Farewell

While the concept of euthanasia or good death is a challenging one for most people, what clients fundamentally want is: to know that they are doing the right thing; for respect to be shown to them and to
their animals; and for the procedure to be smooth, peaceful and dignified.

The key to really making a difference is supporting clients emotionally as well as professionally. When making the decision
for euthanasia clients feel responsible for their pet's death and, at either a conscious or subconscious level, often have a perception
that they are ‘killing’ their pet to use our language at its coldest. For most clients it is heart-wrenching, tortuous (particularly in the lead up, if there is one), overwhelmingly sad, confronting, often shocking and they feel guilty regardless of the circumstances. So, how can we best serve them in the midst of this emotional maelstrom and extreme difficulty?

Empathy

In essence what we need to do is be empathetic. Our goal in showing empathy is the simple one of trying to understand what reality is like for the other person then letting that other person know that we do understand. We do this by: listening; observing; asking simple open questions that invite a response; and, making reflective
statements. With respect to euthanasia we aim to understand and acknowledge the unique deep emotional attachment and loving bond each client has with his or her pet. At the same time we must validate the meaning and significance of the pet in our client’s life and validate the difficulty and powerful feelings being experienced as our client is being confronted with such an important life coming to an end: ”Your tears tell me how much Benny means to you, John, and how sad you are at finally having to let him go.”

Of all the procedures we perform in veterinary practice euthanasia is perhaps the most important. For the majority of clients making the decision for euthanasia (and then following it through) is the most difficult thing they  have ever had to do and whether it’s done well or poorly will be remembered forever. Goodwill is consequently strongly affected by how we handle the process of euthanasia.

Veterinarians and support staff can play a powerful role in influencing the euthanasia process to increase the chance that a client will experience some comfort, validation and ease in the midst of extreme difficulty. Our goal in doing this, at a simple level, follows from the literal translation of euthanasia which is good (eu) death (thanos).

Farewell
by David Foote

David Foote BVSc BMus, is a veterinarian and a counsellor who specialises in the fields of stress management and grief over pet loss. Call: 0425 281 424 or visit: www.davidfoote.com.au