Avoid Horrible Death

[Sampson's Mom]

Jean,
I am so sorry that you had to go through this. It's hard enough to lose a pet, but the have such a terrible experience only makes it worse. Try to remember that you gave Pandora a wonderful life and lots of love...that is what she will remember. She's at the bridge playing with all of our babies that went before her and the pain is gone. Please take care of yourself. I know how hard it is.

Lisa

[pandora's daddy]

Jean,
First off, what a great mane for your rottie. I'm so sorry for what you had to go through. We had the misfortune of going to a bad vet, but nothing compared to what you experienced. Our first vey wasn't afraind of big dogs, he was just a dumba**. I would tell everyone you know that goes to this vet. Once the word starts to spread, I bet they change their policies right away.

[haligen]

Jean,

I'm so sorry to hear about your experience. I hope you do everything in your power to inform the general public about their cruelty. I would really hate for that "doc" to get ahold of anyone else's loved ones. There is never an excuse to be cruel, big dog, little dog, cat, ferret, fish, whatever the animal. We have to look out for those that can't do it for themselves. -Rob

[Rottnlove]

Jean,

I'm new to this board. I know how difficult it is. Especially in your case. One thought that crossed my mind was: How is this so called "Dr." even practising? If he is afraid of big dogs, he needs to do something else. Please try to move on, always remember how much joy and happiness Pandora brought. I'm very sorry for your loss.

Lisa

[Keri]

Hi Jean,
May you keep all the good memories you have of Pandora with you forever. She is at peace now and I truly believe that you will meet again when your time comes. I would like to inquire if you have found out which vet college or board this idiot is licensed with and file a formal complaint with them. Not only should they investigate but they should drag the moron in for a proper hearing. Good luck and stick it to that shoddy vet practice.

[TrishB]

Dear Jean,

First of all, I'd like to extend to you my deepest sympathy for your loss of Pandora. It sounds as if you two were a wonderful pair and were lucky to have found each other.

I worked in veterinary practices for 9 years. During that time, I have assisted in 100's of euthanasias. It was always heartbreaking to assist in the taking of a life. However, more times than not, it was the right, and humane thing to do. But that doesn't make it any easier.

Veterinarians that are afraid of a particular size of animal or breed should not administer care to them. I worked with one such doctor. He was uncomfortable with large breeds; his stress was evident in the way he handled them. I purposely booked large breeds to our other veterinarian.

I personally have had to tell vets to stop and to wait for a colleague to continue treatment. I took the responsibility of the animal's care and placed it at the very top of my priorities.

There is no reason that:

1) An animal cannot receive a sedative before euthanasia.
2) A client cannot ask for another veterinarian and / or assistant.
3) A catheter cannot be set before administering the euthanol (or equivalent).
4) That the office should be quiet when such an appointment is made.
5) The staff should be not be trained and prepared.
6) If an animal is struggling, another dose of sedative should be administered.
7) A veterinarian should always discuss concerns personally with a client.

All of the above SHOULD happen – there is NO reason for it not to. These are not services that would be described as ‘above and beyond’. This is basic level; simple requirements for this type of service. Euthanasia is NOT a service where a clinic should be cutting costs and getting the 'cheap' stuff which is too thick to be effective (in my opinion).

Write to the governing body (OVC in Ontario). State your concerns. Write a letter to your local paper.

This is not a situation, which should ever be complicated by outside sources. I am truly sorry for your loss.