Table 2 Veterinarian’s agreement with 26 normative and descriptive statements in the context of euthanasia in small animal practice

S14^a

It would be difficult for me to euthanize an animal against my conviction.

9 (9;9)

S17^a

Treating the owners in an understanding way is a central part of euthanasia.

9 (9;9)

S16

Treating the dead animal in a respectful way is an important part of euthanasia.

9 (8;9)

S11^a

Effective analgesia makes it easier for me to deal with the animal’s suffering.

9 (8;9)

S10

It is easier for me to deal with euthanasia if the procedure is carried out according to the best technical standards.

9 (8;9)

S1

It is easier for me to deal with the animal’s suffering if I know that I have done my best for its well-being.

9 (7;9)

S26^a

I see reflected euthanasia as a central part of my practice as a vet.

9 (7;9)

S5^a

Knowing that all veterinary medical, social and economic options have been considered makes it easier for me to deal with euthanasia.

9 (7;9)

S3

It is easier for me to deal with euthanasia if the owner has been well informed.

9 (7;9)

S21

It is easier for me to deal with euthanasia if I know that I have done my best for the animal’s well-being.

8 (7;9)

S12

It is easier for me to deal with the animal’s suffering if the owner has been well informed.

8 (5.75;9)

S13^a

It is easier for me to deal with euthanasia if the animal has lived a rich live until its death.

8 (5;9)

S9^a

Careful planning and the right moment make it easier for me to deal with euthanasia.

7 (5;9)

S2^a

It is easier for me to deal with euthanasia if I know that the animal would only have lived on for a short time.

7 (5;9)

S24^a

The animal’s advanced (high) age makes it easier for me to deal with euthanasia.

7 (5;8)

S22

I see euthanasia as an unavoidable evil in my responsibility.

7 (4;9)

S4

It is easier for me to deal with euthanasia if the owner is satisfied about the way his animal has been euthanized.

5 (2;9)

S8^a

I am still not used to euthanizing animals.

5 (2;8)

S18

Retrospectively, it becomes easier for me to deal with euthanasia.

5 (2;7)

S15

It mostly causes more problems if the owners are present.

3 (1;6)

S7

It is easier for me to deal with euthanasia if the owners are present during the procedure.

3 (1;5)

S23

Knowing that my influence on the owner’s decision is limited makes it easier for me to deal with euthanasia.

3 (1;5)

S20

Although I would reject euthanasia, I euthanize the animal because I am afraid that the owner will kill it himself.

2 (1;6)

S19

It is more difficult for me to euthanize an animal that does not have an owner (if all the other conditions are the same).

2 (1;5)

S6^a

It is easier for me to euthanize an animal if I see that the owner does not have a close relationship to his animal.

2 (1;5)

S25

Although I would reject euthanasia, I euthanize the animal because I am afraid that the owner will see another vet.

1 (1;1)