When is euthanasia appropriate?

Euthanasia Definition

‘The humane, painless and intentional ending of an animal’s life to relieve suffering and prevent further disease.’

When Is Euthanasia Appropriate

• Untreatable or terminal illness end end-stage cancer, organ failure and progressive neurological disease
• Severe injury, severe trauma, spinal injuries or open fractures where treatment isn’t appropriate.
• Chronic pain
• Severe, persistent distress or anxiety, can’t eat, drink, rest, constantly in fear and cannot perform normal behaviours

“Euthanasia becomes appropriate when the animal cannot enjoy its life, and it is clearly in the animal's best interest, especially when further life would involve irreversible suffering.”

Rare Cases

Animals who pose a severe behavioural risk may need to be euthanised, but only if the animal is a danger and rehabilitation has been unsuccessful.

Key MMI Understanding

You should show awareness that vets consider prognosis and suffering and not just, ‘Can the animal survive?’.