Many pet owners want to know why their pet passed away. A limited cosmetic necropsy may produce a reason, add closure and potentially alert the veterinary staff of local risks.
Source: Clinician’s Brief, December 2017.
The term “autopsy” is widely preferred in the pathology community, particularly to emphasize the primary goal of unifying human and veterinary medical terminology and dispelling misconceptions and misunderstandings of the procedure. Although “autopsy” is etymologically appropriate (Greek autopsia is simply to “see with one’s own eyes”), the term “necropsy” is also appropriate. Veterinary practitioners should use terminology that can be clearly communicated to and understood by clients.