1. Euthanasia:the practical aspects Or what not to do

2. Preparing the client Start early: have a realistic idea of lifespan Tactfully find out what clients believe Timing is very important Offer alternatives to be acted on or eliminated until euthanasia remains Owner may spend time with pet alone

3. Explain what will happen Describe the procedure Explain what options are available to the client: Owner present, sedation, etc Discuss what the owner wishes to do with the body Discuss payment details Consent form

4. During the procedure There should be no negative assciations formed Appropriate attitude Wear normal clothes Use a different room Keep client involved It is very important that the animal is not distressed

5. After the injection Do not allow the animal to collapse in front of the owner If anticipate problems with the i.v. preplace a catheter, use sedation or consider i.p injection Stay with the owners The vet will check the heart and pronounce death Offer the owner the chance to take the collar and tag (even if they decline, save it)

6. Points to remember Animals usually pass urine/faeces, be prepared Stage 2 Apneustic gasping Involuntary movement Be discrete, owners are embarrassed if their animals make a mess Handle the animal gently even though it is dead

7. What should you say? Show empathy, touch can help Reassure them: the animal felt no pain, is now at peace,it is normal to be upset (owners often cry, even men) Listen to them Do not rush them Allow them time on their own with the animal if they wish

8. Disposal of the body Establish beforehand what the clients wishes are Options: home burial, cremation, p.m etc Do not put the animal in a black plastic bag in front of the client Try and be tactful about freezers Be careful with labelling of bodies for individual cremations in particular

9. Afterwards It is appropriate to phone, send a card or letter (but get it right!) Try and personalise standard greeting cards Be available if the client needs to talk