I will definitely be getting a copy for my clinic!

Cat optic discs are usually round, and pink/dark. Dogs have triangle-ish discs that are white/light. Cats also do not have vessels that cross over the disc. There are always exceptions but these “rules” are fairly reliable.

I wouldn’t say it is common but I see a few per year.

As the holidays arrive, we will be asked to euthanize more pets than usual. Sometimes we will have to say no. But I urge us all to take a moment and assess each situation on its own. We have the power to make a difficult time a slightly better one.

I get more thank you cards after euthanasia than I do when I save a life. At first it bothered me. But then I realized it is an honor to make such a difficult time easier. Often owners whose first time meeting me was for a euthanasia bring their new pets to me.
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Euthanasia isn't cowardly. It isn't wrong nor does it mean we failed. It is the most unselfish, final, loving act that we can do for our pets. If owners want to be present they are welcome. If they don't, there is never judgement. Why? Because I know that the pets get the same treatment regardless
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This dog was not ever going to be cured. He was at the end of his life even without cancer and we were at best buying him weeks. And no one had ever told this man we could stop at any time. Are there cases when it is wrong? Yes. But there are more cases when it is avoided when it shouldn't be.
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But is it best for this patient? This owner? I cannot even count the number of times I have seen patients for 2nd or 3rd opinions and I have told owners that euthanasia is an option. One elderly man had broke down in the room because he could not afford to continue chemo for his dog and his wife.
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