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

Description should include

- the participants involved in the decision to perform euthanasia
- 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
- pharmacological agents and other methods of euthanasia
- species suitability for various methods of euthanasia
- safety and restraint procedures
- behaviors and/or physiological changes the animal may exhibit during euthanasia.

See also "Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals" (American Veterinary Medical Association).

Process/Skill Questions:

- Who decides when an animal should be euthanized? Why?
- 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?
- How does the penetrating captive bolt cause death of an animal?
- How are the trends in Fear Free Handling impacting euthanasia procedures?
- 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 is authorizing 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?