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?