Title: (Sensitive) Explain the purpose of euthanasia.
Course: Veterinary Science I (18105-I) > Section: Handling Death and Dying

Explanation should include

- a definition of euthanasia
- situations that may warrant euthanasia (e.g., untreatable or irreversible medical conditions that cause suffering, unmanageable behavior that poses a serious health risk to humans or other animals)
- strategies for clear communication (and avoidance of language that may lead to client confusion or distress).

Teacher Resource: Guidelines for the euthanasia of animals, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

Process/Skill Questions:

- What is the derivation of the word euthanasia? What euphemisms are commonly used in place of euthanasia?
- What are the current American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines on euthanasia?
- When might euthanasia be an option for a pet with cancer or other chronic illness?
- When might the government require an animal to be euthanized?
- Why must an animal that has bitten a human be quarantined before it is euthanized?