What is the Church's position on animal euthenasia?

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stoneman2k

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This seems like a silly, unimportant question, but I can’t help but ask.

I had the unfortunate responsibility of taking our very old and sick dog to the veterinarian to be put to sleep. I am a new Catholic (Aug. 2007) and I was wondering if the Church has a position on euthanizing animals? She died peacefully, but I had the sense she wanted to live. I am very disturbed by the whole situation, and I don’t think I could ever do it again.
 
Hi,

Morality is not based on feeling, but on right reason. Animals are not human beings. While we are obligated to treat them in a humane way, we are not to put them on the same level with human beings. Many in our culture do–including some who have no problem with the killing of unborn human babies.

I can understand your sorrow at the death of a beloved pet. But you actually did it a favor. Prolonging its suffering would be pointless. Unlike a human being, it cannot unite its sufferings with the Lord’s as and act of worship and love.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.
 
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