Open, frequent and constructive communication is one of the keys to sustainable success. Yet many clinics suffer from communication that is "broken." Broken communication tends to be more one-way than interactive; more talking than listening; more advocacy and less inquiry; and it has little room for integrating opposing points of view.

There is no time in veterinary care when compassion, education, and communication are more important than in euthanasia. The word, meaning “gentle death,” refers to the practice of ending a life in a painless manner, but the procedure is anything but painless for a client—or the veterinary staff. Thoughtful planning, conscious care, and full awareness of the client’s need for education and support can provide a truly “gentle death” for patients and support pet families through the difficult process.