Medical Care
Compassionate Care and Guidance
Losing a pet can be a very painful, emotional experience. At Minnetonka Animal Hospital, we understand how important your companion is to you and your family. Throughout this difficult time, know that you are not alone. Our team is here to support you and your pet throughout the decision-making process.
Knowing When it’s Time
There may be instances when your veterinarian can make a definitive recommendation regarding euthanasia. However, other situations may require a decision from you based on our medical prognosis and your pet’s behavior.
The following indicate your companion is no longer experiencing a high quality of life:
- Frequent vomiting or diarrhea
- He or she has stopped eating or will only eat by force
- Frequent incontinence
- Loss of interest in all or most favorite activities
- Chronic labored breathing or coughing
- Unable to stand or walk independently
What to Expect
Euthanasia is often a two-step process. First, a sedative is administered to make your pet calm and comfortable. Then a medication is injected so your pet is no longer aware of the end-of-life experience. The procedure is fairly quick and is similar to what you would feel when undergoing general anesthesia. Our team will review the entire process with you from start to finish and can help you navigate any decisions that must be made along the way.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions about the end-of-life process. At Minnetonka Animal Hospital, we provide the compassionate care that you, your pet, and your family deserve.
Online Resources
A very helpful resource during this difficult time is the Pet Loss Website. This website includes information about local Pet Loss Support Services, including counselors, hotlines, support groups, cemeteries and crematoriums. Other websites for pet loss and grief support include: Cornell University and the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement.
Written resources for Adults
- Goodbye Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone Who Has Ever Lost a Pet by G. Kowalski
- Loving, Caring, Letting Go Without Guilt: A Compassionate but Straightforward Look at Pet Euthanasia by D. Steinback
Written resources for Children
Children especially have a difficult time during this process. Some books that have been recommended to assist children through the loss of a pet are:
- A Special Place for Charlee by Debbie Morehead
- The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst
- When A Pet Dies by Fred Rogers
- I'll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm
- Visit Children and Pet loss for more resources for your child.
- Coping with Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet by M. Anderson
