Euthanasia

Making the decision to say goodbye to your pet is one of the toughest you’ll ever make. Pets provide us with unconditional love, friendship and comfort, so it is normal to have intense or conflicting emotions when it comes to euthanasia. At Otter Vets we’re here for you and your pet for every step of your journey together.

What happens during euthanasia?

• Before your animal is put to sleep, the vet will ask you to sign a consent form. Once this is done and you are ready, we will begin the process.
• Euthanasia is usually carried out by injecting an overdose of anaesthetic solution into the vein of the front leg, although the injection can be given to other areas of the body as well. In some case’s the vet may discuss your option of your pet having sedation first.
• Your pet will be held by a nurse and a small patch of fur is shaved off.
• We will place a catheter into the vein of the front leg (We may take your animal in the prep room to do this but will bring him/her straight back to you).
• When you are ready we will administer the injection.
• Unconsciousness follows within seconds, often before the injection is finished.
• The heart will stop beating. It may take a little longer if your pet is very ill or has poor circulation.
• In the few minutes after your pet has passed you may see twitching, or hear gasps of air, these are not signs of life; they are reflexes that naturally occur when a pet passes away
• The eyes usually stay open and the bladder sometimes empties.

Can I stay with my pet during euthanasia?

This is entirely your choice, but we often hear that it is comforting for owners to know that they were with their pet at the end. We will do everything we can to look after and comfort your pet as they pass away.

Euthanasia- Price can range from £173 (cat) from £191 (dog)

What happens after euthanasia?

After your pet has passed away, we will ask what you would like to do with their body. You can choose:

• Cremation – This is communal cremation with other animals.
• Prices range from £60 (cat) to £300 depending on the size of dog.
• Individual Cremation- This is a guaranteed individual cremation, completely your animal and only your animal’s ashes will be returned to you.
• Prices range from £235 (cat) to £300 depending on the size of dog and the vessel/ casket you would like. A supplement fee may apply. Please speak to a member of the team for more information and casket options.
• Home Burial- You are able to take you pet home to bury.

If you are undecided, we know this is a very difficult time, we are happy for you to go home and leave your pet with us, while you consider the options.