A vet has shared an emotional message for pet owners facing the heartbreaking prospect of euthanising their pet, reminding them that the decision is an act of kindness rather than giving up.
Vet's message on euthanasia
Amir the vet, who shares advice with followers on TikTok, opened up about the difficult reality of losing a much-loved pet in a poignant video. The video caption reads: "I still see so many people who are reluctant to euthanise their pets. Many see euthanasia as giving up or not trying hard enough. But that's absolutely not what it is."
He continued: "Euthanasia is a tool we use only when it is absolutely necessary—only when we can no longer restore a pet's quality of life, and when the suffering they are likely to endure outweighs the value of the life they are still able to live. We recommend euthanasia only as a last resort, when there are no other options left. It is an act of kindness. Sometimes the right decision is also the hardest one. It hurts, but that doesn't make it the wrong decision."
Pet owners share their experiences
The video prompted a conversation in the comments, with one user saying: "Once he stopped playing fetch I knew it was time. The first time I threw the ball and he watched it then looked up me with sad eyes and laid his head back down."
Another added: "I had to make this decision two weeks ago and I would like to share something my brother said, with those of you who are going through this and may feel guilty sometimes. [He said], 'You showed her one last time how much you love her by taking her pain for yourself, you may be hurting now but she is at peace and not in pain anymore'. May all our furry angels run high over the rainbow in peace."
Alternative views and outcomes
A third user said: "My mum's vet immediately started talking euthanasia the second her 17-year-old cat was diagnosed with mammary gland cancer. She was absolutely fine in herself, purring, eating, drinking etc. My mum asked to do surgery instead even though it costs a lot more. That cat definitely has years left."
