I understand that it's horrible to see loved ones die in pain, I've been through it with my family but what I still can't get to grips with is 'who takes the life'? OK, someone who is compis mentis and fit enough to take a life-ending drink is one thing but what about all the cases where the person isn't. Take many of the cases discussed here, would a family member or a Nurse/Doctor administer the drugs, what protections would need to be in place to ensure it's not carried out for the wrong reasons. Like the death penalty for criminals it's one thing to be in favour of it but another to ensure it's right beyond doubt.
Im not making this point lightly as I understand the anguish of seeing a loved one die in pain but I know I couldn't press the button and I couldn't expect someone else to either. The comparison with animals is not a parallel in my opinion, I've broke my heart over dogs that we've had put down but it's not quite the same as your flesh and blood.
I understand what you’re saying but I’m not sure it’s actually that relevant. I say that because assisted suicide, which as far as I am aware is what’s on the table here, is just that. Assisting someone to take their own life, just like the process at Dignitas.
Someone else administering the drugs because the dying person is incapable of doing so themselves is euthanasia - something entirely different and not, to my knowledge, even on the agenda. Perhaps with good reason.