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February 2005
- Eliot Kaplan, DVM -
Veterinary medicine has progressed a long way since I graduated from veterinary school almost 21 years ago. We have capabilities in the profession that were hardly thought possible two decades ago. But with these new capabilities comes new responsibilities. And the primary responsibility is to know when to stop. That is to say, both the veterinarian and owner of the pet must continually ask themselves, is medical intervention for the benefit of the pet‚s quality of life? If the answer is no, then intervention probably should be stopped and in some cases, euthanasia should be considered.
For instance, a cat in kidney failure may have a depressed appetite that could lead to severe malnutrition and suffering if ignored. The veterinarian can intervene by surgically placing a tube in the stomach or esophagus enabling the client to feed the cat through the tube. These tubes can be left in place for weeks to months---possibly longer if necessary. If this tube maintains or restores a good quality of life for the patient, then it is well worth it. Good quality of life means the patient is comfortable most of the time and derives some enjoyment out of life. It is a difficult thing to assess, which is why the veterinarian is there to help. If the tube merely keeps the cat alive longer, but the cat has no interest in life and simply sleeps 23 hours a day, then the tube placement might simply be an unintentional device of cruelty by prolonging a life that is of poor quality. Just because a heroic measure can be taken to save a pet‚s life does not always mean it should be taken.
But in many cases, it does not require a heroic measure to help restore or maintain a pet‚s quality of life. Sometimes it simply entails medication for a heart condition or for arthritis. Or maybe a special diet for a liver condition. And as the pet ages, more modalities may be required to maintain the quality of life of the animal. But it is the obligation of the owner to make sure these things are done with the help of the veterinarian. And in some circumstances, it will be a money issue. Economics is a major cause of euthanasia of our pets. Is that wrong? It is not for me to judge. But it is better for a pet to be euthanized than allowed to live in constant pain or without good quality of life. People should consider this before they acquire a pet and consider all aspects including the economics. |
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