End of Life

“How will I know when it’s time?”

“You’re going to know the answer to that question the best, you know your pet more than anyone.”

“It’s really going to depend on the amount of good days vs. bad days you are seeing. Once you the bad days start to out number the good, that’s a sign.”

“If they aren’t enjoying life anymore then I think that is their way of trying to tell you they are ready to go.”

The loss of a pet can be so uniquely devastating and so unlike the other forms of loss and grief we may experience in life, since as pet owners we usually have some sort of say in when these things happen. Some pets may pass peacefully at home in their sleep, but for the vast majority of people this is a decision they will have to make on their pets behalf. Since I began work as a Veterinarian in 1998, I have assisted countless families through the euthanasia process; from discussing quality of life, to the inevitable end of life and all that comes with it. Often times when clients ask us that question in the exam room, they are not looking for a deadline but rather an assurance that they aren’t making the wrong choice by considering it. Ultimately you need to make the choice that is going to bring you the least amount of regrets; and this process can be guided by your Veterinarian. We usually can never tell you when it’s “time”, but we can help you make a more informed decision about what is right for your pet, and we will support you with whatever choice you decide to make.
-Dr. Mark Hayden

Below we have listed a copy of our Quality of Life rubric, this is a tool that can assist you and your family with determining your pets overall condition & quality of life. Please note that while this scale can be helpful, this is not the only tool that exists for pet owners having to consider quality of life, and end of life care. For more information, scales, and rubrics, we recommended looking at this resource. 

Quality of Life Rubric

“We have made the decision to say goodbye to our beloved pet, what now?” 

The human-animal bond makes our pets an important part of the family, which can make it challenging to know when it’s the right time to say “goodbye”. Our compassionate and caring doctors and staff are available to answer any questions you make have and help guide you through this difficult time.
Pets give us unconditional love and companionship, they fill our lives with joy and laughter. We can return the favor and relieve their pain and suffering through humane euthanasia.

At Valley Veterinary Hospital and Cascade East Animal Clinic, we offer in clinic, as well as house call euthanasia. Our team will work with you and your family to provide you and your beloved pet comfort and dignity during their final moments.

The process consists of two different injectable medications. The first is sedation; we do this to relieve any stress and discomfort. The injection is administered into the muscle and your pet will slowly drift off to sleep; while this is taking effect we will step out to give you time alone with your companion. Some animals think this may sting, but most don’t mind this injection at all.

The second injection is pentobarbital, which is in the anesthetic family, and that is given in the vein. You will see your pet relax and then peacefully pass away. On rare occasions we may see muscle movement or a sudden large breath; this is a reflex of the body shutting down. This injection is not painful, and your pet does not feel anything due to the sedation.

Cremation / After Care

At Valley Veterinary Hospital we offer two different kinds of on site cremation. Your beloved pet’s remains will be handled with compassion and respect and stay in our care until they are ready to be picked up. You have two options for after life care of your pet: private cremation and communal cremation. With a private cremation you will receive ashes back, but if you decide on a communal cremation you will not. If home burial is chosen it is important to follow your local ordinance and laws to protect your companion and the surrounding wildlife and environment. At no additional cost to you, we will provide you with a biodegradable pouch so your pet may be buried directly into the soil.

WAC 246-203-121

(d) A person disposing of a dead animal by burial must place it so that every part is covered by at least three feet of soil; at a location not less than 100 feet from any well, spring, stream or other surface waters; not in a low-lying area subject to seasonal flooding or within a 100-year flood plain; and not in a manner likely to contaminate groundwater.

FAQ:

Is it painful?

No, it is not painful. It’s just like getting a vaccine. While most animals tolerate the pinch of the needle, some will find the sedation to sting initially. This is for a very brief moment, if they feel a sting at all.

Why do you sedate my pet first?

We sedate your pet to alleviate any stress and discomfort they may have, making the process easier on them and you. The final euthanasia injection must be given intravenously, so sedation helps your pet remain still with minimal handling by our staff.

How long does this process take?

The procedure is pretty quick. It will take about 5-10 minutes for the sedation to take effect, and about a minute or two for the final injection.

Can I stay with my pet?

Yes, you can stay with your pet through the whole procedure.

Do I have to stay?

No, some families will stay for the sedation injection, and when their pets drifts off to sleep will step away. Please rest assured that your beloved pet is loved and taken care of in their final moments, and afterwards. There are no right or wrong answers when grieving the loss of a beloved pet. Some will decide to stay for the duration of the appointment, while others will choose to step away after the sedation is given and their companion has fallen asleep. Whatever choice you make, know that our staff will treat your pet with the love and dignity they would give to their own.

What is the difference between a private cremation and a communal cremation?

With a private cremation, your pet is respectfully cremated alone and the ashes are returned to you in an urn. With communal cremation, your pet will be cremated with other pets and we dispose of the ashes.

If I choose a private cremation, when can I pick up my pets cremains?

Your pet will be cremated as soon as possible. After cremation, there are several steps to prepare the ashes for the urn; so because of this it may take between 10-14 business days before your pet is ready to be picked up.

“Euthanasia is not about death, it is about relieving suffering. It is the one of the most difficult choices we can make for them, and it is one of the greatest gifts we can give. ”