All euthanasia procedures will be performed humanely in accordance with recent American Veterinary Medical Association Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals.3 Neuromuscular blocking agents are NOT acceptable as euthanasia agents, even when combined with other drugs due to potentially inducing distressful paralysis in the MWD prior to the onset of unconsciousness. Death by asphyxiation or cranial blunt force trauma, among others, are unacceptable methods of euthanasia.

When possible, perimortem blood and urine samples should be collected for analysis IAW TB MED 283.4 The provider should collect one red top or serum tube of blood and one purple top or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tube of blood. Urine should be collected in a specimen cup or capped syringe.

MWD handlers should be permitted to be present for euthanasia if possible and deemed appropriate. The bond between handler and MWD cannot be overemphasized, and many handlers will want to be present. The MWD handler and the provider may require behavioral health care or grief counseling.