Deciding to have your dog put to sleep is a tough decision for pet owners. It leaves many individuals with guilt and remorse and wondering if the process is painful for their beloved pets. However, it may be less of a strained experience if you understand what is involved in the process and what to expect. Below are some basic facts about the procedure and what it entails.
What Is Euthanasia?
Euthanasia is intentionally ending a life to eliminate pain and suffering. In animals, euthanasia is called “putting to sleep” or “putting down.” Usually, this procedure is done when there is little or no hope of recovery from an illness or injury. One of the main worries of a pet parent is that their dog will feel pain when put down. With this concern, many owners struggle with making the final call. While mourning a pet is already overwhelming, we’re here to reduce your worries and put your mind at ease.
Is Euthanasia Painful for Dogs?
Many people believe euthanasia stops the heart, causing something similar to a heart attack. However, this is far from true. While putting a dog to sleep can vary considerably from the animal, where you have the procedure done, and the decisions the owner makes, the most common method is performed via intravenous injection of a drug called pentobarbital.
During the dog euthanasia process, a mild sedative might be administered first, allowing your pet to become extremely relaxed and sleepy. At A Peaceful Return To Eden, our combination injection offers pain relief and sedation, administered into the rump area intramuscularly. The effect usually takes about three to five minutes, and then your dog will be comfortable and in a pain-free state. Finally, the euthanasia drug is injected into your dog’s vein, and within seconds your dog will become unconscious and will not feel any pain or suffering. Breathing will slow and stop over the next few seconds, and cardiac arrest will follow. Typically, a peaceful death occurs within 30 seconds of the injection.
What to Expect After the Euthanasia?
After your dog is confirmed deceased, you will have a few minutes to say your final goodbyes. It’s essential to be aware that your dog’s body may release urine, feces, or other bodily fluids upon death because of the relaxation of muscles. Your dog's eyes will also remain open. Sometimes, you will see muscle spasms or hear air leave your dog’s lungs. These are all normal and occur after death.
We recognize this is an incredibly emotional time, and at A Peaceful Return To Eden, we know what you’re going through. We provide a safe environment for you to grieve and encourage you to take the time you need. Our team offers a hair clipping and paw print after the passing, keepsakes you can take home while you wait for the more permanent options you may have selected.
The Dog Euthanasia Process With A Peaceful Return To Eden
We do everything to make the dog euthanasia process as peaceful as possible. When you work with A Peaceful Return To Eden, never wonder if euthanasia is painful for dogs. We ensure your pet is comfortable and safe and remains pain-free throughout the whole ordeal. If you’re interested in learning more about our services, connect with us at (888) 738-3884.