Posts by Dr. Kathleen Cooney
Oxytocin and Euthanasia; An important combination to get right
Recently I have fallen in love with the love hormone oxytocin. While learning ways to establish rapport and build trust with pet owners, this ‘moral molecule’ as it’s sometimes called was just begging to be explored further. Many of us know oxytocin as the hormone that promotes prosocial behavior such as bonding, wanting to be…
Read MoreWhy the Use of Intravenous Catheters are Gold Standard in Companion Animal Euthanasia
If you take a moment to reflect on the most dangerous substances we inject into the body, you may come up with the same answer as I did. Chemotherapy. These drugs by nature destroy cells, and cause considerable damage to tissue in areas of accidental contact such as extravasation outside of the venous system. They…
Read MoreEuthanasia Drugs; Administration rates matter
If euthanasia becomes necessary to relieve suffering, it should be handled with respect and skill. The speed at which euthanasia solution is administered effects two main things; potential pain and active signs of death. For the most part, veterinarians are taught to inject quickly but it turns out this is only correct part of the…
Read MoreStress + Symptoms = Euthanasia?
The effects of stress on both animals and humans has been well documented, showing how stress can weaken the immune system, trigger the onset of cancer, increase inflammation, upset the gastrointestinal tract, and leave the body in a general poor state of health. It can look like the end of days for many pets, especially…
Read MorePet Loss Support Groups and Resources; Caring for pet owners after euthanasia
Grieving pet owners benefit when they have access to pet loss support information. There are a variety of resources on the internet, however many of them are out of date and no longer in service. The Companion Animal Euthanasia Training Academy (CAETA) has created this list of mainly US-based pet loss support groups, with some…
Read MoreEuthanasia Comfort Rooms
A pet owner once asked me what’s the most important thing in my euthanasia comfort rooms. Kleenex was my response. The floor could be dirt and the room cold; as long as we keep compassion and the bond front and center, nothing else matters. I believe this for sure however having special touches to keep…
Read MoreSpecial Update: Pentobarbital alternatives
While pentobarbital shortages are lessening in some parts of the world, many are still without and seeking safe and reliable alternatives. Pentobarbital is the #1 go-to drug for animal euthanasia in many countries. It is reliable with consistent dosing, with minimal side effects leading to a peaceful death when performed properly. Proceeding without this familiar…
Read MoreDeceased Pet Care; Beyond the basics for ideal pet owner support
To go beyond the basics, we’d best start with them so everyone is on the same page.For generations, the go-to plan at most vet hospitals has been the following…~ Pet owner chooses euthanasia~ Hospital asks if they want private or communal cremation~ Pet passes, owner departs~ Hospital places the pet in a cadaver transport bag…
Read MoreSir Henry’s Law
I’ll begin by saying I try to remove myself from politics whenever possible. There are inner powers at play that go beyond my comprehension, and when you know little of the mechanisms, it’s best to steer clear until you do. However, there are times to explore something deeper to understand why it exists and what…
Read MorePentobarbital Shortage Concerns 2021; Have no fear
Pentobarbital is almost back. Where has it been you ask? If you perform many euthanasias in your line of work, you know it’s been scarce for months, in the US and other parts of the world. Due to complications from COVID at one overseas factory (affecting the US supply), and a reported explosion at another…
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