Okuzeka
Veterinary Medicine vocabulary · Talking to Owners

Euthanasia

Meaning in veterinary medicine, with examples

/ˌjuːθəˈneɪziə/nounCore term

In veterinary medicine, euthanasia means: Ending an animal's life painlessly, usually with an overdose of an anaesthetic drug, to stop suffering that cannot be relieved.

In Turkish: ötanazi, uyutma

How it is used

The formal word for consent forms and records. With owners, vets usually say put to sleep (PTS in notes) and speak gently: Have you thought about what you'd like to do? Put down is more direct and can sound harsh.

Example sentences

  1. We talked about euthanasia, and the family would like to be with him at the end.

  2. Euthanasia was performed at the owner's request after the diagnosis of advanced cancer.

Common collocations

  • euthanasia consent
  • humane euthanasia
  • discuss euthanasia
  • elect euthanasia
  • home euthanasia
  • prognosisA vet's opinion about the likely course and outcome of a disease, for example whether the animal will recover and how long it may live.
  • consent formA document an owner signs to agree to a procedure such as surgery or anaesthesia after the risks, costs and alternatives have been explained.
  • animal welfareThe physical and mental state of an animal and how well its needs are met, including health, suitable food and shelter, normal behaviour and freedom from pain and fear.
  • clientThe owner or keeper who brings an animal to the vet, agrees to treatment and pays the bill. In veterinary work the animal is the patient and the person is the client.

More terms: Talking to Owners

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.