In Home & Clinic Euthanasia
The decision to euthanize a pet is one of the most difficult decisions you, as a pet owner, can make. We provide in-clinic and in-home euthanasia services to help owners give their pets the most loving and stress-free passing. If you have any questions regarding euthanasia and whether or not it is an appropriate decision for your pet, please contact the clinic.
The term euthanasia, which comes from Greek words meaning "good death", is the process in which an animal is put to sleep to end or prevent suffering. Although we as owners hope our beloved pets will pass at home peacefully in their sleep, unfortunately this is not the case for all animals. Sometimes euthanasia is the most ethical decision for those whose health is deteriorating and/or suffering.
Although deciding when euthanasia is the best option for your pet can be challenging, it is a compassionate, ethical, and humanitarian way to end a pet’s suffering. If you are unsure whether euthanasia is the best decision, contact us to book an exam, where the vet will do an assessment of your pet based on quality of life.
The veterinarian will start by sedating the pet, which means they will still be conscious but not reactive to their surroundings and pain free. The sedation takes 10-15 minutes to take full effect, so owners, family and/or friends have alone time with the pet. Afterwards, the veterinarian will administer an injection that will stop the pets heart. We then allow owners, family and/or friends to take as much time to say their final goodbyes.
The process of euthanasia remains the same regardless of whether it is done in clinic or in home. The only difference would be that the pet would remain in the comfort of their own home rather than having to travel to the vet clinic. Owners, family and/or friends will still be given alone time with their beloved pets before and after the second injection has been administered.
Why choose in-home euthanasia?
When a euthanasia is performed at home, it allows you and others who love and care for your pet to be present and grieve in private. It also avoids the stress and/or pain your pet may experience when being transported to a veterinary clinic, especially when your pet’s mobility or your ability to move them may be a factor.
1) Reduced anxiety and fear associated with travel and/or the vet clinic
2) Mobility issues might make it difficult or impossible to have your pet travel
3) You may wish for your other pets, family or friends to be present during the goodbye process
4) Your pet can pass peacefully in the comfort of their home, in their favorite spot with their favorite people
Aftercare Options
Private Cremation
Your pet will be individually cremated, and the remains will be placed in an urn. There are a few complimentary urns to choose from, or if you wish to view our catalogue, we can order in a special urn for an additional fee. You will also have your choice of color and name etching or plaque depending on the style of urn that you choose.
Communal Cremation
Your pet will be cremated in a group with others, and the ashes are then communally buried on the property of the crematorium. It is important to note that, with this service, you will not choose an urn and the cremated remains of your pet will not be returned to you.
Burial
Every municipality has different rules and guidelines regarding pet burial. Prior to burying your pet on your property, please check your local/municipal regulations.
Pawprint
We offer pawprints as a keepsake regardless of whether you choose private or communal cremation for your pet. An impression of your pets paw(s) will be imprinted in a piece of clay and then designed based on your preferences. There are a variety of colors, shapes and other options to choose from that allows you to design the perfect pawprint keepsake for your pet. Please note we are not able to offer this service for those who chose at-home burial.