So, what exactly is Behavioral Euthanasia?

 

According to Kate LaSala, professional dog trainer and behavior consultant, “Behavioral euthanasia is the humane ending of an animal’s life because the animal is suffering from severe behavioral issues, including aggression, fears, or anxiety. It is a difficult decision for any guardian to make, but it is sometimes the best option for both the animal and the family. It is not a decision made out of convenience, and it doesn’t necessarily mean the animal has mauled someone, or police or medical providers have been involved. Opting to euthanize an animal that has seriously injured or killed a person or animal seems reasonable to many people, but often behavioral euthanasia is done before there is serious harm. The decision about behavioral euthanasia is about risk assessment and quality of life, for both the animal and the humans.”

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Additionally, Dog Behavior Consultant, Erin Jones, explains, “Sometimes the cost associated with rehabbing an aggressive dog is just too high. Not just the financial cost (which yes, can be considerable) but the emotional and time cost as well. Different individuals may be at different points in their life when they need to contemplate how to handle their aggressive dog. Some are better suited to handle the emotional burden and stress than others. Some are interested in dog training and up for the challenge, while others are not.”

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There are many factors to consider when exploring behavioral euthanasia, including, in certain situations, seeking to place the pet in an environment better suited to meet their needs by minimizing the triggers it is exposed to. However, finding an appropriate home is not always easy. For more on rehoming, please refer to rehoming resources and consult with a professional who can help you properly assess your specific circumstances. The links below are EXCELLENT resources for learning more about this complex topic.

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articles.

Discussing Behavioral Euthanasia

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When Should an Aggressive Dog Be Euthanized?

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Euthanizing an Aggressive Dog and Dealing with the Guilt: How to Move Forward

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When Is It Time To Put Down a Dog Who Is Aggressive to People?

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When to Consider Behavioral Euthanasia

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audio.

A Conversation with Canine Behavior Consultant Kate LaSala on Behavioral Euthanasia

The Pet Loss Companion

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Behavioral Euthanasia With Dr. Chris Pachel

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When Love Means Letting Go: A Look At Behavioral Euthansia With Trish McMillan and Sue Alexander 

The Bitey End of the Dog

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​support.

Losing Lulu 

"Grieving behavioral euthanasia together" - Incredible resources and supportive community (see below for link to facebook group).​

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Lap of Love 

Among other support groups, Lap of Love offers a support group specifically for Behavioral Euthanasia.

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Kate LaSala, CTC, CBCC-KA, PCBC-A, CSAT, FFCP-E

Kate is a professional dog trainer and certified behavior consultant specializing in fear and aggression. She is also an end-of-life companion animal doula.  She offers support for end-of-life care decisions, as well as surrendering, re-homing, and behavioral euthanasia.

Her behavioral euthanasia specific link can be found here, where she explains what it is and provides additional resources

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Laura Cassiday - Certified Cat Behavior Consultant

In addition to training, Laura provides behavioral euthanasia consultations. Her non-judgmental approach can help you decide what is in the best interest of the cat and your family.

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facebook groups.

Losing Lulu

"This is our grief support and discussion group for those who have had an animal euthanized or die for behavioural reasons. We are an AFTER-THE-FACT grief support group. We DO NOT discuss living animals for whom behavioural euthanasia is being considered, and we NEVER give decision making or training advice."

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Behavior Euthanasia - Decisions and Support

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Sometimes Love's Not Enough; Dog Bite & Behavioral Euthanasia Support Group​

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essays by pet parents.

Guilt and Shame—Two Reasons Why No One Talks About Behavioural Euthanasia

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When Bonnie Came Home: Just before Christmas, I adopted a 6-year-old beagle. She was adorable—and violent. I found a resolution many choose but few acknowledge.​

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Euthanizing Aggressive Dogs: Sometimes Its the Best Choice

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The Rescue Dog That Couldn't Be Rescued