In-Home Pet Euthanasia with Aftercare
At Signature Veterinary Services, our team understands how challenging end of life care and decisions can be. For many pet parents, determining the appropriate time for euthanasia is the most heartbreaking choice with which they are faced. We’re committed to providing guidance and support throughout the process. Saying goodbye at home eases stress for the whole family while ensuring a peaceful transition in a familiar and comfortable environment for the pet.
How Do, or Will, You Know When It's Time?
Although we cherish our pets and want them to live indefinitely, quality of life is important, too. When your pet’s quality of life has diminished, euthanasia provides a gentle and compassionate way to limit associated pain and suffering.
When a pet’s health declines, they may exhibit the following:
- Difficulty breathing, labored breathing, heavy panting
- Whining, whimpering, or excessive vocalization
- Appetite loss
- Reluctance to move or extreme difficulty moving
- Avoiding contact and isolating from humans or other furry family members
It’s important to understand that some pets won’t display any outward signs of pain or discomfort, as this is an instinctual survival mechanism. If you notice any changes or have any concerns, we encourage you to contact our veterinary team. We offer quality of life consultations to help you navigate this difficult decision. A pet’s condition can shift rapidly during this final stage of life and we are here for you.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Whether your pet is an existing patient of ours or we are meeting your pet for the first time, we will first confirm that euthanasia is the best option. Once this is confirmed, we obtain signed consent and accept payment before proceeding. Both consent and payment can be handled in advance if preferred.
We accommodate the needs of both you and your pet in determining where to perform the procedure. We advise a location where your pet is most comfortable, whether that’s a favorite bed, a frequented area in the yard, a warm spot in the sunshine, or in your loving arms or lap. Family and friends are welcome to gather around the pet.
To promote relaxation, we first sedate your pet. We select the appropriate tranquilizers based on the individual pet. The tranquilizers are typically given as a single injection under the skin and the full effects are appreciated after about 5-15 minutes. Once your pet is thoroughly relaxed and sleepy, we place an intravenous catheter and administer the euthanasia solution.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Prior to your pet transitioning, we’ll discuss your aftercare wishes. We provide complete cremation services; our packages give you the option to have your pet’s ashes spread at sea or returned to you, hand-delivered by our staff or trusted partners. Pawprints, as well as custom urns and jewelry, are also available to memorialize and honor your pet.
In-Home Pet Euthanasia
Our team provides in-home euthanasia services to maximize pets’ comfort levels in their final moments. Saying goodbye at home promotes relaxation and tranquility for your pet and for your family as a whole.
If you have questions about your pet’s declining condition, we welcome you to schedule a quality of life consultation with Signature Veterinary Services. As you are faced with end of life care and decisions, our team is committed to advising and assisting you while also advocating for your valued pet.
So as to make the process as easy as possible, we offer the option to handle consent and payment in advance of your appointment. Please complete this form to provide signed consent. If you also wish to pay in advance, please contact us to provide payment over the phone.
