Euthanasia Flashcards
Keys to Attachment to a pet
Rescued
Difficult period
Childhood
Most significant source of support
Anthropomorphize
Extensive time, effort, finances invested
Symbolic link to people from past
What can make the loss of a pet more difficult?
Being the sole mourner
T/F
Supporting an owner through pet loss is part of the veterinary staff job.
True
Veterinary professionals can assist clients by normalizing their feelings.
Compassion
an important emotional resource to draw on when interacting with clients experiencing grief.
Stages of grief
Not linear and can happen before and after euthanasia
Denial
Bargaining
Anger
Guilt: Anger turned
inward
Depression
Resolution
Acceptance
T/F
Clients overwhelmed with emotion may have
difficulty comprehending information.
True
Any and all information may need to be repeated multiple times. Write things down for the client to reference later if possible.
Denial
A normal defense mechanism
Is reflected in client’s eyes and demeanor
Often occurs before deciding on euthanasia
Bargaining
Client maneuvers personally and privately; negotiates
with God
○ Looks for a “miracle cure”
Anger
Anger can be exhibited in a variety of direct and indirect
ways
Can manifest in the form of guilt
You can help by reassuring clients that they did everything possible and made the right decisions.
Depression/Grief
Irritability, sleep irregularity, restlessness, inability to
concentrate
Resolution
Acceptance
The previous 4 stages have fallen into the background of the client’s life.
What is the number one issue to watch in veterinary professionals?
compassion fatigue
How should euthanasia be discussed?
Professionally, with compassion, and clearly.
critical to a smooth euthanasia
Communication
Who can perform Euthanasia?
Licensed veterinarians
LVT under the indirect supervision of a veterinarian
Veterinary assistant under the direct supervision of a veterinarian
Personnel of a registered humane society or animal control agency
