Would you like to switch to the accessible version of this site?

Go to accessible site Close modal window

Don't need the accessible version of this site?

Hide the accessibility button Close modal window
Accessibility View Close toolbar
Far Hills Animal Clinic Logo

Call Us Today

(937) 434-8224

Open mobile navigation
  • Home
  • COVID-19 Protocols
  • About Us
    • Our History
    • Our Doctors
    • The Katie Fund
  • Services
    • Appointments & Services
    • Surgery
    • Pet Boarding
    • Outside Services
      • Referral Veterinary Hospital & Services
      • Boarding Facilities & Pet Sitters
      • Dog Behavior & Training Facilities
      • Pet Loss & Grieving
  • Patient Center
    • What to Expect
    • Payment Options
    • Articles
    • Veterinary Resources
  • Online Store
  • Contact Us
  • Emergency
  • Home >
  • Articles >
  • Living With Your Pet >
  • Saying Goodbye >
  • The Decision

The Decision

  • Created in Living With Your Pet, Saying Goodbye
Silhouette of a woman and her dog against the sunset.

Your decision is a personal one, but it need not be a solitary one. Your veterinarian and your family and friends can assist and support you.

How Do I Make The Decision?

Your relationship with your pet is special, and you are responsible for its care and welfare. Eventually, many owners are faced with making life or death decisions for their pets. Such a decision may become necessary for the welfare of the animal and for you and your family. A decision concerning euthanasia may be one of the most difficult decisions you will ever make regarding your pet. Your decision is a personal one, but it need not be a solitary one. Your veterinarian and your family and friends can assist and support you. Consider not only what is best for your pet, but also what is best for you and your family. Quality of life is important for pets and people alike.

How Will I Know When It's Time?

If your pet can no longer do with you and your family the things he or she once enjoyed, if your pet cannot respond to you in the usual ways, or if there is more pain than pleasure in his or her life, you may need to consider euthanasia. Likewise, if your pet is terminally ill or critically injured, or if the financial or emotional cost of treatment is beyond your means, euthanasia may be a valid option.

Your veterinarian understands attachment to pets, and can examine and evaluate your pet's condition, estimate your pet's chances for recovery, and discuss potential disabilities and long-term problems. He or she can explain the medical options and possible outcomes. Because your veterinarian cannot make the euthanasia decision for you, it is important that you fully understand your pet's condition. If there is any part of the diagnosis or the implications for your pet's future that you don't understand, ask to have it explained again. Rarely will the situation require an immediate decision. Usually, you will have time to review the facts before making your decision.

As you make your decision, you may wish to discuss the care of the remains of your pet's body with your family and veterinarian. You have several options, and your veterinarian can provide information about burial, cremation, or other alternatives.

What If the Animal is Healthy?

Euthanasia might be necessary if a pet has become vicious, dangerous, or unmanageable. However, some undesirable and abnormal behavior can be changed. Economic, emotional, and space limitations or changes in lifestyle also may force an owner to consider euthanasia of a pet, but it is better to find another solution or an alternative home for these pets. Euthanasia should be considered only when another alternative is not available.

  • We Help Your Pet With
    • Chronic Conditions
    • Digestive and Oral Health
    • Diseases and Viruses
    • Pests and Parasites
    • Orthopedics
  • Today's Veterinarian
  • Choosing Your Pet
    • Birds
    • Cats
    • Dogs
    • Ferrets
    • Rabbits
    • Reptiles
      • Lizards
      • Turtles
  • Living With Your Pet
    • Bringing Your Pet Home
    • Providing Care
    • Travel
    • Saying Goodbye
  • Finding Your Pet
  • Newsletter Library
    • Tips for Pet Owners
    • Fun with Pets
    • Equine
    • Visiting the Vet
    • Unbelievable Pets
    • Seasonal Topics
    • Pet Dangers
    • Nutrition & Food
    • Recognizing Illness
    • Cats
    • Keeping Pets Healthy
    • Fleas & Parasites
    • Behavior & Training
  • Video Newsroom
    • Health Topics
    • Technology and Science
    • Other Interests
  • Client Survey
  • Pets4Kids
  • Feline
  • Get The App In The App Store

    Download our new app in The App Store.


  • Get the App In Google Play

    Download our new app in Google Play.

  • Shop Online

    Get your pets' food or medications delivered to your home.

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Centerville Office

Monday:

8 AM - 6 PM

Tuesday:

8 AM - 6 PM

Wednesday:

8 AM - 6 PM

Thursday:

8 AM - 6 PM

Friday:

8 AM - 6 PM

Saturday:

8 AM - noon

Sunday:

Closed

Location

Find us on the map

    No testimonials found. Please add

    Identifying Dementia in Senior Dogs

    Have you noticed changes in your older dog's behavior? ...

    Read More

    Keep Your Pets Safe From Toxic Household Items

    Do you know which household items can sicken your pet? ...

    Read More

    Preventing Obesity in Cats

    Even one extra pound could affect your pet's health. Find out how you can keep your cat slim and trim. ...

    Read More

    Pet Dental Care - Tips to Manage Your Pet’s Oral Health

    Do you know how to keep your pet's teeth and gums healthy? ...

    Read More

    Learn How to Master Walking Your Dog for Walk Your Pet Month

    Does your dog need a little help walking on a leash? ...

    Read More

    Bringing a New Pet in the Home in the New Year

    Are you planning on adding a pet to your family this year? These tips will help you prepare for the arrival of your furry, feathered, or finned friend. ...

    Read More

    Cold Symptoms in Dogs

    Could your sneezing, sniffling dog have a cold? ...

    Read More

    Cold Weather Pet Safety

    Do you know how to keep your pet safe this winter? ...

    Read More

    Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays

    Keep Thanksgiving day safe for your pet by following these tips. ...

    Read More

    November is Pet Cancer Awareness Month

    Do you know the symptoms that can occur if your pet has cancer? ...

    Read More
  • Copyright © 2021 MH Sub I, LLC dba iMatrix.
  • Admin Log In