The euthanasia process itself is designed to be as quick and peaceful for your pet as possible.
Ideally, this is a two-step procedure. First, an IV should be established, and flushed with saline solution, to make certain that it is inserted properly in the vein. Otherwise, it can be very painful, when the solution is injected, usually in the animal’s front or back leg. A sedative should first be administered, relaxing the pet, and literally putting it to sleep. Then the second stage should be administered. It is a very fast-acting medicine that stops the heart.
When the veterinarian is ready to begin the procedure an assistant will usually be asked to help hold your pet. After shaving the area, the IV is inserted into the vein. Rarely, a particular vet will want to skip this first stage. Almost all advocate and routinely perform the two stage process. Once the euthanasia solution is given, the animal’s muscles will relax and the heart will stop beating. Most owners are surprised at how quickly death comes — in seconds.
Based on our years of experience with many thousands of traumatic cases, we very strongly recommend that a sedative be administered first. Discuss this well in advance with your vet, and insist on it! If he/she still refuses to do this (and that is uncommon) we advise going to another practitioner. It is best to avoid taking any chances, however remote, in the precious last moments of your pet’s life.
In some instances, the muscles may contract or relax for a few seconds after the heart has stopped. As muscles relax, the animal may void urine and/or stool. Other involuntary contractions may occur, such as the animal appearing to gasp, or moving the extremities. But it is important to realize that this is strictly a muscle reflex, and the life is already gone. Also, the eyes may not close. Try to remember that your pet is not aware of any of these things, as they happen after death has occurred. Most veterinarians will ask if you would like to spend a few moments alone with your pet.
Some pet owners initially think they will be more comfortable if they do not observe their pet’s final moments, and would rather be in the waiting room (or elsewhere) during the procedure. But bear in mind that those who opt for not being present often later feel a terrible sense of guilt about this.
If possible, discuss with your veterinarian or his or her office staff before the appointment is made how euthanasia is performed at that particular office. Your pet’s health, temperament, and your preferences should each be considered when making this decision. For very small, young or old, or exotic animals, there may be some differences from the procedure just described. Be sure that you are comfortable with the procedure that you and your veterinarian choose. Again, you may need to find another veterinarian to do the procedure the way you prefer.
~ taken from The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement
