Although this is a very personal decision to make, your veterinarian and your family and friends can assist and support you. Consider that quality of life is important for pets and people alike. You should base your decision not only on what is best for your pet, but also what is best for you and your family.

You may need to consider euthanasia if:
· your pet can no longer do the things they once enjoyed doing
· your pet is unable to respond to you as they used to
· your pet experiences more pain than pleasure
· your pet is terminally ill or critically injured
· the financial or emotional cost of treatment exceeds your means
· your pet has become vicious, dangerous, or unmanageable

Rarely will you be required to make an immediate decision in this regard. Examine and evaluate with your veterinarian you pet's condition. Your veterinary can help you decipher the factors of your pet's chances for recovery, potential disabilities, long-term problems, medical options and possible outcomes. If you don't understand any part of your pets diagnosis, have it re-explained so you are able to review all the facts and make an informed decision.

If your pet is healthy and your considering euthanasia consider other options. Sometimes economic, emotional, space limitations or changes in lifestyles may force an owner to consider it as an option. Instead, find other solutions, such as an alternative home, so that euthanasia is a last resort.

Family members generally are aware of your pet's problems/condition. But it is important that this be discussed with all of your family members, especially children. Even if you've reached a decision, informing them of the information received from the veterinarian is very helpful to ease in understanding why they must deal with the loss of their pet. Children respect straightforward, truthful, and simple answers. Allowing them a chance to discuss their feelings will help them deal with their painful loss.

The process of euthanasia is painless. Veterinarian's first administer a tranquilizer to relax your pet. A death-inducing injection with follow and your pet will quickly go into a quiet irreversible unconsciousness.

Saying goodbye is an important part of managing the natural and health feelings of grief, sorrow and loss. Your pet is an important part of your life and it's natural to feel you're losing a friend, you are. Once your decision is made, it is healthy to make an opportunity for those you love to say goodbye to your pet. Grieving is a process that comes with many signs. Not everyone experiences them all, but feeling sad, angry, guilty or depressed is common when dealing with the death of a loved one. Others might deny all together their hurt feelings. Discussing your feelings together with your family and friends can ease the pain and help the healing process. Death is an inevitable part of the life cycle for all creatures, but its impact can be met with understanding and compassion. Try to remember all the good times with your pet, this will help your family to realize that your pet was worthy of your love and grief.

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