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And in Home Euthanasia

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Preparing for the Pet Euthanasia Visit

Euthanasia in the Comfort of Your Home

We at Compassionate Veterinary Hospice know how difficult it can be to say goodbye to a beloved companion. A euthanasia in your home can be a different process than you may have previously experienced at a veterinary hospital. We hope this  summary  will  leave you feeling prepared. 

Preparing for the Euthanasia Process

Euthanizing your companion at home allows him or her to stay where he or she is most comfortable, surrounded by family members in a familiar setting.  Whenever possible, we like to have them be where they are most comfortable. If that is on their favorite bed or spot on the floor, we will do what we can to let them remain where they want to be.   You don’t need to prepare anything special for us, just enough room for us to move around and comfortably be with you and your pet. 

When preparing for your pet´s euthanasia, it is helpful to decide who you would like to have present during the euthanasia. Some people – yourself included – may be comfortable being present during parts of the euthanasia procedure but not all of it. We encourage each individual who will be present to do whatever feels  appropriate at the time, including leaving the room or coming back at any time  during the euthanasia visit. If you wish to be alone during the procedure, you  may still want to ask a friend or family member to be with you before and/or  afterward – in person or by phone – so their support is available.

Other considerations for the euthanasia visit may include having music playing, candles lit, or other “ambiance” considerations.  Will you incorporate any kind of ceremony during the visit? What will you want to do after the visit – perhaps make plans for friends or family to keep you company? Will you want to request time off work or school?

In the days, weeks, or months leading up to your pet’s death, take time to consider your choices. Acknowledging and addressing the “unknowns” can help you and your family approach this experience with a sense of confidence and control rather than anxiety or fear.  Our team of veterinarians, nurses, and care assistants are here to help you prepare for the many questions that may arise. 

  • Will I have to make a decision about euthanasia?
  • If so, how will I know when the time is right?
  • What does the disease progression look like?
  • Will there be pain for my pet?
  • What will I do after he/she does die?
  • What are my options for the care of my pet’s body?
  • How will my pet’s body be handled, and by whom?
  • I don’t want to regret anything, but what else is there to do?
  • What will the euthanasia visit be like?
  • What if my pet dies at home without euthanasia?

For suggestions to honor your remaining time with your pet, check out “As your pet approaches the end of life.”  This handout offers ways to acknowledge and honor this time with your pet as a profound and meaningful part of your relationship together.

For families with young children, we recommend  our handout titled “Helping Children Cope with Loss” for suggestions on how to help children prepare and feel involved in a way that is meaningful to them.

Helping pets with quality of life and peaceful partings

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At Compassionate Veterinary Hospice, you will find the loving care, support and guidance you are looking for to ensure your pet’s final journey is peaceful and gentle for your pet and your entire family.