Euthanasia is the act of humanely ending the life of a living being in order to end extreme suffering, which is typically as the result of a serious and irreversible medical condition.
The Decision
As the guardian of a pet, the decision of whether or not to choose to euthanize can be a very difficult and very painful one. For as long as we have been helping people and their pets, we have seen pet guardians struggle with this decision in many different ways. Some people seem to know when it is time. However, most of us second-guess ourselves when making this difficult decision. Almost everyone asks us if we feel is the time for their pet to go. They ask us if they are making the right decision for euthanasia. Just as with all the loving care you have provided your pet, and all the decisions you have made for them throughout their life, you will need to make end of life decisions. You know your pet better than anyone. Your pet’s primary veterinarian knows their health best. Your love, concern and understanding of your pet and their quality of life, combined with an assessment by the veterinarian who knows their health best, are the absolute best tools to make end-of-life decisions. For more information on assessing quality of life and making end of life decisions, see the links at the bottom of the page.
The Kindest Gift
When the time comes, deciding on euthanasia at your home can be the kindest gift you give to your pet. Choosing euthanasia at home can eliminate the stress, anxiety, and the discomfort of a drive and unfamiliar smells and surroundings. You can choose where you want the veterinarian and her assistant to see your pet. Most often this is a place in your home where your pet is most comfortable..
What to expect
It is important to know what to expect ahead of time. Your euthanasia consultation phone call will help a lot to prepare you. Our goal is to make this as peaceful and as comfortable as possible for you and for your pet, and knowing what to expect is an important part of that. Every pet’s situation is unique. Some of what we discuss is the importance of preparing children and other pets in the home, tools you might need to help with your decision, what to expect with a home euthanasia, and options for after care. Euthanasia appointments include our veterinarian and assistant traveling to your home, administration of medication for your pet’s comfort, peaceful euthanasia, assurance from the veterinarian that your pet has passed, and transport to the crematorium if you choose. For more information on how we can help you with aftercare: Click_Here
What to Expect when the Veterinarian Arrives for your Appointment
How Will I Know
It's Time?
watch a short video by Dr. Dani McVety
The Sadness before
the loss:
Understanding Companion Animal Euthanasia:
Your Pet Loss
Guide: