Euthanasia from the Veterinary Client's Perspective: Psychosocial Contributors to Euthanasia Decision Making .

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Welfare
• Human-Animal Bond

Background:

• Veterinarian's role in end-of-life decision-making for companion animals is crucial.
• Limited research exists on client-specific variables influencing euthanasia decisions.
• Understanding owner perspectives is vital for providing effective support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify client-related factors contributing to euthanasia decisions for companion animals.
• To explore the relationship between caregiver burden, psychological distress, and financial status with euthanasia consideration.
• To determine which client factors predict euthanasia decisions when controlling for the animal's quality of life.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study examining client variables.
• Statistical analysis including correlation and regression models.
• Assessment of caregiver burden, anticipatory grief, depression, stress, and income.

Main Results:

• Caregiver burden, anticipatory grief, depression, stress, and income positively correlated with euthanasia decision-making.
• In regression analysis, only caregiver burden and income remained significant predictors.
• All components of caregiver burden (general strain, affective/relational discomfort, guilt/uncertainty) were linked to euthanasia consideration.

Conclusions:

• Caregiver burden and income are key predictors of companion animal euthanasia decisions.
• Veterinarians should assess these factors to better support clients.
• Further research into the human-animal bond and end-of-life care is warranted.