In-Home Euthanasia
The Initial Discussion and What to Expect
Ask us, and we’ll tell you that the discussion of when to say goodbye is the hardest but most important conversation a veterinarian can have with the families we work with. Talking about euthanasia is a skill that takes empathy, openness, non-judgment, and compassion. And we consider it a privilege to have these tough conversations with people leading up to their pet’s euthanasia at home.
What to Expect From In-Home Euthanasia:
The word “euthanasia” literally means “good death”. As the only medical profession licensed to perform this gift, we take the utmost pride in having the technical, medical, and soft skills necessary to provide a peaceful end-of-life experience for your beloved pet.
Our In-Home Pet Euthanasia Services Include:
- A discussion about your concerns, thoughts, or questions surrounding in-home euthanasia.
- Sedation to ease discomfort; you deserve your final memory of your pet to be calm and comfortable. This injection of pain medication and sedatives will allow your pet to drift off to a peaceful sleep before the final injection is administered.
- Sedation assessment, to ensure your pet is sleeping deeply and no longer responds to stimulation.
- Euthanasia, the final gift.
- Transportation for cremation, if selected (to the crematory facility).
- A courtesy notification to your family’s veterinarian of your pet’s passing for their records.
Appointment Information
Once the veterinarian arrives, the full procedure will be explained to you based on your interest and comfort level. Don’t be afraid to ask questions along the way—everything will be done at a pace that you and your pet dictate.
In almost all circumstances, your pet will be given a sedation injection prior to the euthanasia injection.
A veterinarian will arrive at your home for the in-home euthanasia appointment. We don’t wear scrubs or a white coat, we arrive with the emotions that guide us to this work, warmth and compassion.
The veterinarian will talk you through the entire euthanasia process based on your interest and comfort level. Please feel free to ask any questions to help you feel as comfortable as possible.
After the final euthanasia medication is given, the veterinarian will confirm that your pet has peacefully passed on. This is, of course, the most delicate moment of our time with you.
When appropriate, we will leave your home and allow you to grieve in private. (Aftercare options and information on how and when your pet’s ashes will be ready to come home will be discussed by the doctor in detail at the beginning of the appointment).
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You Might Find Yourself Asking…
Why should I euthanize my pet? Is a natural passing better?
Most diseases will not take your pet’s life quickly but cause prolonged pain and suffering. For example, pets commonly suffer from arthritis and kidney disease, which can lead to a long, painful end-of-life process. When appropriate, euthanasia can help your pet pass comfortably before they suffers too much from a terminal disease. It’s important to remember that each disease process must be handled differently. Please speak with your family veterinarian, or view our common diseases page for cats or dogs for more information about your pet’s painful disease.
Why is in-home euthanasia a better option for my pet than a hospital euthanasia?
Saying goodbye to your pet at home has a number of benefits for you and your pet, including:
- The ability to schedule your pet’s appointment at a time convenient for everyone, including after normal hospital hours, and on short notice
- Allowing your pet to be in their own surroundings, where they are relaxed and less anxious
- Allowing your pet to be in their favorite location, with familiar smells
- Less stress for pets who are difficult to move
- The presence of other household pets, which can allow faster healing after the loss of their friend
- Allowing more family members to be present than in a small veterinary office
- The ability to bury your pet, if desired, without difficult transportation issues
- The ability to grieve for your pet in peace
How long does the euthanasia process take?
A euthanasia appointment typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes. The first injection of a heavy sedative will help your pet relax and become comfortable. The final injection is fast-acting and takes effect in 30 to 60 seconds. If you elect for aftercare, the veterinarian will take your pet and arrange for their cremation.
Learn More About Aftercare
Let us help you during this difficult time by offering guidance on cremation and aftercare options, what to expect from our cremation services and how to go about making these arrangements. Click below to learn more.
Aftercare Services
