Saying Goodbye: Understanding Pet Euthanasia and the 5H2M Quality of Life Scale
- Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic
- Jun 11
- 4 min read
At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we know that deciding to say goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult and emotional decisions a family can make. Euthanasia is never easy, but in certain situations, it is the kindest and most compassionate option when a pet is suffering and quality of life can no longer be maintained.
Our goal is to help you navigate this decision with empathy, information, and support — because no one should face it alone.
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What Is Euthanasia?
Euthanasia is the process of gently and humanely ending a pet’s life to relieve suffering. It is usually performed by administering a sedative to help your pet relax, followed by a painless injection that causes the heart to stop. Most pets pass away within moments, calmly and peacefully.
Owners may choose euthanasia when a pet is experiencing unmanageable pain, terminal illness, progressive cognitive decline, or has lost the ability to enjoy daily life. It is a deeply personal decision, made out of love and a desire to prevent further suffering.
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How Do I Know When It’s Time?
One of the most difficult parts of this process is knowing when the “right time” has come. Many pet owners fear waiting too long — or acting too soon. That’s why veterinarians often use tools like the 5H2M Quality of Life Scale, developed by Dr. Alice Villalobos, a respected veterinary oncologist and hospice care advocate.
This scale helps caregivers evaluate a pet’s overall well-being by focusing on seven essential categories: Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, and More Good Days Than Bad.
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The 5H2M Quality of Life Scale
Use the following questions as a guide to reflect on your pet’s daily comfort and overall quality of life. Many families find it helpful to score each category from 0 to 10 (with 10 being excellent and 0 being very poor). A total score above 35 often indicates acceptable quality of life, while a score below 35 may suggest that euthanasia should be considered.
Hurt Is your pet in pain that cannot be managed with medication or supportive care? Are they struggling to breathe or move comfortably?
Hunger Is your pet eating willingly? Are they losing interest in food, refusing meals, or experiencing weight loss?
Hydration Can your pet stay hydrated without assistance? Are they drinking on their own, or requiring fluid therapy?
Hygiene Is your pet able to stay clean and dry? Are they soiling themselves or developing sores due to immobility or incontinence?
Happiness - Does your pet still show interest in people, toys, walks, or daily activities? Or have they withdrawn, become anxious, or listless?
Mobility - Can your pet get up and move around without assistance? Are they able to go outside to eliminate? Are they struggling with pain, falls, or weakness?
More Good Days Than Bad - Looking at your pet’s recent days or weeks, are there more good days than bad ones? Are there still moments of joy, appetite, or energy? Or are most days filled with discomfort, disinterest, or distress?
This tool is not meant to provide a definitive answer but can help guide meaningful conversations with your veterinarian and family. We also encourage keeping a daily journal to monitor patterns in your pet’s behaviour and comfort.
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What to Expect During the Euthanasia Process
If you decide euthanasia is the most compassionate choice for your pet, we will walk with you every step of the way. At our clinic, the process is designed to be peaceful, respectful, and tailored to your comfort and your pet’s needs.
You will have time to say goodbye.
A gentle sedative is usually administered first to ensure your pet is calm and relaxed.
The final injection is quick and painless. Most pets pass within moments, appearing to drift off to sleep.
You may stay with your pet throughout, or step out — whatever feels right for you.
After your pet has passed, we will guide you through aftercare options, including private or communal cremation, paw prints, fur clippings, or other keepsakes.
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Coping with Loss
The grief that follows a pet’s death is very real. Whether you feel sadness, guilt, or even relief, your emotions are valid. Some people find comfort in creating memorials, writing letters to their pet, or talking with others who have been through a similar experience. If you or your family members are struggling with grief, we are happy to provide resources or recommend support services that specialize in pet loss.
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We’re Here for You
At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we understand how deeply you love your pets. We consider it an honour to help families make end-of-life decisions with compassion, clarity, and care. If you are struggling to assess your pet’s quality of life or wondering if it may be time to consider euthanasia, please reach out. We are here to listen, answer your questions, and support you through this emotional journey.
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You don’t have to go through this alone. North Vancouver Vet
