When a beloved pet is suffering from terminal illness or extreme pain, pet euthanasia (medically-aided ending of life) is often the most compassionate choice. This English guide explains the law in Greece, when to consider euthanasia, what it costs, how the procedure works, and what to do next.
Note: The decision to euthanise must always be made in consultation with a veterinarian. Greek version: Ευθανασία Κατοικιδίου.
Is Pet Euthanasia Legal in Greece?
Yes, fully legal when:
- Performed by a licensed veterinarian.
- With the written consent of the owner.
- For a medically justified reason (uncontrollable pain, terminal illness).
This is governed by Law 4830/2021 on animal welfare. Euthanasia is not legal for:
- Owner convenience (moving house, allergies, cost of pet’s care).
- Behavioural issues without medical basis.
- “I don’t want this animal anymore” — that’s abandonment, a criminal offence.
When to Consider Euthanasia
The hardest part is knowing when. The widely-used HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale by Dr. Alice Villalobos rates 7 factors (10 points each, total 70):
- Hurt (Pain) — Is pain controlled?
- Hunger — Is the pet eating?
- Hydration — Drinking enough water?
- Hygiene — Can the pet stay clean?
- Happiness — Showing pleasure or interest?
- Mobility — Can the pet stand, walk, eat independently?
- More good days than bad — If under 50%, consider seriously.
Score under 35 suggests significantly reduced quality of life.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Constant pain not controlled by medication.
- No appetite for 24-48+ hours.
- Difficulty breathing at rest.
- Uncontrollable incontinence.
- Repeated crises (seizures, bloody vomit).
- Neurological collapse (can’t stand, confusion).
- Complete withdrawal from family.
- Chronic suffering with no prospect of improvement.
Common Situations Leading to Euthanasia
- Advanced cancer with mets, uncontrolled pain.
- Kidney/liver failure end-stage.
- Neurological seizure disorders, dementia (cognitive dysfunction).
- Severe trauma with no realistic recovery.
- Advanced age with multiple compounding issues.
Cost of Pet Euthanasia in Greece
Indicative ranges:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| In-clinic euthanasia (small animal) | €50-100 |
| In-clinic euthanasia (large animal) | €80-150 |
| At-home euthanasia (in Athens/Thessaloniki/Patras) | €150-300 |
| Night/weekend emergency | +30-50% |
This does NOT include subsequent cremation or burial — see Pet cremation in Greece for total end-of-life costs.
The Procedure
Before
- Discussion with vet about diagnosis and prognosis.
- Written consent form signed by owner.
- Payment of vet fees.
- Choice of location: clinic or home (if vet offers).
The Procedure Itself
- Sedation injection: pet relaxes within minutes. No fear or anxiety.
- Euthanasia drug (typically pentobarbital) injected into a vein.
- Cardiac arrest: 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
- Death confirmed by vet.
Total time: 5-15 minutes.
Your Presence
You have every right to stay with your pet. Many vets actively encourage it:
- Calms the animal.
- Allows your final goodbye.
- Helps psychological processing.
If you can’t bear it, stepping outside is fine — no shame.
At-Home Pet Euthanasia in Greece
Some vets in Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras and a few other cities offer home euthanasia.
Advantages
- Pet in familiar surroundings.
- No stress of clinic transport.
- All family members can be present.
- More peaceful atmosphere.
Disadvantages
- Higher cost (typically €150-300).
- Fewer vets offer this service.
- May not be available on islands or remote areas.
How to Find One
- Ask your regular vet — many provide this for long-term clients.
- Search “κτηνίατρος στο σπίτι” + your area.
- Online directories of Greek vets often note home services.
What Comes Next
After euthanasia, you need to decide on body handling:
Option 1: Cremation
- Communal: cheapest, no ashes returned.
- Individual: ashes returned in an urn.
- Coordinated through the vet (or you can choose your own facility).
- See: Pet cremation in Greece.
Option 2: Burial in a Licensed Pet Cemetery
- 2-year term with renewal option.
- Allows grave visits.
- Mainly available in Athens (Koropi/Megara), Thessaloniki (Vasilika), Larissa.
Option 3: Burial on Private Land
- Not clearly legal/illegal in Greece — depends on local rules.
- See: Can I bury my pet in my garden? (Greek).
Emotional Considerations
Before the Decision
- Don’t decide alone if married/in family — all members deserve a voice.
- Get a second opinion if you have doubts.
- Don’t rush unless pet is acutely suffering.
- Think about the pet, not yourself — our love can prolong their suffering.
During the Procedure
- Touch and speak to your pet — your voice calms them.
- Bring a favourite item (blanket, toy).
- You don’t need to be brave — crying is normal.
After
- Give yourself time to grieve.
- You’re not a murderer — you’re a responsible owner who made a generous choice.
- Pet loss grief is real — see Pet loss support (Greek).
What NOT to Do
Don’t Delay for Wrong Reasons
- “I can’t bear to lose them” → prolongs their suffering.
- “Let’s get to one more Christmas” → if they’re suffering now, they won’t enjoy it.
- “Maybe they’ll improve” → terminal diagnosis means they probably won’t.
Don’t Rush for Wrong Reasons
- Moving house → find a pet-friendly home.
- New relationship → relationships should respect existing family.
- Cost → consider euthanasia + cremation total budget; talk to vet about payment options.
- Behaviour problems → consult an animal behaviourist first.
Talking to Children
If you have children, involve them honestly:
- Use direct language (“euthanise”, “die”) — not “put to sleep” which creates fear of sleep.
- Explain it’s a final goodbye to spare suffering.
- Let them participate in saying goodbye if they wish.
- Honour their grief afterward.
See: Children and pet loss (Greek with universal advice).
FAQ
Does the procedure hurt my pet? No. The sedation injection removes any fear/pain before the euthanasia drug is given.
Can I change my mind? Yes, up until the euthanasia drug is administered. The vet will respect any change of heart.
How long does the appointment take? The actual procedure is 5-15 minutes. Total appointment with discussion, paperwork and goodbye time is usually 30-60 minutes.
Will my pet know what’s happening? They will feel relaxed from sedation. There’s no awareness of the second injection.
Should I bring other pets? This is debated. Some experts recommend it (helps them understand the death). Others discourage it. Discuss with your vet.
Will I be told the body’s “weight” or other details? Yes, the vet provides cremation paperwork with details that may include weight, microchip number, breed.
Summary
Pet euthanasia in Greece is legal, medically supervised, and dignified when performed by a licensed vet for a medically justified reason. Costs range from €50-300 depending on location and circumstances. The decision is hard, but it’s an act of love — sparing your pet’s suffering.
The hardest decision you’ll make as a pet owner. Take it with consultation, calm, and care.
See Also (English)
- Pet cremation in Greece
- Pet died in Greece: guide for tourists
- Pet cemetery near Athens
- Pet cemetery near Thessaloniki
- Pet hospice / end-of-life care in Greece