What Can I Expect?
The entire process involves 2 injections and usually takes 15-30 minutes depending on how quickly the pet responds to the initial sedative.
The 1st injection, (administered under the skin or in the muscle) is a combination of 2 to 3 drugs designed to induce a plane of sedation so that your pet is peacefully resting and unaware of what is happening. Most pets are unaware of the first injection. Occasionally, a slight reaction to the first injection is encountered, as there may be a minor stinging sensation. Very occasionally, a mild excitement phase is encountered as the injection of the first drug is being absorbed.
The 2nd injection, (administered intravenously) is an anesthetic agent given in much larger doses than normally given for anesthesia. It rapidly stops respiration and heart function. Both processes occur within several seconds to a minute. Clippers may be used to shave the hair over the injection site so that the vein can be more easily seen.
As the body relaxes, the patient may take a deep breath – they are unconscious at this time and not in any distress. We usually place patients on an absorbent diaper pad as patients often release their bowels and bladders once their muscles relax.
Some pets may also exhibit residual faint muscle twitching after they pass. Some people may often misinterpret this as a sign that their pet is still alive. This is not an uncommon post-mortem change in large dogs.
Many people are alarmed that their pet’s eyes don’t close when they die – this is the rule rather than the exception.
Rarely, adverse reactions to the combination of drugs occur with a prolonged excitement phase. If your pet has ever had reactions to sedatives or anesthetics, please let us know so that we may be prepared.
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