Euthanasia of animals guide

Recent advances in surgery and pharmaceuticals have greatly increased the treatment options available to vets. In addition, euthanasia of an animal is an important part of veterinary work. Both of these situations can involve difficult decisions.

Euthanasia does not include the slaughter of animals for human consumption or killing for sport. Euthanasia of an animal is an important part of veterinary work, although legally it is not an act of veterinary surgery.

Last revision: 2016                
Edition: 2
Publisher: BVA
Number of pages: 6
Format: PDF

 This guide includes:

• legal aspects
• quality of life and euthanasia
• decision outcomes
• decision tree
• further reading

Related BVA guides

• The role of the vet in treatment choice

RCVS Code of Professional Conduct

• The RCVS Code of Professional Conduct, supporting guidance 8, gives advice for vets on euthanasia of animals

Guides for pet owners

• Animal Welfare Foundation guide 'Saying goodbye - the ultimate kindness' will tell pet owners everything they need to know about euthanasia, what to expect and the choices they will have