Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Euthanasia leaflet gives guidance to pet owners
Chairman of the AWF Tiffany Hemming.
Chairman of the AWF Tiffany Hemming.

Sympathetic leaflet aims to demystify euthanasia

It is undoubtedly one of the most difficult decisions a pet owner will have to make; when to end your animal's suffering and have them euthanised.

A sympathetic guidance leaflet, that addresses the emotions owners may go through in making their decision, has now been produced by the Animal Welfare Foundation (AWF).

"Saying goodbye – the ultimate kindness’" is written by veterinary surgeons to help pet owners understand why euthanasia may be the most caring thing they can do for their pet and what choices they have.

It also demystifies what happens during euthanasia and what happens next.


Chairman of the AWF Tiffany Hemming, said: "As vets we often see pet owners struggle with letting their pet go when really it can be the kindest thing for the animal to be put to sleep. 
 


“Guilt may be the strongest emotion owners feel when making this decision and we wanted to guide owners through this difficult time in a sensitive way and encourage them to ask questions and work with the vet to help them come to terms with the end of their pet’s life.”
 


A copy of the leaflet can be downloaded here. 

 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue RZ extended across Scotland

The Scottish Government has announced an extension to a Bluetongue Restricted Zone that is in place in south-west Scotland.

From 3 October, the Restricted Zone will be extended to cover the whole of Scotland. The Animal, Plant and Health Agency (APHA) says this is in response to further disease spread, as well as simplify trading conditions ahead of the autumn.

Since the whole country will share a disease status, it will no longer be necessary to have a movement license to move susceptible livestock around the country. Restrictions on germinal products remain.

As of 1 October 2026, there were 1,979 cases of BTV-3 in England, 389 cases in Wales and 40 cases in Scotland.