Two weeks notice format? (needed.. NOW.) =(?

I work at an animal shelter, and the job description was a lot different than what actually goes on. I was expecting to clean the cages, assist with customer service, sanitize everything, and of course, help interact with the animals. That's basically what it said on the job description. But there is euthanasia on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and when I get there in the morning, they're already taking cats and dogs down to the EU room, and the crematory seems to be always on.

I can't take it any more. That's not what I was supposed to be exposed to. It said nothing about it in the job description, and half of the time, I'm the one taking them downstairs to the EU room, holding them as they inject the barbituates, everything. I hate it, and I need out of there NOW. It's a terrible environment.

How do I write a two weeks notice, when I really don't think I can emotionally stand it for another two weeks? I'm going to be polite, but I don't ever want to go back there. Help!

Oh how I remember having this happen to me. I worked at a humane society for 5 years. At the time of the interview, I wasn't told that I would have to Euthanise. And, to my surprise and shock, my second day there I was called down the Euthanasia room. My day was Wednesday, how I dreaded that day so much. Towards the end of my employment there I was calling in every Wednesday saying that I couldn't come in for one reason or the other.

My breaking point was when I had to put down a retired Fidelco guide dog because of old age illnesses. The owner of the dog was literally crying in my arms. I tried so hard to comfort her and reassure her that the dog wouldn't feel any pain at all. He was such a sweet dog and it killed me to have to put him down.

When I gave my notice that I was leaving, I did tell the man that interviewed me this. I told him to tell the next person who takes my place that they will have to Euthanise animals. He agreed and did apologize to me for not telling me up front.

So, I know how you feel, by not being told that you had to do it. I know how you feel about Euthanising too.

When you give your notice of separation, you don't have to put down any specific reasons for your leaving. Just say that you are giving a 2 week notice and give the date of your last day. It won't go on your record that you couldn't deal with that area of the job. They won't say anything about that to your next place of employment.


I really hope this helps, as I know first hand how you are feeling. I used to go home at night and just sit on the couch and cry. I couldn't take it anymore and had to leave. I went and took a job at an animal hospital and eventually made kennel manager. It was such a relief knowing that I wouldn't have to Euthanise anymore.

Thank you for choosing my answer as the best one. I am glad I could help. I'm so happy you found a new job too. You will feel much better and do much better now. Good luck! Report It

Why don't you say something like: Unfortunately I have discovered that the euthanasia process, while necessary, is very uncomfortable for me. Therefore, I am giving my two weeks notice and asking to not participate in any more euthanasia activities while I am still here.

If it gets that bad just tell them you cannot stand it another day. They've been through it before and understand.

I don't think you need to be specific. Just mention after working there for ___ months or years that you have decided it's not the job for you. If they ask for specifics you can tell them. I'm sure they will understand. I'm also sure they want somebody that is able to deal with it.

there's no reason to state any of the personal reasons you're leaving.

my best advice is to find ANOTHER job before you give your notice....

but the basic notice can go like this (in letter format, of course)

Dear (whomever);

I am writing to inform you of my two weeks' notice. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause (the name of the place you work) and would like to offer my assistance in training a replacement.

I am grateful for the opportunity and the knowledge I have gained in my experience here. I wish (the company) much success in the future.

Thank you again for your understanding.

Most Sincerely,
(you)




hope that helps, it's kinda what i did when i quit my last job. no reason, nothing mean... this way you can't be told you left on "bad terms." just make sure you work those two weeks!

Good luck finding something you enjoy!