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…
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…
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…
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…
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 There are a variety of resources on the internet, however many of them are out of date…
Read MoreEuthanasia Comfort Rooms
A pet owner once asked me what the most important thing in my euthanasia comfort rooms was. Kleenex was my response. The floor could be dirt and the room cold;…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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