behavioral euthanasia

If you are caring for a pet with severe behavioral issues, first of all our hearts go out to you… We know how extra difficult your situation can be.  Please read through this page to better understand how special your situation is and how we can help, as a last resort. 

What is "behavioral euthanasia"?

Sometimes our devoted and beloved animal companions come with or develop serious, intractable behavior problems such as aggression towards people or other animals, severe separation anxiety or other fears that can ultimately make our lives unbearable. These undesirable personality traits can evolve from a variety of factors such as genetics, lack of socialization, medical conditions, abuse or neglect earlier in life or even for reasons we will never understand or figure out.  Regardless of the cause, the result is the same: a poor quality of life for our pet and for us.

Why is this so extra emotionally challenging?

We can relate to how much you love your pet.  The unconditional love that we get from our pets is what makes the relationship so unique.  It’s so frustrating, exhausting and sad when our pet brings so much joy to our lives but then can suddenly, unpredictably also be a danger and a liability to friends, family, the general public or even ourselves.  Typically, we spend a lot of time, money and energy trying to understand, manage and correct these behaviors by reading, talking to others, seeking help from a veterinarian, animal behaviorist or trainer, altering our homes, our activities and even our daily lives. Sometimes we are successful and sometimes we are not. It is not your fault.  As much as you love your pet, it can sometimes be impossible to change or fix them and often there are just no good options.

What makes this such a difficult situation?

Fortunately, or unfortunately, you are not alone. Your situation is more common than people realize. Behavioral problems are the number one reason why people surrender a pet to a shelter.  Sadly, these loved ones are the most difficult to rehome (adopt out) and are typically euthanized, having spent their last moments under the stress of being held in a shelter. Even harder to accept is when we are dealing with an otherwise young and/or healthy pet.  The decision to euthanize is never an easy one and not having a physical reason makes it even harder.  But as Dr. Sheila Robertson says, “Quality of life is not just about physical health, it’s also about mental health.  Animals that are extremely fearful or anxious and show aggressive behavior are also ill and likely suffering mentally and emotionally.”1

How can we help?

Because this is such a sensitive and complicated issue, our doctors need extra information to fully understand the situation.  Like you, we also want to be sure that we have run out of options and that euthanasia is truly the most appropriate and last resort. For example, we feel there may be other options for behavioral problems that do NOT involve aggression like house-soiling, barking or destructive behaviors like chewing or digging. We also want to know the problem behavior is not due to chronic pain, a hormonal imbalance or other physical ailment that might be medically treatable.  For these reasons, we typically request previous records to review your pet’s medical history including proof of rabies vaccination.  By law, we need to know if and when your pet has bitten anyone deeply enough to break skin or cause bleeding.  Putting us in direct contact with your behaviorist or trainer is also ideal to clarify the situation and can allow us to provide you with even more timely support.

special needs for the visit

First and foremost, we want to make sure everyone is safe during the visit.  The goal is to avoid or minimize stress to your beloved pet.  We want to avoid possible triggers such as strangers, restraint or even certain sounds that can upset the patient.  We suggest using a muzzle, large E-collar, towel or blanket to prevent biting, if possible.  We also highly recommend asking your regular veterinarian for a “pre-euthanasia oral sedative” to be given prior to our arrival. For best results, make sure your pet is hungry and more likely to eat the medication in food if you cannot safely orally-medicate them by hand. Choose a high-value, rich food or treat.  Leave the pet undisturbed after the medication has been administered. It is very important for us to discuss these details and come up with a tailored plan prior to our visit. Please don't hesitate to contact us.  We are here to help you. 

resources

animal trainers & behaviorists:
  1. Alisha Ardiana (she/her) BS, CTBC, CPDT-KA, FDM, CPCN: empawthy.com
  2. International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants: iaabc.org/en/certs/members
support groups:
  1. Losing Lulu: facebook.com/groups/losinglulu
  2. Lap of Love: petloss.lapoflove.com/
reading materials:
  1. American Kennel Club: akc.org/expert-advice/health/consider-behavioral-euthanasia/
  2. Preventive Vet: preventivevet.com/dogs/when-to-euthanize-an-aggressive-dog
  3. Canine Turbo Training: k9turbotraining.com/euthanasia-for-behavior-part-one-changing-the-culture/
  4. Slate: slate.com/human-interest/2021/06/dog-bite-training-behavioral-euthanasia.html
podcast:
  1. Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists: caabpodcasts.com/index.php/2020/05/01/behavioral-euthanasia/

reference

1 – Lap of Love (2023, June). Tips and Tricks for Behavioral Euthanasia Appointments by Sheilah A. Robertson, BVMS (Hons), PhD, DACVAA, DECVAA, DACAW, DECAWBM (AWSEL), MRCVS, Senior Medical Director, Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice