Introducing a Bond-centred Euthanasia

Pre-Euthanasia Consultation

A study into the longevity of dogs in the UK showed that over 86%* of confirmed deaths were by euthanasia.

* The veterinary Journal Vol 198 Issue 3

It may not always be appropriate to call an end-of-life discussion a pre-euthanasia consultation as hospice care may still be effective.

Additionally, there will be occasions when a pre-euthanasia consultation isn’t appropriate because it would compromise the pet’s welfare. If hospice care isn’t appropriate, then euthanising the pet may be the only option. In these instances you would still need to obtain the owner’s consent (if possible).

Adopting a proactive approach to end-of-life discussions can alleviate any concerns or misconceptions your client may have. Taking time and allowing your clients the space for end-of-life discussions and decisions can have a positive effect on how your client reacts to their loss.

However, it is important that the pet’s welfare is considered. It may become necessary to euthanise a pet without a pre-euthanasia appointment.

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Pre-Euthanasia Appointment Discussion

The objective of a successful pre-euthanasia appointment is to ensure your client fully understands their options, including whether euthanasia is appropriate.

During the appointment you should discuss:

Where and when the euthanasia will be completed? For example, home euthanasia is becoming more popular.

Who is to be present? Some owners may want their children or other pets to be present.

Who will be completing the euthanasia? Does the owner want a particular vet to complete the procedure?

Will sedation be used?

Does the owner wish to hold the pet?

Should collar or lead be removed?

What memorial options are available?

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Other Discussions

Paperwork, Payment and Aftercare Options

There are certain procedures that a client needs to complete before their pet is euthanised.

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Cremation Consent

Aftercare Options

Payment and Crematorium Discussion

Preparing the Client

Discussions around Expectations during Euthanasia

During the pre-euthanasia consultation you have the opportunity to inform your client what to expect on the day.

You should inform your client on any special arrangements your practice may have in place.

Special arrangements to consider:

Will a member of the veterinary team greet the pet and the owner in the car park?
Is there a separate entrance that avoids the public waiting room?
Will the owner be able to sit with their pet once he/she has passed?

Discussions around Who Will Attend the Euthanasia

This is your opportunity to agree with the owner who will be attending.

Does your client want other family members to be present?
Are any of the family members children?
Will any other pets be present?

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Other Questions

Creating a Suitable Environment for Euthanasia

A euthanasia is a clinical procedure. However, that isn't what the owner wants or expects. More and more owners are demanding a different experience; one that honours the life of their beloved pet.

You can help to create this experience by looking at the setting where the euthanasia will take place. Practices, with the space, are creating dedicated bereavement suites to conduct the pre-euthanasia discussion and the euthanasia procedure.

A bereavement suite differs from other consultation rooms through the use of:

Soft furnishings
Tissues
Adjustable lighting
Candles (health and safety permitting)

You may consider playing gentle music. You should inform your clients how to change or switch off the music.

Ideally, clients should be able to enter and exit the bereavement suite without passing through the waiting room. Nobody wants to wait in or walk through a busy reception when they are upset.

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Preparing the Team for the Euthanasia Procedure

How your team communicates with clients on the day of the euthanasia will have a significant impact on how you make your clients feel.

It only takes a small mistake to change your client’s perception of your practice. For example, when your client arrives at the practice, your receptionist should be expecting them and know why they are there.

Good preparation should include briefing the entire team on all euthanasia appointments, who is attending and when the appointment is scheduled and most importantly the pet’s name.

For all purposes the client should be treated as a VIP. Once the appointment starts there shouldn’t be any reason for interruptions.

Use a do not disturb sign on the bereavement suite door, silence or switch off mobile phones and ask a colleague to take messages for any other calls.

Many clients use a battery operated candle* on the reception desk as a signal that a euthanasia process is underway.

* Safer than a naked flame.

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