Ethical and Practical Considerations Associated with Companion Animal Euthanasia

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Companion animal euthanasia is a common procedure in veterinary medicine, intended to end the life of an animal. Veterinarians must determine if the request for euthanasia is warranted or if other factors exist making the decision to euthanize inappropriate or objectionable. If euthanasia is a reasonable course of action, veterinarians must then decide when to euthanize, how to perform the procedure, and other details to protect the mental well-being of all stakeholders. If euthanasia is not elected, veterinarians must also decide how best to support their patient and client. ABSTRACT: The reality that euthanasia in veterinary practice can end animal suffering but can also be used in circumstances that do not serve an animal’s interest, can be a benefit for animals, and a burden for veterinary professionals, respectively. This essay addresses ethical and practical concerns associated with companion animal euthanasia, including defining euthanasia, why and when euthanasia should be performed, applying euthanasia in practice, contemporary methods, aftercare of deceased animals, and the consequences of euthanasia and dysthanasia for animals, animal owners, and veterinary professionals. We contend that an intention-based definition of euthanasia should be strictly applied in veterinary practice and that practitioners view euthanasia decisions as requests that can (and in some cases should) be declined, rather than as mandates.