Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why did my dog yelp during euthanasia? Was it painful or sciatic nerve?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 14 years and 1 month old | 31 lbs

Please help us understand what happened ? Yesterday we took our dog to be put down because she has kidney failure. We were told the procedure would be without pain, humane and peaceful. The vet gave our very sick dog a shot in her leg and she yelped very loud...almost a scream and then cried and wiggled for what seemed like an eternity. We tried to comfort her but the shot took effect quickly and she was asleep. Did they hit her sciatic nerve ? Why didn't they use an IV for the meds.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

Veterinarian

Published on October 13th, 2017

The sciatic nerve is quite deep within the muscle bellies and would be difficult, but not impossible, to accidentally hit when performing an intramuscular injection. Without more information as to the specific injection technique used, I cannot say for sure if this is what occurred. It is more likely that the medications used may have burned as they were injected (much like when we get an injection). It is also possible that Sadie’s illness and discomfort made her more sensitive to the injection. My sincerest condolences for your loss.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there and thank you for using pet coach to address your concern. I am so sorry to hear that you had to make this decision as it is a difficult one to make. With time, you will find it easier to cope with the loss of your beloved sadie. I lost my dog back in June and he was 20yrs old...quite a life and making that decision was so difficult for me. What you are describing is something that we do see happen sometimes. For whatever reason, some of the injectable medications burn as they go into a vein and this can be quite uncomfortable for a brief moment for the animal. Sometimes some of the medication will leak around the vein into the tissue and this can cause a burning sensation as well. Depending on the drugs used as well can also affect how the animal reacts. This is not unusual and can happen sometimes. I am sorry to hear that Sadie was in discomfort for a brief moment as we all wish our pets to pass away peacefully and not in pain. The main thing is that she is no longer suffering from her disease and is no longer in pain. Again, please accept my condolences for the loss of sadie. I'm sure she was a wonderful friend and you have her a long happy life.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored