Commentary: A reflection on the ways veterinarians cope with the death, euthanasia, and slaughter of animals

摘要

As medical caregivers for animals, we veterinarians must contend with a paradox that involves important issues between ourselves and animals. We have the power to restrain and manipulate animals for various reasons, yet we have the responsibility to do so in a way that does no harm--this introduces the paradox of the veterinarian's role in the life and death of animals. Veterinarians are trained to help in nature's healing process, but we also treat our patients with the knowledge that some of them will ultimately be slaughtered for human use. At other times, we are called upon to perform euthanasia, not always for humane or medical reasons. To be involved in these acts can be deeply disturbing. Equally disturbing can be the prolongation of an animal's life when its quality of life has been compromised, yet we lack the ability to relieve the suffering and the animal's owner is not yet willing to let go. Indeed, it appears, as others before me have said, that science has made us gods before we are even worthy of being humans.