Euthanasia Ethical Dilemma

This scenario is quite difficult because not only is it a human and animal bond but the pet has a connection to the males dead mother. So the male owner is not just saying goodbye to his pet but letting go of the final piece of his mother. I personally feel that this would be a sad situation to deal with, I myself would have trouble dealing with it if it where me. However if the pet was not in a good way I would lead the client into the decision making process delicately but ultimately allowing them to make the decision to euthanase the pet.

I would start by explaining what euthanasia actually means. That it is actually considered and translates to be a humane death. If you where to leave the pet in the state that it was in, it would be suffering …show more content…
This allows the client time to process and prepare for when they are ready to choose a day for the euthanasia. For example, saying last goodbyes to other family members or taking his pet for one last walk at the park. Additionally, I would reassure him that he has the option of doing it from the comfort of his own home. This could make it easier on him that way he knows his pet will be comfortable in its favourite bed and surrounded by a familiar environment. I would also let him know that it was ok if he wanted done at the clinic and if he did or did not what to be present. Giving the client the option to choose, allowing them to feel somewhat in control, may help them make this decision to choose euthanasia easier. If done at the clinic I would make sure that they were book during a quite time of the day and when they come in they are not left waiting around in the waiting area but placed in a separate room or straight into the consult room. I would make sure the room is tidy, that there is a box of tissues present or even offer them a glass of water or tea. In addition I would book it for extra time as they may need more time than a normal consult. What I would also offer is the opportunity for the client to cut a piece of hair from their pet, it they wanted to keep the pets ' collar or to make up a paw print as a keep …show more content…
This not only allows the client to feel acknowledge but it is also a way of letting all the staff in the clinic know that this pet is dead, preventing any awkward "how 's your pet Mr Joe?", or accidently sending out vaccination reminders to them.

Whether the client is struggling to make the decision or is severely affected after the euthanasia I would refer them to a grief counsellor that way they are getting the appropriate care they need without me feeling so guilty that I euthanased their pet.

Hopefully through thorough discussion and time the outcome of this scenario would be that I gained the clients trust and that he did decide to euthanase his pet.

that it would be a peaceful and respectful