Euthanizing companion animals is a familiar part of our culture, and it occurs at the veterinary hospital, the home, or the animal shelter. Animals deemed too sick or unable to return to society are often euthanized in shelters, and the numbers remain high in many communities, high enough to place a significant burden on the staff. Outcomes like adoption and rehoming are the goal, but there are times when euthanasia may be necessary. Have you veterinarians ever considered using your euthanasia skills to help at the local animal shelter? I have, and I’m honored to lend my expertise.
Since 2022, I’ve volunteered two afternoons a week to help with shelter euthanasia appointments. Because of my extensive background in peaceful euthanasia work, the local shelter asked if I’d be willing to step in periodically or on a set schedule. I think they also assumed that anyone who dedicates their professional career to euthanasia can handle the emotional toll. My role would be to help with the euthanasia of both intake animals (those being cared for by shelter staff) and privately owned animals through what’s known as “owner-requested” euthanasia. Owners may relinquish their pets to the shelter for immediate euthanasia due to poor health or extreme behavior conditions. These appointments are scheduled into the calendar so shelter staff is prepared to receive them.
The relationship started with a phone call of interest and a tour of the shelter to see the euthanasia spaces. I was encouraged to ask questions and get a complete picture of what volunteering would entail. My first impression was how relieved they were that I was willing to consider the idea. Everyone was stretched thin, and an additional person helping with the challenging task of euthanasia would make a big difference. I was offered a small but reasonable fee for my services, or I could do the work strictly as a volunteer as an act of goodwill. The shelter would provide all drugs and supplies, including controlled substances, that they would order and monitor. I could bring some of my own supplies, like my preferred tourniquet and stethoscope, if I chose to.
Expectations for a Relief Euthanasia Veterinarian
- Work in tandem with a shelter staff member.
- Follow the shelter euthanasia protocols.
- Treat personnel with respect and appreciation.
- Assist with protocol improvements if asked.
- Help make paw print keepsakes and prepare bodies for aftercare.
- Be flexible and patient.
Upon saying yes to giving it a try, I would come to learn just how important my presence was to the shelter staff. Those of us who understand the complexities of euthanasia and who do it well tend to be a source of strength for everyone in the room. While my mission was to provide smooth and reliable euthanasia procedures for my patients, my secondary goal was to protect the mental health of those around me. Spending time in the euthanasia room is unpleasant for most shelter personnel who would rather be helping with adoptions and more positive outcomes. Volunteering my time meant I was ending the suffering of my patients while genuinely improving the lives of the humans around me.
If working at the local animal shelter speaks to you, call them and ask if they need your skills. Share your availability (you pick your schedule) and see if it’s a match. My guess is they will be thrilled to try things out with you.
Learn more about the growing need for euthanasia support in animal shelters.
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