Can a vet euthanize my pet if someone else gives permission?

Hello. We are absolutely allowed to decide if & when an animal is euthanized, regardless of the reason. Any veterinarian who euthanizes an animal because there are too many probably works for a shelter or humane society. I get multiple requests a week from people wanting to kill perfectly healthy animals for various reasons. I can appreciate that circumstances sometimes force a person to go this route, but I, & many veterinarians I know, will not participate in this. If you only knew how it tears at our hearts whenever someone asks to this, you would understand. This is not what I went to school for 8 years to do. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Veterinarians can decline euthanizing pets if they feel that it isn't medically warranted. But yes sadly pet owners can ASK to euthanize their pets for any reason BUT the Vet can decline to do so. Pets are considered property by most laws. :(

I am so sorry for your loss of Cocoa. I know this is a very difficult time for you and I'm sorry the euthanasia procedure traumatized you. There are many ways to perform euthanasia. Typically, I would say most vets, including myself, give a sedative prior to euthanasia however, it is not mandated by any law that this be done. I suggest you speak to your vet directly about the procedure he/she performs as perhaps there was a miscommunication between them and their staff assuming a sedative was already given prior to them performing the euthanasia?? I really think that they need this feedback so they can review their euthanasia protocol and change it in the future for other owners if they don't typically use a sedative prior. Again, so sorry for your loss.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your pet. I recommend euthanasia based on several factors. If there is an incurable or painful disease present, I do not want the pet to suffer. I want the pet to be willing to eat and drink on its own. I want the pet to have the mobility to make it to the litterbox or outside to be able to go to the bathroom. I want the animal to still experience joy in its life. This could be short walks, playing with toys or just happy to be with you. If these criteria are not being met, I will discuss euthanasia with the family. If you are still unsure, you can schedule a quality of life consultation with your veterinarian. I hope this information helps.

Most clinics and shelters have a microchip scanner that is used to scan any found pets. You should contact the microchip company and alert them. If the chip ID is called in, this could trip an alert so you may be contacted. Additionally, in most cases, most veterinarians will not euthanize a sick pet simply for financial reasons. Every attempt will be made to accommodate the client as well as the patient.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If Tiny removed her staples or sutures, she should be seen by a vet as soon as possible as the incision can become infected rather quickly. If your regular veterinarian is not open, there are emergency clinics in most cities/towns. Euthanasia of a pet is a personal choice, and definitely does not make you a bad person. I am not sure what else is going on with Tiny that may have led to her having surgery, but hip dysplasia or arthritis can be managed with pain medication and nutritional supplements fairly well. Euthanasia is an unfortunate decision that many pet owners have to make eventually, and is at times in the best interest of the pet. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any other questions you may have!

Generally, an adult owner is needed to authorize any kind of treatment - so I would say at least 18 years of age. But you could always call the specific clinic you're planning to go to and ask what their policy is, to be sure.