Assessment

If an MWD is experiencing undue suffering (a medical condition constituting an immediate threat to life with no response to treatment), the attending provider (either human healthcare provider or veterinarian) has decision-making authority to perform an emergent euthanasia. A human healthcare provider should only perform euthanasia in a combat environment. Prior consultation with the MWD Accountable Unit Commander (AUC) and the senior command veterinarian, or their designated representatives, is not required in these cases. Attempts should be made to receive verbal approval from them when possible.

For non-emergent euthanasia, the attending provider must consult with the senior command veterinarian or their designated representative (AOC 64F Veterinary Clinical Medicine Officer). The MWD AUC has decision making authority for final disposition and will provide their decision in writing to the senior veterinarian following consultation.1,2