Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 8/10/2008

Question
How can you tell if a dog is dead? Are open eyes and a protruding tongue classic symptoms? I touched the dog's eye and there was no reflex action, does that indicate death? I recently had my dog euthanized, and for some inexplicable reason I've been worrying that she may have still been alive (I saw no signs of breathing). I was not present for the euthanization, which I now deeply regret. I'm no longer in possession of the dog, as I had her cremated. Please help, this has been bothering me recently.

Answer
Ray -

It seems to me that you are not really dealing with whether your dog was dead, but are dealing with grief or guilt associated with your pet being euthanized.  You  said that he was not breathing and there was no eyelid reflex when you touched his eye.  The definitive sign of death is the absence of a heartbeat.  The fact that his tongue was protruding from his mouth  and the eyelids are nonresponsive are indications that your pet was at least near death.  I cannot say whether or not he was dead because I was not there to listen to the heart.  

If a veterinary profession euthanized your dog, you can assume that he was dead when he was cremated.  I am also sure that he was cared for with the upmost respect.    I understand your apprehension and the questions;  do not worry, both are normal reactions when dealing with the death of a pet.  Time heals all wounds; as time passes you will be able to celebrate the life of your pet and enjoy his memories.


Good Luck -

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM