Suffering and euthanasia.

Suffering is a powerful but elusive concept in veterinary medicine. Because the companion animal cannot talk, assessment of suffering requires the best judgment of veterinarian, family, and other interested participants. Determining whether euthanasia is appropriate rests on a similar consensus but is based on the entire medical and social situation. Clinicians need skill, sensitivity, and a well-developed sense of timing to uncover what clients really feel and want. Offering the family options, such as to be present during the euthanasia, makes the veterinarian's task easier and helps clients cope.