Comfort Rooms
  
Explaining the
Euthanasia Procedure

Preparing for Large Animal Euthanasia

Explaining Body Care Options

Condolences

Five Minutes of Grief Education

Assessing Children's Needs

Tips for Supporting Grieving Pet Owners

Helping Clients with Decision Making

Copyright Information

Printing Instructions

Several steps facilitate client-present euthanasias. The categories used here are somewhat arbitrary, but can be used as a guide to assist clients with the process.

Before the procedure, it is helpful to:

• Inform clients that the time to consider euthanasia has arrived

• Educate clients about the methods you use to facilitate the process
  

• Prepare clients for what may happen during the procedure(possible side effects, their own grief manifestations)
  

• Offer clients a choice about being present
  

• Help clients plan the logistical details of euthanasia (where, when, body care, body container, bringing a friend for support)

• Offer reading materials, videotapes, tours

• Ask clients to sign consent forms and pay their bills ahead of time

During the procedure, it is helpful to:

• Ask another veterinary professional to team the case with you

• Prepare the euthanasia site

• Place a catheter

• Offer clients time alone with their pets

• Pronounce the animal dead

• Allow clients to clip fur, remove collars, or carry through with any activity that may be symbolic and meaningful to them

After the procedure, it is helpful to:

• Notify other clients who are waiting for appointments if there are unexpected delays

• Position/prepare the body for viewing, storage, and/or transport

• Escort clients out a side or rear door

• Update client files and records

• Send condolence cards or letters

• Make follow-up telephone calls

• Make referrals to support groups or grief counselors, if appropriate

• Plan and carry out debriefing or stress management strategies

If you tend to get nervous during client-present euthanasias, keep this checklist on a clipboard or inside a client file so you can discreetly refer to it, if needed.