Clinical Veterinarian Perspectives on Euthanasia for Pets

The euthanasia of pets is a frequent discussion topic in veterinary practice. This study aimed to determine the levels of agreement with euthanasia decisions for pet animals by clinical veterinarians in different clinical scenarios; evaluate the differences in agreement levels according to species (including cats, dogs, and small mammals); and investigate the correlation between these decisions and demographic variables. The study sample consisted of 374 veterinarians actively practicing in clinical veterinary medicine in Türkiye. Data were collected via an online survey administered to the participants. The attitudes of participants toward euthanasia varied according to the animal species and case characteristics. The agreement with euthanasia decisions significantly varied in certain cases based on characteristics, such as the participants’ professional experience, pet ownership status, and prior experience with performing euthanasia. Thus, the euthanasia decision is a multidimensional process in which clinical, ethical, and individual factors are simultaneously evaluated. A detailed examination of the ethical, professional, and individual rationales underlying euthanasia decisions through qualitative studies is warranted based on the case scenarios used in this research, which can benefit pets, veterinarians, and animal owners.