How to Help Children Cope with Euthanasia

When is it time?

Making the decision to put a beloved pet down is one of the most heartbreaking things we have to do when an animal is suffering. It is no easier for the veterinarian than it is for the pet owner. Often, the cost of veterinary care is so expensive that any treatments that could save your pet's life is out of the question, and euthanasia is the only alternative. For children, the idea of euthanasia can be even more traumatic than for the adults.

Having children and a sick pet means that one day you might have to make the decision to end your pet's suffering. Rather than being too hasty you should evaluate your pet's quality of life. The pet can have a terminal disease, yet still enjoy eating, and playing. If your pet is not in a lot of pain, and still enjoys the activities of daily living, this would not be the time to euthanize; however, if your animal is in pain that is not relieved by medications, and seems to be suffering, this is the time to consider putting an end to its suffering.

Should children be present?

Whether or not your children should be present at their pet's euthanasia would depend on their ages and their level of understanding. Always be honest with your kids about what is going to happen to their pet. Trust is important to children, and if they discover you told them something other than the truth your children may have issues with you later on.

Your children may ask you what euthanasia means; you will need to tell them as truthfully and gently as possible that their pet's illness or injury is causing their animal to suffer, and the animal is so sick or hurt that it cannot get better.

If you have children, never make the decision to euthanize without including them. Never have the pet euthanized without the children's knowledge. You can then explain what euthanasia means. The talk must be well ahead of the actual time to put the animal down, so the children have a chance to process the information.

How does euthanasia happen?