When it's obvious what needs to be done - how to do it?

[David d'Arcy]

Al just picked up a bird the other evening that must of flown head on into a car or something - for once I was absolutely sure the only right thing was to end it's pain quickly and permanently, but I had no way to do it in a way I would wish it done for me in similar circumstances.
I considered submerging it in warm water in a dark room (even though it was blind). I've heard that once a full breath of water is taken in, it is not uncomfortable and you continue to breath comfortably with out fighting, but there is no oxygen and you slowly black out. If it is dark and the water warm there will be less tendency to struggle, as the creature won't be in any discomfort.
...Or maybe not.

Does anyone know more about this?

This bird was dead in the morning before I could take it to be put to sleep. I had put it on MetaCam painkillers and given fluids from the moment it was brought to me, but as I knew what the outcome must be I felt I was denying it relief in death, not saving it's life or helping it die comfortably.
What should I have done?

Dave

[Pidgey]

You know, Dave, I've never had to do that and it's a tough question more, I think, due to various people's beliefs about death as a process than anything else. When death comes ultra-swift, it really doesn't matter although the idea of going blissfully in your sleep with no comprehension is a heckuva' lot prettier thought than getting your head blown off with a shotgun (even in your sleep).

If you personally want to prepare for this eventuality in what would probably be the most generally well-accepted way (amongst rehabbers) then you might consider getting ?Karen? to show you how and provide you with the necessary items to gracefully put them to sleep with a narcotic for the purpose.

I suggest that because there are always two beings' feelings in a case like this: the ill/injured one AND the survivor (you) who must live with it.

Pidgey

[Trees Gray]

David,

I'm so sorry to hear about this bird, and the that the idea of putting this bird down needed to be addressed here, by you.

While I feel terrible for the poor bird, and for those who come across such horrific injuries, I do believe the decision was made for you. If the bird died before you had a chance to take the bird to the vet, then everything was done that could have been done. You did everything you could for this bird and it died. Did you not provide the bird with pain killers to relieve its suffering?

Every case is different and I understand your questioning us, but I would not go about doing anything you suggested as that would put the bird thru more needless suffering. Only a veternarian or one who is qualified, should put a bird to sleep, and only in extreme cases that qualify, as the bird you had.

If you feel the need to address this any further, please e-mail, or private message me.

[LikeKudzu]

Originally Posted by David d'Arcy

Al just picked up a bird the other evening that must of flown head on into a car or something - for once I was absolutely sure the only right thing was to end it's pain quickly and permanently, but I had no way to do it in a way I would wish it done for me in similar circumstances.
I considered submerging it in warm water in a dark room (even though it was blind). I've heard that once a full breath of water is taken in, it is not uncomfortable and you continue to breath comfortably with out fighting, but there is no oxygen and you slowly black out. If it is dark and the water warm there will be less tendency to struggle, as the creature won't be in any discomfort.
...Or maybe not.

Does anyone know more about this?

This bird was dead in the morning before I could take it to be put to sleep. I had put it on MetaCam painkillers and given fluids from the moment it was brought to me, but as I knew what the outcome must be I felt I was denying it relief in death, not saving it's life or helping it die comfortably.
What should I have done?

Dave

I think you should feel good about your decision in deciding not to submerge the bird in water and drown him or her. I am sure the bird would have been terrified in his or her final moments to be submerged in water, as her lungs and air sacs fill up with water. It is my understanding that even the AVMA which sometimes approves particularly egregious means of euthanasia does not think drowning is an acceptable means of euthanasia for birds.

Since you live in New York City, it is my understanding that the Animal Medical Center (which is a 24 hour facility) will euthanize pigeons for free. Most cities have clinics like this in their area.

[naturegirl]

Well Dave I think you had a tough call and made the right decision to not do what you were thinking of doing in the first place. Even the Animal Control will do it. You can also ask your local vet what to do if in this case again and no one is around to help you with this matter. I take mine to my Vet who does it for me and after words I bury them in a peacefull spot. Anyone who has animals or rehabbing has to come and make those decisions at one time or another I am very sorry this had to happen to you. I am glad she/he passed peacefully in her sleep