Voluntary euthanasia is different and is where a health professional administers the drugs to the patient.

The right to die is controversial in America — euthanasia is legal in only 10 states, and Washington, D.C. — but euthanasia and assisted suicide are permitted in Spain.

Taking matters into her own hands, she acquires a euthanasia pill and a short-term rental on a country house where she intends to end her life.

In a judgement, Mrs Justice Lang said issues including defining the right types of dog and the human impacts of euthanasia had been considered by Defra.

The rate of medical assistance in dying - also known as euthanasia - has grown in Canada for the fifth straight year, albeit at a slower pace.