Euthanasia. The term comes from the Greek: ‘good death’.

Last week, our dog Lucy was euthanized. At 20 years of age, she had become frail, sick, and immobile. We had the pleasure of Lucy’s company for 18 years, having rescued her from a kill shelter. We have lots of great memories and photos from our years together. 

But the time came for her merciful departure. We called a veterinarian who specializes in euthanasia at home. The doctor was experienced in such matters. She had what we call ‘great bedside manner’ with Lucy and a sensitive spirit with my wife and me. She took her time and included our other dog in the process.

Lucy was in her own bed. We gave her a last piece of chicken to eat, and the doctor proceeded to sedate her and finally to inject her with a medicine that would stop her heart. It was gentle, peaceful, and loving. We like to think she’s the leader of the pack somewhere in the new heavens and new earth.

This experience has led me to believe that providing a ‘good death’ is a right and merciful act for a human being who is in their final stage of life and experiencing intractable suffering. 

Some people may argue against taking one’s own life through professional assistance. But I think it is an act of mercy and love to care in such a way about a person. 

The Bible doesn’t give definitive guidance. It is, I believe, within God’s will for us to be merciful to another life by assisting that person in dying.

It is what I would want.