In-Home Euthanasia
End-of-Life decisions are the hardest decisions pet parents face. It is equally one of the kindest gifts we can give our pets to allow them to pass in the comfort of their homes, surrounded by those that love them the most. Once an owner recognizes the pet has lost its joy in life and may be crossing the line to suffering, the decision to let go can lift an immense burden from one’s shoulders.
If the decision has been made to proceed with the euthanasia, we aim to make the experience as peaceful as possible and will proceed at a pace that is comfortable and unrushed for all involved. We suggest in advance of our arrival you consider the following options:
- Where do you want to say goodbye? (inside/outside, at a favorite place like the park or beach). If you choose a site away from home, we may need extra notice to accommodate your request.
- Who do you want to be present? (family, friends, children, other pets)
- What are your aftercare wishes? (home burial or cremation with or without the return of ashes)
- How can I remember/honor my pet? (clay paw prints, memorial plaques, jewelry, hair clippings)
- Would you like a memorial service during or after the euthanasia? If you desire a service at the time of euthanasia, we will require additional notice to make the arrangements, if possible.
- When the appointment is scheduled, an estimate of costs will be provided by the receptionist, and upon our arrival we will take care of all expenses. (If you prefer to take care of expenses before arrival, be sure to let the staff know when you are making the appointment.) If you are uncertain about an urn, we can review this at the time, or you may visit Pet Passages for options in advance. Once payment is completed, then we will begin the preparations for the euthanasia.
We recommend you have an area already chosen (inside or outside) that is comfortable for you and your pet. We initially sedate all animals with an injection under the skin (or sometimes by mouth) so they do not experience any anxiety. If there is a special treat they like (fast-food burgers, or even the long-coveted chocolate), this is the perfect time to offer it as a distraction to the sedation injection. Then they will slowly fall asleep in the comfort of the home surrounded by their loved ones. In general, the sedation takes about 5 to 10 minutes to take effect. Once the pet is relaxed, we will establish intravenous access in a convenient leg where we will give 2 injections that will stop the heart. This step is usually a quick process lasting only a few minutes. We know this will be a very emotional experience for all involved and we understand this may be difficult for you. We will do all we can to provide you and your pet respect and comfort at this difficult time.
After the passing of your pet, we will provide an impression of your pet’s paw and hair clippings at no additional charge, if you desire.
Euthanasia for Unusual Species, Aggressive animals or Unwanted Pets
Unusual Species:
Dr. Donna has worked with a multitude of exotic and large animal species (pigs, horses, camels, birds, reptiles, rabbits, goats and more) since becoming a veterinarian and is very aware that you, as pet parents, may want the option of allowing them to transition at home and not in a stressful hospital environment. Please give us a call so we can discuss your needs and plan accordingly. In some cases, this may require a pre-euthanasia planning visit or phone consultation with Dr. Donna, depending on the species.
Aggressive Animals:
Unfortunately, there are times when our animals either become aggressive or may have medical conditions that result in unpredictable behavior. In many of these cases not only are there no options for placement of these animals, but they may also pose danger to family members or have been deemed dangerous by local authorities and need to be euthanized. Regardless of the circumstances, our view is that as sensient living animals, they also deserve to be euthanized with compassion and respect. Because of the unique nature of these situations, we generally will schedule a pre-euthanasia appointment to plan for the best way to proceed for that animal to ensure that we provide as peaceful a transition as possible.
Unwanted Animals:
In general, we will not perform euthanasia when an animal is healthy but no longer wanted. This is sometimes termed a convenience euthanasia. There are often species or breed-specific rescues in the community for placing such animals. We may be able to help direct you to such organizations. However, there are sometimes situations, such as severe behavioral problems or unresolvable medical conditions, for which euthanasia becomes the only viable option. We are happy to discuss such scenarios during an exam/consultation visit to explore options. In some cases, we may be able to refer you to a behaviorist or specialist, to attempt resolution of the problem first.