Using Phenobarbital to Euthanize a Dog: How Much Is the Right Dose?

Okay, so, this is a tough one, but a lot of pet owners eventually have to deal with it. Today, I had to put down my old dog, Buster. He's been with me for 15 years, and it was just his time. The vet told me the most humane way is using phenobarbital, so that's what we did.

First off, I called the vet this morning. Buster hadn't been eating, and he could barely walk anymore. I knew in my heart it was time, but I still needed to talk to the doc. We made the appointment for the afternoon. Man, that was a long morning. I spent it just sitting with Buster, petting him, and, yeah, crying a lot.

When we got to the vet, they were super nice. They took us into a quiet room and explained everything. They said they'd give Buster a sedative first, so he'd be relaxed and wouldn't feel anything. I stayed with him, holding his paw. He just looked at me with those tired old eyes, and I swear he knew. He licked my hand, and I just lost it again.

After the sedative kicked in, the vet came back and gave him the phenobarbital injection. They said it's an overdose of a barbiturate, which basically just shuts down the brain and heart. It was really quick. One moment he was just lying there, the next he was... gone. It was so peaceful, though. No pain, no struggle. Just like falling asleep.

The vet told me the dosage of phenobarbital depends on the dog's weight. For Buster, who was about 60 pounds, they used around 300mg. It's something like 100mg per 20 pounds of weight, but it can vary. The vet did all the calculations, so I didn't have to worry about that part. They also told me that it can be a little different based on the dog's health condition, which is why it's important not to try to do this yourself.

• Called the vet and made the appointment. That was the hardest phone call.
• Spent the morning with Buster. Lots of cuddles and tears.
• Went to the vet. They were super compassionate, which helped a lot.
• Sedative first. This made sure Buster was calm and didn't feel anything.
• Phenobarbital injection. It was quick and painless, just like falling asleep.
• Stayed with him the whole time. I held his paw until the very end.
• The vet used the calculated dose based on Buster's weight and condition. 300mg for my 60-pound buddy.

It's the hardest thing I've ever done, but I know it was the right thing. He's not suffering anymore. I'm going to miss him like crazy.

Losing a pet is losing a family member. It hurts so much, but I wouldn't trade the years I had with Buster for anything. If you're going through this, just know that it's okay to grieve. It's okay to cry. And it's okay to make the kindest choice for your furry friend, even when it's the hardest choice for you.