There are many sentiments that Heaven would not be Heaven if our animals are not there. This month, we are going to take a closer look at a topic that, as any animal lover will attest, induces heartbreak. We are going to discuss the options for the final care of our beloved animals. As stewards for the animals that are entrusted to us, we are periodically forced to decide to end their life, for any number of reasons. We owe it to our furry loved ones to provide them with a painless, fast, and dignified journey across the Rainbow Bridge. The veterinary community recognizes two methods of humane euthanasia (outside of the food animal supply chain)- lethal injection, and free projectile. Lethal injection is very commonly used with most animals, and it amounts to an overdose of a barbiturate compound. In other words, it is an overdose of anesthesia. A licensed veterinarian conducts this procedure, and it is highly regulated. Euthanasia by a free projectile is equally as humane if performed correctly. It involves the use of a firearm. This method is sometimes used with livestock, particularly when a major veterinary emergency has occurred, the animal's well-being is mortally compromised, and a veterinarian is not present. Most of us that own livestock have a firearm for this purpose should we need it. I had a horse that broke his femur in his paddock. I was not home, and when I received the call from my wife, I told her to call every vet that we knew, and to have my .38 ready. I would head home, and if I got there before the vet, I would have to dispatch my horse. I can't tell you the pain that this decision brings. One of our veterinarians arrived on our farm before me, so he provided Koop with final relief. There are other instances where I was put in the position to pull the trigger (I have been trained in proper technique), and the most daunting element of this method is how fast it occurs — enough about that.

After our animals leave their physical form, we are left with the decision of how to care for their remains. For livestock, rendering companies would often charge a fee to pick the animal up and dispose of it. In the Piedmont, this is no longer an option. Often, owners decide to bury the animal. It is wise to check with your local extension agent on the legalities of burying. In cases where a barbiturate is used, burial is not recommended (and technically, burying horses is illegal in Virginia). The chemical that is used in the euthanasia does not break down and will prove lethal to any wildlife that may dig up or consume the euthanized animal.

Furthermore, there exists a risk of contaminating the ground and groundwater as the animal decomposes. County landfills will often accept animal mortalities; however, regulations will vary by county. The final option is to have the animal cremated. There exist several local companies, such as In Memoriam Pet Services (based in Chantilly), that specialize in the dignified cremation of your pet- regardless of whether it is a goldfish or a draft horse. You may choose to have your animal's cremains returned to you, or these companies will dispose of them for you. There is a fee associated with this service, but for many bereaved owners, it is a comforting option. They offer transport from your property, or the office of your veterinarian, and will return the cremains to you within a week or so (should you choose to receive them back). They also offer several options if you would like to memorialize your animal.

Regardless of the circumstances, method, aftercare, or memorialization that we choose, we have to love, respect, and care for our furry family members. We are called to be their advocates, to hold their paw, hoof, or fin, right up until they enter the light.

Thank you for reading. I will see you in the field.