Q and A
Q- Under what circumstances is a pet/animal qualified to be euthanised?
A- Euthanasia is recommended for pets/aminals that suffers severe infections or illnesses such as cancer, incurable diseases or signs of severe organ system dysfunction non-responsive to treatment such as gastrointestinal, respiratory or nervous system issues etc. It also applies when complications arise from surgeries and that the pet cannot be saved in time.
Source- http://www.ahc.umn.edu/rar/euthanasia.html
Q- What are the requirements to euthanise a pet or an animal?
A- The following is a list of reasons that I consider to be valid reasons for having a dog or cat or other animal euthanased. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list.
The animal is suffering from a terminal illness that medical or surgical therapy can no longer relieve or help:
The relief of pain and suffering is probably the most common reason owners have for euthanasing a beloved pet. Because animals are now living long enough (just like people) to die slowly by degrees from chronic, incurable, sometimes-painful illnesses like cancer, renal disease and heart failure, it is becoming very common for owners to have to make this choice about what is kindest for their terminally ill pets.
The animal is suffering from a severe illness whereby survival and recovery is possible, but of minimal likelihood, and the animal is likely to go through significant pain and suffering while attempts are made to correct the problem:
Because animals, unlike humans, are unable to give any consent about the procedures that are performed on them, performing a large, painful surgical procedure on an animal or exposing that animal to long periods of severe illness, hospitalization stress and repeated medical procedures, in the remote chance that there will be recovery, must be weighed up very carefully.
The pet has a severe, chronic disease where death from the disease itself is unlikely, but drugs are no longer helping the pet with its pain or mobility.
There are certain chronic disease conditions whereby the animal is unlikely to die as a result of the condition per se, but is in such severe, chronic, continuous pain or so debilitated (e.g. unable to move very far, unable to stand up) or so unable to maintain its hygiene and dignity that it can no longer be said to have any decent quality of life. In these cases, euthanasia is a viable option.
Source- http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/pet-euthanasia.html#euthanasia-reasons
Q- When is it the right time to euthanise your pet?
A-Every pet, illness and situation is different. There is no single rule that can be followed for when it is time to help your best friend “cross the rainbow bridge.” Getting input from your veterinarian on the specific medical conditions that your loved one may face is vital for doing what is best for your pet. You may also benefit from having a caring friend who is not as emotionally involved in the situation as you are to help you gain perspective and really “see” what is happening with your pet.
Source- http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/how-to-say-goodbye