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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

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.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
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.
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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