In-Home Pet Euthanasia
When you are ready, one of our compassionate veterinary doctors will have an open, honest, and empathetic conversation about your pet's quality of life. We consider these discussions to be one of the most difficult and important parts of our profession. Our experienced veterinary care teams can help you navigate in-home pet euthanasia services for your pet.
Why At-Home Pet Euthanasia?
If your pet is elderly or you have a sick pet, you may decide that a humane euthanasia solution is in your pet’s best interest. Our compassionate in-home pet euthanasia process will help your dog or cat cross the rainbow bridge with dignity, surrounded by those they love. We do everything we can to make this emotional and challenging time as personalized and comfortable as possible, in the privacy of your home. Euthanizing your pet at home allows them to be in their favorite location, removes the need for travel, and allows your entire family to be present when appropriate. Humane euthanasia is a challenging topic, and your family’s process will be unique to you. We are available to help and are privileged to assist in your pet’s peaceful passing.
Our Humane Euthanasia Process - What to Expect
One of our veterinarians, along with an assistant, will travel to your home so you and your pet can remain together in a peaceful, comfortable, and private environment. All of your love and focus can be directed toward your furry family member during this emotional time. The entire appointment typically lasts 20-45 minutes, which allows us to go forward at your pace without rushing through any part of the process.
Your veterinarian will begin the appointment by providing an overview of the in-home pet euthanasia procedure. They will allow time for you to discuss any of your questions or concerns. The entire process is individually tailored toward your preferences and comfort level. We can work in the area of your home where you and your pet are most comfortable, whether it be on the living room floor, a family room couch, or even outside in good weather conditions (above 50 degrees and not raining).
Once you are ready for us to begin the home euthanasia procedure, your pet will receive an injection containing a pain reliever mixed with a heavy sedative to help them remain calm and comfortable. As the sedative takes effect, usually within 5-15 minutes, you’ll notice your pet’s pain diminish as they continue to relax. You and your family can be right by their side the entire time. Feel free to hold them, talk to them, and touch them during the entire appointment.
Once your pet is asleep or completely relaxed, we place a pad underneath them to protect your floor/furniture, as some pets may release urine or stool as they cross the rainbow bridge. At this time, you’ll have another opportunity to share one last memory together. Your veterinarian may place an IV catheter for the final injection. The entire at-home pet euthanasia procedure is a painless and peaceful process for your pet that is much like falling into a deep sleep.
Pet Aftercare and Cremation
After your pet has transitioned over the rainbow bridge, we will give you the time and space to spend a few more moments together. If cremation is elected, we will wrap your pet in a blanket and gently place them on our stretcher or basket before transporting them out of your home and to the crematorium. For larger dogs, we may ask for your help carrying them out on our stretcher or have a representative from the pet crematorium assist us with the transportation.
Quality-of-Life Assessment for Dogs and Cats
If you are facing decisions about your pet's end-of-life care, a Quality-of-Life Consultation is often a good place to start. A Quality-of-Life appointment includes an in-depth discussion with one of our veterinarians and a thorough review of your pet's health history. We will offer feedback on your pet's functioning and comfort level, and together we can make a plan that is in your pet's best interest. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind about how to move forward. To help you gain a better understanding of your pet's quality of life before your appointment, take our Quality-of-Life Assessment for dogs and cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we encourage you as well as other family members to stay with your pet during the in-home euthanasia process. Your veterinarian will let you know what to expect during the entire procedure and will make sure you feel comfortable moving forward with each step.
What Our Clients Say
