Euthanasia

Abstract

Euthanasia is a common procedure in veterinary practice. Veterinarians must determine if the request for euthanasia is warranted or if other factors exist making the decision to euthanize inappropriate or objectionable. This chapter addresses ethical and practical concerns associated with companion animal euthanasia, including defining euthanasia; why, when, and where euthanasia should be performed; applying euthanasia; contemporary methods; fees; and aftercare of deceased animals. 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.