Recently, we have been discussing the care of elderly animals with the goal of ensuring that these valued family members remain a part of your household for as long as possible.
Yet, it begins to become increasingly clear that, notwithstanding the efforts of both your veterinarian and you, the signs are emerging that the physiological functions are declining at a more rapid rate and your beloved pets is visibly suffering.
The ailments that would have been overcome quickly, not lastly with your veterinarian’s therapeutic input, are now getting the upper hand.
The appetite is not what it used to be; mobility is reduced considerably; lethargy steps in.
Then follows exhibitions of excruciating and uncontrollable pain which is defying medical interventions, in addition to mental and incurable physical deterioration.
Worst, the realization is dawning on the family that a heart wrenching decision has to be made. One that you and your veterinarian must now confront in determining the way forward.
Let me emphasise that while, in all likelihood, your vet would have known and treated the now ailing pet during both the good times and emergencies, all final decisions must be made by the family. Believe me when I say that the animal’s suffering also impacts on your medical caregiver. Some veterinarians will even advise that you seek a second opinion.
That is a quite valid course of action. It gives you the satisfaction of having explored all options.
In your deliberations, three possible decisions will emerge:
1. Allow the pet to receive medication to alleviate pain until it passes on, knowing that this is delaying the inevitable (death).
2. Discontinue the use of all medication and the animal will expire; not immediately but quicker.
3. Agree to EUTHANSIA. This activity may be defined as placing the animal into a condition of eternal, irrecoverable forever sleep, in a humane manner – actively making death simple, quick and painless.
The procedures are designed to prevent fear and distress. The exact method will be clearly, but gently, explained to the family members, (preferably not the young children), in advance of the intervention. 
All veterinarians would have been trained and are best equipped to ensure that the animal does not suffer in its last moments. The Veterinary Oath includes a commitment to alleviate animal suffering, and euthanasia is recognized as a method for achieving this. His/her primary aim is humane treatment during the procedure. With utmost care and compassion, your veterinarian will ensure that the process is brief, peaceful and painless and that the final moments are free of distress.
As responsible pet owners, it is our duty to consider the well-being of our pets and make choices that honor their love and loyalty. Next week, we will discuss how to cope with the grief and the other emotional challenges experienced by the family on the loss of a pet that had given unconditional devotion over its lifetime.
