Eddie's Doggy Daycare

Printing Policy 11.16: Euthanasia Policy on its own.

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Eddie's Doggy Daycare

Policy 11.16 — Eddie's Doggy Daycare, Paddock Farm, Harlow, Essex CM17 9HP

Euthanasia Policy

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Document Ref: EDDC-POL-022 | Category: Dog Welfare | Version: 2.0 Effective Date: October 2025 | Review Date: October 2026 | Owner: Edward Kirwan

Euthanasia Policy

Purpose

This policy provides clear, unequivocal guidance on Eddie's Doggy Daycare's position regarding euthanasia. It ensures that all staff understand their role and responsibilities in the event that a dog in our care becomes critically ill or sustains a life-threatening injury.

1. Policy Statement

Absolute Position

At Eddie's Doggy Daycare, we NEVER put a dog down. We are not veterinary professionals and are NOT qualified to make this decision. We do not hold, store, or have access to the equipment or medication necessary to euthanise a dog. Under no circumstances will any member of staff attempt or authorise euthanasia.

2. Critical Illness or Life-Threatening Injury Procedure

If a dog in our care becomes critically ill or sustains a life-threatening injury, the following procedure must be followed immediately:

  1. Assess the situation — ensure the safety of staff and other dogs. Do not attempt to move a severely injured dog unless they are in immediate danger (e.g., from fire or flood).
  1. Contact the registered vet immediately:
  • Kew Vets Harlow: 01279 422 066
  • Out of Hours: 01279 421 004
  • Describe the dog's condition clearly and follow any instructions given over the phone.
  1. Transport to the vet — if the vet advises that the dog needs to be brought in, transport them as carefully and gently as possible:
  • Use a blanket or stretcher for dogs that cannot walk
  • Drive calmly and directly to the vet — do not rush in a way that compromises road safety
  • Have a second staff member in the vehicle with the dog if possible
  1. Contact the owner — notify the dog's owner immediately. Explain the situation factually and calmly. Provide the name and address of the veterinary practice where the dog is being taken.
  1. Document — complete a full incident report on ProPet (EDDC-POL-020) with:
  • Time the issue was first noticed
  • Symptoms or injuries observed
  • Actions taken and timeline
  • Veterinary advice received
  • Owner communication log

3. End-of-Life Decisions

Any end-of-life decision is the sole responsibility of the dog's owner in consultation with a qualified veterinary professional. Eddie's staff will:

  • Support the owner with information about what occurred
  • Facilitate communication between the owner and the treating vet
  • Provide a safe, calm environment for the dog until the vet can take over care
  • Treat the situation with compassion and dignity

4. Staff Wellbeing

Dealing with a critically ill or injured dog is distressing for staff. Following any such incident:

  • The staff member(s) involved will be offered immediate support and, if needed, sent home for the remainder of the day
  • A debrief will be held with the manager within 24 hours
  • Staff will be signposted to wellbeing support resources if needed
  • No staff member will be criticised for showing emotion in these circumstances

Authorised By

Edward Kirwan — Owner & Company Director, Eddie's Doggy Daycare Limited Document Ref: EDDC-POL-022

Read and understood — staff name & signature

Date