Behavioral euthanasia is when the choice is made to humanely medically end a pet’s life due to unsolvable behavioral issues. This is an extremely difficult decision and one that can create a lot of guilt. The majority of these pets are fairly young and physically healthy, making it an even harder choice. There are some veterinarians who will not provide this service.
Through the many years I have been in practice I have come to realize that there are times where this is the best and most appropriate choice. First and foremost I have realized that though the pet may be physically healthy, they are mentally ill.
Most of the pet owners that contact us for behavioral issues have already tried training (sometimes multiple times), medicating, environmental modification, and/or rehoming, to no avail. Some pets we see were adopted as a young adult or older and it rapidly became apparentthere were behavior issues that were not disclosed by the previous owner or rescue or shelter. Now these behaviors are unable to be corrected.
The pet in question is not living a happy or good life due to their behavioral issues. They usuallly live with severe anxiety. Due to their aggressive behavior, they are not able to be social with other pets or people, and it can hinder proper grooming and medical care. The behavior always worsens over time. Unfortunately by the time help is sought the behavior is impossible to change and keeping a pet sedated for the rest of its life is not a humane option.
The family also lives with stress and anxiety. The concern for safety of family, friends, or other pets causes a constant tension. Worrying about their pet prevents the family from being able to socialize normally, take vacations, or even be comfortable in their own home - especially if the behavior is unpredictable. Sometimes owners feel imprisoned in their own home.
We hear many stories where the owner has reached out for help and advice, only to be made to feel guilty for even considering humane euthanasia for their pet. We never blame the pet or label them “bad”, they truly are mentally ill. Humane euthanasia is not a punishment for the pet’s behavior; it is a release from their suffering. The decision to euthanize a pet for behavioral issues is a gut wrenching one and we are here to support you and answer any questions.
Written by Dr.Debra Freiberg
