The euthanasia process
Euthanasia is a procedure carried out by a veterinarian to allow an animal to pass away without pain or suffering. It generally follows these steps:
- Sedation: Many vets administer a sedative first, which helps the animal relax and enter a sleepy state. This allows for a peaceful, stress-free transition.
- Euthanasia injection: A high dose of pentobarbital, a barbiturate, is given to quickly induce unconsciousness and stop the heart within seconds or minutes. The animal feels no pain and simply drifts into a deep sleep before passing.
- Final moments: During the process, the animal may release the bladder or bowels or take a few deep reflexive breaths. These are physical responses and do not involve suffering.
- Aftercare: Many veterinary clinics offer cremation or burial services. Some people prefer to take their pet home for a private burial or to a pet cemetery.
Euthanasia at home vs. at the clinic
An important decision is whether to say goodbye at home or at the clinic. Home euthanasia allows for a peaceful farewell in a familiar, stress-free environment — ideal for animals who get anxious at the vet. Some professionals offer this service directly, while others may refer you to specialists.
For my cats, Garfield and Obi, I chose to take them to the clinic. Both were comfortable with car rides and had a strong bond with our trusted vet. They didn’t get stressed there, so I knew they’d be at peace. With my dogs, though, I’d likely choose an at-home farewell.
The most important thing is to talk to your vet and decide what’s best based on your companion’s needs. If your clinic doesn’t offer at-home euthanasia but you feel it’s the best option, there are specialized services that can help.
When is the right time? The quality-of-life scale
Letting go is often the hardest part. Many veterinarians use a tool called the Quality of Life Scale, developed by Dr. Alice Villalobos. This scale scores various aspects of your pet’s well-being on a scale from 0 to 10. A total score of 35 or more suggests quality of life is still acceptable; if it’s lower, it may be time to consider euthanasia.
Quality of Life Scale:
- Pain: Is the pain managed with medication or therapies?
- Hunger: Is your pet eating enough? Can nutrition be maintained with supplements?
- Hydration: Is your pet well hydrated? Are subcutaneous fluids needed?
- Hygiene: Can your pet stay clean and dry? Are they comfortable if incontinent?
- Happiness: Does your pet still enjoy favorite activities? Do they interact?
- Mobility: Can they move on their own? Do they need help, and is it manageable?
- More good days than bad: Do good days outnumber the bad ones?
In addition to this scale, the “Five Favorite Things” method can help. Make a list of your pet’s five favorite activities. If they can no longer enjoy at least three, it may be a sign their quality of life has declined more than is fair to them.
Planning ahead
Making decisions while grieving can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s helpful to consider a few things in advance:
- Burial or cremation? Would you like to take your pet home or prefer cremation? Many clinics work with specialized crematories.
- Private or communal cremation? With private cremation, you receive your pet’s ashes. With communal cremation, you do not.
- Cost of the procedure: Ask about costs ahead of time so you can prepare without added stress.
- Emotional support and transportation: Will you be able to drive? Would you like someone to go with you?
- Keepsakes: You may want a clay paw print or a lock of fur as a keepsake. Some clinics include this as part of the service, but it’s good to ask.
Preparing these details in advance allows you to focus on being there for your pet in their final moments, without last-minute decisions or distractions.
My personal experience: Garfield and Obi
I recently had to make this decision twice in a short time — with my beloved Garfield and Obi-Wan Catnobi.
Garfield, at 14, had kidney failure. He was still himself until the end, but his body was giving out. He wasn’t eating, had lost weight, was confused, and was looking for water in places he never had before. That morning, while we were in the garden, our vet called to offer an earlier appointment, but I decided to wait. I wanted Garfield to have one last moment in the sun, feeling the warmth on his golden belly. We had tried everything, and it was time.
Obi was only 10 and had been with us just four months. When we adopted him, we specifically asked for a dental check because of our experience with Garfield. We were told he had a little tartar. But when he arrived, it was clear something was wrong. He was underweight, drooling, had poor coat condition, terrible breath, and almost all his teeth were rotten. After several surgeries, treatments, and a biopsy, we got the truth: an aggressive carcinoma was destroying his face. Despite it all, he was affectionate and sweet — but he was suffering. We made the painful decision to let him go.
Both fell asleep in my arms, purring as I kissed them goodbye. It was the greatest act of love I could offer. I’ll never forget the emptiness I felt carrying the empty carrier back to the car.
Final thoughts
Euthanasia will never be an easy decision, but it is a final act of love. If you’re facing this moment, know you are not alone. Talk to your vet, evaluate your companion’s quality of life, and trust that you are making the most compassionate choice.
Your pet has been part of your life, your family, your confidant. They’ve shared unconditional love every day. The least we can do is ensure their final moments are filled with care, peace, and dignity.
Be kind to yourself. Allow yourself to feel, to cry, to remember. Grieving for a pet is just as real as grieving any loved one. If the pain feels too heavy, please talk to someone.
I want to give heartfelt thanks to my wonderful vets, Susana and Alba, for their constant support. They’ve been with me through some of the hardest times, always with compassion and care. Special thanks to Susana for fighting for my boys, and to Alba for being by my side even during her maternity leave. I’ll be forever grateful.