Title: (Sensitive) Describe aspects and accepted procedures and methods of humane euthanasia.
Course: Veterinary Science I (18105-I) > Section: Handling Death and Dying

Description should include

- participants involved in the euthanasia decision
- legal and ethical issues concerning animal euthanasia (e.g., proof of animal ownership, release from responsibility)
- documentation required prior to performing euthanasia
- factors to consider when scheduling an appointment for euthanasia
- various methods of euthanasia and species’ suitability for these methods
- safety and restraint considerations and procedures
- behaviors and/or physiological changes the animal may exhibit during euthanasia
- accepted methods of handling animal remains.

Teacher Resource: Guidelines for the euthanasia of animals, AVMA

Process/Skill Questions:

- Who decides when an animal should be euthanized? Who performs euthanasia? Why?
- When is a gunshot considered an acceptable means of euthanasia? What are some potential dangers of using this method?
- When selecting a method of euthanasia, what is the primary consideration?
- What is the most common method of euthanasia? Why is it used so frequently?
- Why is it important for an IV catheter to be placed prior to intravenous administration of euthanasia solution?
- Why is it critical to ensure the owner of record authorizes the procedure?
- Why should a veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician (LVT) auscultate the thorax to verify loss of heartbeat in the presence of the owner?
- What services are available in your area if a person wants private cremation?
- How does your location handle cremation of animals when the owner doesn’t wish to privately handle the remains?