Euthanasia…..was this normal?(not for the weak of heart!)

[madcity_mike]

I'm so sorry you went through this I agree with everyone to focus on your wonderful memories! BUT... I would definately mention this to your vet. I assumed only vets did euthanizing and the techs were there to assist. I am SO sorry in your last moments together you had to endure that type of emotional heartache.

[PlainJane]

I could not read everyone's posts (sorry) as I have just been able to finally deal with this part of a dog's life myself. I'm mellowing with age and understand .

What you experienced was NOT normal, and I hope you don't ever have to deal with it again.

My vet was so wonderful (and old himself), and knew I was a FREAK about the whole situation. He made each of my experiences a very "natural" one and very calming.... and gave me baby food on a fat popsicle stick (that's what it looked like) to feed my dog while he administered the shot (they were always HAPPIEST when eating a treat). He did this with each of my dogs. They really didn't even know they were getting a shot (not even a little flinch).

You live and learn.... and live for your wonderful memories , and now you'll know what to do next time. What a wonderful long life your baby had.

[MySweetDoodle]

I am so very sorry. Losing a beloved pet, a member of your family, is one of the most difficult things we go through in life. It is never easy - but what you went through is definitely not normal. And when you are feeling stronger, you really should let that vet practice know how you feel - it might save someone else from having to go through what you went through. I also would NOT be going back to them.

I have had to put down a few pets over the years, and each and every time, whether it was a dog or a horse, my vets have been wonderfully compassionate and caring (even crying with us). It was never traumatic. Sedatives were given and then the final shot. Each time was totally peaceful and quiet.

Here is something that has helped me during times like this; I hope that it may help you a little too.

When the time comes and we know that we have to say goodbye to our beloved pets, our ultimate gift of love to them is when we take away their pain and make it our own. We *release* them to the Rainbow Bridge and the pain becomes ours in our grief.

[Sweet Sadie]

I'm so sorry for the experience you had. As others said, remember the great life you had together.

I have had several dogs put down over the years and they calmly drifted off, it was a quiet end. I had a wonderful vet, who has since retired. I would say something about this to your vet so it never happens again.

My heart goes out to you as we all know how hard it is when the time comes.

[Mud]

Judi, we all feel your pain as we all have been, or will be, at that place with our beloved dogs one day. What you experienced was not in the least bit normal. Last year both my standard poodles were euthanased and for both it was a tranquil experience.

Here, on Norfolk Island, we only have one vet, she's young and a gem. Our male standard had been given chemo for his cancer and it extended his life for 5 good months. When I decided that he'd had enough she came to our house. He, Simon, by this time could not stand and we fed him a lump of cheese and a bowl of ice cream and then I held his head and my husband stroked his body as she gave him an injection which worked very quickly and without any stress to our precious boy.

When his sister's turn came almost 12 months later it was done in the vet surgery immediately I saw the results of an xray which showed tumors almost filling her lungs. This time she stood and I wrapped my arms around her and talked to her as the needle was given. She wagged her tail, looked up at me and then closed her eyes and went limp. That is how it was and is how it always should be.

I might add that a beautiful sympathy card was sent to us from the vet after Simon died. She'd got to know him pretty well as she administered his chemo and as she gave him his final injection she shed as many tears as we did.

[dustt]

I am so sorry - I know it's hard but try to remember the good that he brought to your life for those many years. I agree that perhaps a letter to the vet first would enable you to eloquently state your feelings without forgetting everything you'd like to say. Our thoughts are with you during these difficult times. We have planted a tree in our yard for each of our lost pets - the tree reminds us that their impact lasts long beyond their short lives. Hang in there we are thinking about you!!

[cissy k]

So sorry for your loss and the way that it happened. Hugs to you!

[curlygirl]

Judi, I too am so sorry for your loss. I am especially am sorry that such a sad situation was handled so unprofessional. That is just awful an unacceptable. I would absolutely let them know when you are able.

When it was time to put my lab Caroline down two years ago my vet came to my home with an assistant. I laid down with her on her bed with my arms around her. They gave her a sedative and when I was ready the injection. It was very peaceful. They then waited outside for me to spend time with her. Again, when I was ready they took her for me to their office so she could be picked up for cremation. The vets office then sent me a beautiful red rose in a bud vase and a nice card.

My thoughts are with you.