Having to decide whether you should euthanize your companion is a hard one to make. But! Sometimes it can be a necessary choice for their sake.
As we all know, animals have a much shorter life span than humans. When they grow older, there are chances for health complications to occur. That can be one of the many reasons to consider assisting your pet with a painless end.
You will most likely be able to choose once you know how to euthanize a dog with over-the-counter drugs or if you should consider alternative options. Read on if you’re seriously considering taking this route to give your little friend an easy ending.
What Is Euthanasia?
Before we discuss the main focus of this article, let’s first understand ‘what is euthanasia?.’ Very simply put, it is the act of painlessly putting an animal to death. The process is considered an act of mercy and even love since the caregiver wishes to help end the suffering of their furry friend.
The etymology of the word is derived from εὐθανασία which is Greek. This means to have a ‘good death.’ The ancient civilization believed their Gods would come for the souls of those who passed away well.
Many would not even consider euthanasia unless faced with a situation where their pets are in anguish and unbearable pain. During such times it’s always good to seek the opinion of a trained medical professional or technician. They are usually the ones who perform the procedure too.
Why Would You Consider Euthanasia?
Given how much your dog has meant to you and your life, it’s not an easy decision to make, but it might be one you can’t avoid.
Here are a few reasons why others in your position have considered euthanizing their beloved pets.
- Terminal Illness
This might be the most common reason why many pet parents consider euthanization. Even though there are ways to help treat animals’ illnesses, medical assistance sometimes can’t support them. Pet owners will usually consider this option if their dogs have been in a lot of pain for years.
- Fatal Injury
Another reason why owners choose to put their animals to rest is because of significant injuries they might have sustained. Again, the majority of pet ailments can be treated medically, but occasionally a pet may be involved in an accident and suffer a fatal wound that cannot be healed. If the pet is deprived of productive and happy life, its owners may consider this option.
- Old Age With Health Complications
The second most common reason to choose euthanasia is this one. Aging is not an easy process for any living being on Earth. Watching our favorite animal companion reach maturity so quickly can be heartbreaking. It’s even more painful to see them suffer if they are plagued with illnesses during this time.
When the dog can no longer get up on its own and cannot ingest food or live happily, owners will have to consider euthanasia. Usually, medical specialists will also provide this option.
Can You Use Over The Counter Drugs To Euthanize Dogs?
Yes, you can put your dog to rest using over-the-counter drugs. Euthanasia is a safe way to make sure your pet passes away comfortably. You’ve come to the right place if you’ve been trying to figure out what and how to put your dog to sleep.
Most drugs used for euthanasia are sold at any department store or local pharmacy. They can also be bought at pet stores; make sure you check the labels thoroughly before purchasing the medicine.
There is, however, a prescribed ethical amount that must be delivered while administering the drugs. Hence, having a medical professional visit your home is the safest way to complete the procedure.
What Over-The-Counter Drugs Can You Use to Euthanize a Dog?
The most widely used over-the-counter medication given to dogs are
- Benadryl
This option is on the list because it’s one of the most effective ways to euthanize a dog. However, it can cause your pet discomfort once it begins to work on their bodies, which you should keep in mind before choosing this drug.
- Tylenol
Another over-the-counter drug that is used is Tylenol. Arguably the most common medicine used for this procedure, the drug can cause distress or discomfort to your pup right before they pass. Even though the drug works fast, it causes liver and kidney failure, which might be a trying end for your pet.
- Sleep Inducing Pills
This is considered the last option for most people who are considering euthanasia. Sleeping pills can assist with the process, but you’ll need to sedate your dog to help them relax before administering the drug.
Steps For Safe Administration of Drugs
If you’ve read thus far and are considering using this method to ease your dog’s suffering, there are a few steps you need to take to make sure your dog is comfortable.
- The first and most crucial step is to contact your local veterinarian or animal health care center. They must be provided with all the details of the dog’s condition, and you can check and see if they can make a house call.
It becomes difficult to transport a pet if it’s too sick or quite big. This is why you should consider keeping them at home where they feel the safest.
- You will need to check for the right amount of medication to be administered to the dog. Once you’re in contact with the doctor or technician, ask them for the correct dose, which will start the process of shutting down your dog’s body.
If you’re a healthcare professional, you’ll know why it is necessary only to give the prescribed amount of medicine. If you’re giving too much, you may increase your pet’s discomfort.
- You must now consider administering the drug to your pet. If you’ve got a vet to visit your home, they’ll do it for you. However, if you cannot get a professional to come over, you will need to think about giving the meds orally, injecting it, or IV.
- Arrange a safe place that is comfortable and quiet for your pet. Dogs are prone to becoming agitated if they feel unsafe. Since they are already under a lot of stress because of their medical conditions, you want to do everything you can to help them feel comfortable and at ease.
- You must make sure that every item used for the procedure is handled with extreme care both during administration and disposal. The majority of medications used in euthanasia are harmful to humans as well.
These steps should only be considered as a last resort if you are unable to contact a professional or they are unable to visit your location or residence.
Is Euthanizing Your Dog With Over-The-Counter Drugs An Ethical Practice?
Suppose you’ve been trying to morally justify your choice of putting your pet to sleep. You aren’t the only one. There’s always that burning question of ‘is this the right choice’ for both you and your dog. Besides, how can you sit and watch while your pet suffers silently, right?
From a legal point of view, it’s not against the law to have your pet euthanized. Many states actually allow non-trained individuals to perform the act. And, lots of people still choose to “put down” their pets if it is suffering from illnesses.
The criteria for allowing owners to euthanize is very straightforward. The pet has to be incapacitated or terminally ill. Or, you can have your pet put down if it is no longer to live a healthy life.
Given that the law still allows the act of humanely terminating a pet if the right conditions appear, the argument of whether this is right will continue.
Other Alternatives To Consider
Although euthanasia was the only option available in the past for some ailments, there are now certain creative solutions to help our dogs in their final days.
- Hospice Care For Pets
Can it be there’s hospice care for terminally ill pets? Well, yes! Even though it has yet to be popularized. A few hospice services are available that tend to animals suffering from sickness or are really old and feeble.
This allows the animal to enjoy a comfortable and easy life during their last days and helps the pet pass away naturally. Therefore, there will not be any intervention provided with the medication.
- Medicine And Hospital Care
When most pet parents are given the news that their companion may not have long to live, they are faced with the choice of keeping them in the hospital or euthanasia.
Suppose you opt for hospital care and treatment. In that case, the vet and all other trained professionals will do everything necessary to keep your pet as comfortable as possible until it’s time for them to pass away.
Final Thoughts on How to Euthanize a Dog With Over-The-Counter Drugs
It can be hard to consider euthanasia, but sometimes it’s the only way to help your pets. Most dog parents may not even be able to think about it unless they are faced with a situation that makes them consider the option.
If you’ve made up your mind, then ensure you thoroughly research and prepare yourself for the procedure. You may also want to spend some time with your dog to make sure you’ve done everything you can to help them.
Some of My Favorite Products For Dog Owners
I hope this article has helped you just a bit in everyday life as a dog owner. Being a dog owner for more than 25 years myself, I’ve tried an abundance of different products with varying success, but these products below are some that I can highly recommend to every dog and their owner without hesitation!
These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. But it’s products that I use daily myself, and I have nothing but praise for.
Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be hard, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. But since 2015 when the company was founded, I’ve been using Ollie Petfood. With their product being tailor-made to suit every dog’s specific needs, and as my dogs absolutely love the product, I’m pretty sure I’ve found a product I will continue to use for many years more. If you use my link you can get 50% off your first order.
Dog Training: If you’ve ever owned a puppy, you know that they require a lot of training to grow into a well-behaved adult. Brain Training for Dogs has helped me immensely with the mental training part of raising a dog, and it’s something I strongly recommend you consider.
Grooming: If you have a dog in your home, you’re going to need a brush, and for this, I recommend a Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush. For that price, you simply can’t beat this brush for everyday grooming.
If you’re looking for the most up-to-date recommendations, check out my recommended products section that I’ve created to help every dog owner!
