Dogs do not know they are being put to sleep. They can react to pain, nervous energy, the injection, or have muscle spasms. The sedative makes them feel calm. It is unlikely they feel pain. Some dogs know their time is near and look to their people for comfort. Stay with your dog reassuring them. Once drugs are given, in 10 seconds they take effect. Your dog takes a deep breath, becomes weak, and lapses into a deep sleep. Don’t be surprised to see breathing after movement ceases. This is normal as the body shuts down. The vet closely monitors breathing and heart rate to determine time of death.
Post-Euthanasia Procedures
Once euthanasia is finished, the postmortem period begins. The process is almost completely painless. Euthanasia is a two part process: A vet gives an IV which is usually painless. The pet owner decides when it’s time to put their pet down. The vet ensures the decision is best for the pet and owner. After euthanasia, vets prepare pets for cremation or the pet cemetery based on the owner’s wishes. The body is wrapped respectfully.
The vet confirms death by listening to the heart. They let you know your dog passed and likely leave the room to give you a moment. They cover your dog’s body then contact animal services to take custody of the body. Animal services disposes of the body properly, involving burial, cremation, rendering or composting. It’s important the body is treated respectfully according to regulations.
Aftercare Options
Many veterinary hospitals work with companies that can arrange for individual cremation (and, in some cases, burial). Some owners will opt for communal cremation (sometimes called group or mass cremation). In most cases, the cremation/burial company can pick up your dog’s remains directly from the hospital.
Following euthanasia, your veterinarian or veterinary nurse or technician will help to gently clean your pet if necessary, and remove any intravenous cannula that was placed. Then, depending on whether you are burying your pet at home, having your pet cremated, or are still undecided, a few different things may happen.
Euthanasia happens quickly. Within seconds, your dog will become unconscious, experiencing no pain or suffering. Breathing will slow down and then stop over the next several seconds. Cardiac arrest will soon follow, resulting in death. Your vet can arrange for private cremation or burial. You may choose to have your dog’s body returned to you for burial at home.
Coping with Loss
People often struggle after euthanizing a pet. These strong feelings come from losing a close companion. If you must euthanize your dog, staying with them, offering comfort is important. After your dog passes, the vet will respectfully prepare them for burial or cremation per your wishes.
Explain loss to children in a way they understand. Make room for emotions when grieving. Keep good memories of your pet alive. If aggressive, sick with no treatment options, quality of life diminished, euthanasia may be best. Discuss all options with your vet. Euthanasia rapidly ends suffering. An accidental insulin overdose needs immediate vet care. When no options left, vets compassionately end incurable suffering.