Euthanasia is not an immoral decision, but it is a gift which when given at the right time can greatly reduce the suffering of your pets. However, many people get stuck in the guilt for way too long and because of their sentiments cannot part their ways with their pets.

Knowing what is right and when the time is right is crucial to giving pet euthanasia.

At Zen Dog veterinary clinic, you ask the vets to give your pet euthanasia at home where they feel the most comfortable. Dr. Ray has taken special Euthanasia training to gain the skills so that the process is made as easy for the pets as possible and even for their owners. Servicing in New York, Queens, and many other places, they understand how difficult it is for you to lose your beloved best friend.

Checklist for measuring the quality of life on a scale

The decision to euthanize involves a lot of emotional factors, which cannot be measured on a scale. However, the following pointers can help you in determining if your pet has lost quite a lot on the quality of life scale and is suffering too much:

1. Eating and drinking habits:
   • If your pet has become a picky eater suddenly or is losing weight, you can take them to the vet to know the reason behind the sudden change.
   • Your pet can also vomit or gag at the sight of food.
   • Your pet simply walks away from food.
   • Hydration is very important for pets and if the pet is not drinking their usual amounts and is actively vomiting or having loose stools, get them evaluated.
2. Level of pain:
   • Forced respiration, limping, and panting even at rest are some signs of severe pain that your pet is in.
   • If you accidentally touch the painful part, your pet might snap.
   • The current pain medication is not providing any relief.
   • Abnormal posture and trembling at rest should warrant an evaluation.
3. Activity level:
   • If there is any pain or chronic illness, the activity level in the pet will be lower than normal.
   • Sudden change in regular activities, falling during movements, severe limping, and inability to move without assistance should not be ignored.
   • Arthritis is a common cause of immobility and can be treated with physical therapy and giving pain medication.
4. General behavior and happiness:
   • When the pet starts to behave in a way that is normal for their usual behavior pattern, it gets alarming.
   • If they are not greeting you, or trying to live alone than usual, you should check out with their vet.
   • Sometimes, they lose interest in life and seem dull, not being able to keep them alert and respond and feel depressed.
5. Hygiene factor:
   • Non-healing wounds and skin irritation needs treatment.
   • Ill pets usually fail to groom themselves as they lack the energy to do so.

You know your pet better and if you feel they are suffering too much, you can help them ease their pain. Most of the time medical intervention can improve their quality of life but if nothing seems to be working, you can check with the vet for euthanasia.

Many trained veterinary doctors in Westchester can help you in taking this hard decision for your pet. Do reach out to them for all the support you need.

You can be there for your pet to comfort them in their last moments and say your final goodbyes.