Posts by Dr. Kathleen Cooney
A Brief History of Pentobarbital
For those curious about the discovery of barbiturates, their origin can be traced back to Germany in 1864. Ludwig von Baeyer, the founding father of the Bayer company, synthesized urea (a natural bi-product of the body) with malonic acid (derived from applies) to create barbituric acid. The term ‘barbituric’ is said to have arisen from…
Read MoreUtilizing Euthanasia to Reduce Compassion Fatigue
In medicine, we seek treatments to our ailments. Find a cure and fix the problem. Compassion fatigue is a real condition that affects millions of caregivers around the world. While complex, there are simple things that can be done to combat it. Does performing euthanasia, maybe lots of euthanasia through the course of the week/month/year…
Read MoreRennie’s Story: The Perfect Euthanasia
A case study in the perfect euthanasia experience by following CAETA’s 14 Essential Components of Companion Animal Euthanasia
Read MoreEuthanasia Curriculum – A Student Perspective
A veterinary student gives a first hand account of the euthanasia training experience and speaks about the value of euthanasia education for veterinarians.
Read MoreDuring Pet Euthanasia, Sometimes How We Say Hello is as Important as How We Say Goodbye
Pet euthanasia in the modern era is more of an experience than a medical act. For the veterinary team, it’s an artful blend of empathy, time management, medical procedure, and connecting with those present. For our clients heavily bonded with their pet(s), feeling safe and supported is paramount right from the start. This connection or rapport made…
Read MoreThe Power of Pre-Planning
The Power of Pre-Planning in improving the Companion Animal Euthanasia Experience
Read MoreWhat’s Behind a Good Pet Euthanasia?
Have you ever thought about how much really goes into a euthanasia appointment? If you really start to explore all the components that go into a good death experience, it’s no wonder euthanasia appointments are being scheduled for longer and longer time slots in the day’s calendar. There is a lot that goes into making…
Read MoreThe Growing Trend of Intraorgan Injections for Pet Euthanasia
As a newly minted mobile veterinarian, my first home euthanasia experience was anything but perfect. A sweet old Golden Retriever named Sage was about to teach me the importance of options. Intravenous injection of a euthanasia solution is traditionally the most common method to achieving a peaceful death in pets. Having not placed IV catheters…
Read MoreWhat is a Fear Free Euthanasia?
Updated January 2025 The Fear Free movement is alive and well thanks to the Fear Free Pet Initiative, led by Dr. Marty Becker. The goal of the Fear Free program is to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress, known as FAS. In reducing FAS, the pet patient will feel safer in the veterinary hospital. Throughout the…
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