|
In most cases of euthanasia, an intravenous (in the
vein) injection of an anesthetic agent is done.
Other than the prick of the needle into the vein, euthanasia
is a quite painless process.
Euthanasia solutions are formulated to be an actual
overdose of anesthesia. Thus, the patient undergoes
the anesthetic phase first, and then the overdose stops
the heart, and the breathing. In all, the procedure
takes less than 5 minutes. Some veterinarians
dose the anesthetic agent separately from the euthanasia
solution, which works much in the same way.
In very small animals like ferrets or birds, allowing
them to breath an anesthetic agent first to quiet the
pet, and then following with an injection allows for
a more peaceful end.
In some cases of heart failure, or poor blood circulation,
the patient may not carry the euthanasia solution fast
enough through their system, and a hallucination phase
may occur. In these cases, "crying out"
from the patient may be misinterpreted as experiencing
"pain". In actuality, the patient is
disoriented or delirious, and the vocalization is an
expression of a state of disorientation.
When all is said and done, the pet's body must now
be dealt with. Your veterinarian can help you
decide what to do at this point. Options vary,
but local service providers in your area (perhaps utilized
by your own veterinarian), can provide cremation with
or without ashes returned, or burial in a personal plot.
Local restrictions may allow for burial in your own
yard dependant upon your area. Returned ashes
may be spread or buried, or displayed in an urn of your
choosing.
When possible, asking your veterinarian what options
you have prior to euthanasia can help prevent unnecessary
decision making during the time of your grieving your
pet's loss.
|
