Coping with the Fear and Doubt of Euthanasia

If you are lucky enough to have a special bond with a dog or cat, you’ve probably pondered the fact that their time on Earth will likely be up long before your own. We invite animals into our lives for companionship and to fill our homes with joy and unconditional love. As years pass, we watch them grow, often from puppies or kittens into mature adults. Inevitably, they reach their golden years and, like all living beings, their bodies begin to fail. As we watch their quality of life deteriorate, euthanasia can become a viable option, but it’s an option often filled with fear and doubt.FearThere are many different kinds of a fear a person considering euthanasia for a sick and aging pet can experience. There is the fear of not having a best friend and companion by your side to share this life with. There is the fear that the passing of that special pet will serve as a painful reminder of your own mortality. Worst of all, there is the fear that the choice you are making, whether to euthanize or not, is the wrong choice.Unfortunately there is no panacea that addresses all of the fears associated with euthanasia. What is important is that you put the welfare of your beloved pet above any personal fears. Consider how much chronic pain and discomfort they are living with daily. Consult a veterinarian to determine their quality-of-life and to discuss strategies to improve it. Ultimately, setting your pet’s welfare as the focus will lead you to a decision based in love and compassion that should quell some of these fears.DoubtAlong with fear, the decision to euthanize can be filled with doubt. You doubt yourself leading up to the decision or you may feel pangs of regret having made to choice to end the life of a beloved animal. These feelings may be impossible to avoid, but understanding all the facts and knowing your options can help lead you to a decision you can best live with.At Gentle Journey of Scottsdale, we specialize in helping devoted pet parents navigate these difficult choices. In some cases, palliative pet services can improve quality of life. In others, euthanasia is the best option. In either case, we can help you with all the information you need to make this difficult choice. Give us a call at 602-332-7757 or visit us online to learn more about our services.