Faithful Hearts

Is My Pet in Pain?

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Animals do not always express pain in ways that we expect, and most animals will innately hide their pain.  Your pet sees keeping you happy as their #1 job, and so they will often be responsive to you, wag their tail, and continue to eat through significant pain.  Below are some symptoms your pet may show if they are experiencing pain:

 

• Lameness on one or more limbs

• Decreased activity, less willing to participate in play

• Changes in posture when moving, standing, or sitting

• Anxious or restless, especially at night

• Tail down or tucked in between hindlimbs

• Weight gain or loss

• Avoiding stairs, litter box, or jumping

• Difficulty standing or lying down

• Licking or chewing around and affected joint

• Eyes dull +/- furrowed brow

• Poor appetite

• Muscle loss

• Panting (dogs), increased respiratory rate

• Accidents

• Vocalizing

• Decreased interest in surroundings

• Anti-social behavior – hiding or seeking out unusual spots away from the family

• Fearful or reactive to being touched, especially in areas in pain

• In cats, research has shown changes in vertical climbing/jumping is the single best indicator of pain!!!

 

Is it time to euthanize my pet?

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For anyone who has loved a pet, considering whether or not to euthanize is an agonizing decision.  You may avoid it altogether.  But we have this choice to end their suffering and to help them pass peacefully, with dignity.  It is important that we use this choice wisely.   You may not realize it, but you are the best judge of when your pet’s condition is declining.  You are the one who sees them every day, who knows what they love and what is important to them.  Some things you can do on your own to start assessing your pet’s quality of life can include the following:

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• List five of your pet’s favorite activities. Can they still do at least three of those on a regular basis and enjoy themselves while doing so?

• Consider the “Is My Pet in Pain?” signs listed above to think about if your pet is showing subtle signs of suffering

• Is your pet having more bad days than good?  You can download a free app such as Grey Muzzle to easily track trends

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Please visit our blog post here for a more in-depth discussion and info on some helpful resources! 

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What Can I Expect During the In Home Euthanasia? 

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We will do our best to get most of the information we need (by email or texting if a phone call is too difficult) beforehand so that we can focus on you and your pet during the appointment.  We can also answer any questions you have during these pre-appointment communications. 

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When Alissa and Blake arrive at your home, we will introduce ourselves to you and your pet and go over any preliminary concerns you have (if you or your pet prefers females and you do not want Blake to come into the appointment please just let us know beforehand, and he will still be available if needed to assist with transporting your pet to our vehicle afterwards).  We will then spend as much time as needed (typically a few minutes) going over aftercare options for your pet, memorial options, costs, and any additional questions.  Alissa will go over the process with you in enough detail that everyone present is prepared and knows what to expect.  During this time you may decide you do not want to be present for any or for only part of the procedure – whatever you decide is okay, there is no right or wrong.

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When you are ready, Alissa will administer an anesthetic injection to allow your pet to slip into a deep, painless sleep.  This gives you some final time to spend with your pet completely relaxed and anxiety-free.  When your pet is ready, she will give a final injection which will let him or her pass peacefully.  She will allow you, and your pet’s animal companions, as much time alone with your pet as needed to say your final goodbyes afterwards.  If you are planning on a home burial, if desired we can help you gently move your pet to a specific area.  If Faithful Hearts will be handling aftercare (by our own team through our Furever Faithul Pet Aquamation), Alissa and Blake will use a stretcher or basket to transport your pet when you are ready.

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While time can vary depending on your needs, your pet's needs, and how much time you may want at each part of the appointment, our average home euthanasia appointments include 35-45 minutes in your home.