The NSPCA is working towards a world in which no rehomable animal is put to sleep. However, the NSPCA accepts, with great reluctance, that there might be circumstances when euthanasia of an animal might be unavoidable.
- Euthanasia might be necessary on welfare grounds to prevent further suffering due to the animal being severely sick, injured or with a very poor prognosis for recovery or due to severe behaviour issues (which would make it unsafe to rehome).
- Animals with severe behavioural issues may be referred to behavioural experts for advice and guidance.
- The decision to euthanise any animal is never made easily or taken lightly.
- The decision to euthanise an animal is made by experienced staff in conjunction with veterinary practitioners.
- Where euthanasia is required, it is carried out only by a registered veterinary practitioner using approved humane methods.