The Assisted Dying Bill is currently under debate in UK Parliament, with strong public support but also deep ethical concerns. But one profession has been left out of the discussion - veterinary surgeons.

As someone who has performed euthanasia countless times, I ask:

Should vets have a voice in this debate?

In this episode of The Consult Room, I explore:

• The key provisions of the Assisted Dying Bill and its potential impact.

• How euthanasia decisions in veterinary medicine differ from human assisted dying.

• Why quality of life plays a central role in veterinary end-of-life care—but not in the current human model.

• The emotional burden of euthanasia—on vets, doctors, and families.

• Whether vets’ expertise in assessing suffering could offer valuable insights into this complex debate.

This is a sensitive, thought-provoking discussion about life, death, and dignity—through the lens of a profession that makes these decisions every day.

💡 Takeaways:

• The Assisted Dying Bill proposes medical assistance for terminally ill adults.

• Public support remains strong, with 75% in favour.

• Unlike human medicine, veterinary euthanasia is based on suffering and quality of life, not just terminal illness.

• Ethical concerns include coercion, emotional burden on doctors, and patient autonomy.

• Vets have extensive experience in assessing pain, suffering, and end-of-life decisions.

• The veterinary profession has not been consulted in the Assisted Dying Bill discussions.
• The debate raises critical questions about how we define suffering and dignity in both human and animal medicine.

🔗 Related Links and Resources:

• UK Parliament Assisted Dying Bill Overview

• Dignity in Dying – Public Campaign for Assisted Dying

• Royal College of Physicians – Assisted Dying Position

• BVA Ethics Discussion on End-of-Life Decision Making

  
  

📲 Engage With Us:
💬 What’s your take on the Assisted Dying Bill? Should vets have a say in this debate? Let me know in the comments.

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For more insights on topics like this, connect with me on social media @‌DrPaulTheVet or visit theconsultroom.co.uk.