What to Expect

“I want you to understand the process I use to conduct at home euthanasia. Here are the basic steps I use so you and your pet feel the most comfortable and respected.”

When I arrive at your home we will sit down together. You may or may not want other family members with you. That is completely up to you! I welcome anyone you invite to be part of this profound process. My first goal is to determine whether you are sure you want to euthanize your pet, or if you want me to conduct a quality of life assessment. If we conduct a quality of life assessment together, I will take the time you need so you feel like we are being methodical. I understand you want a veterinarian who you feel is patient, calm, supportive, careful and sensitive. Click here to see the quality of life checklist I use.

After any necessary quality of life assessment has been conducted, I will ask you what your preferences are. If you are not sure what your preferences are, click here to go to my list of preferences you can use as a guide to customize as you wish. We review your list of special preferences in terms of any atmospheric conditions you are desiring. For example, some people want to play some music, some people want to have candles. Some people want total silence and they want me to be as quiet and say as little as possible. That is completely acceptable, because it is about you having the experience you want.

I will also ask you if there are any special items that you want to be part of the process. For example some dogs have a favorite blanket. Some cats might have a favorite toy. I will work with you to ensure that we together make the environment exactly what you want it to be.

You and I both want your pet to be the most comfortable they can be during this difficult time. One way to do this is to give them one of their favorite treats before and/or during this process.

If you are having any emotional difficulties, I will support you throughout this process. Remember, I have conducted over a thousand euthanasias in the last 25 years. My deep and diverse experience allows me to be a reliable and calming presence for you and your loved ones and your furry companion. I have carefully honed my ability to anticipate what will help you and your pet the most.

Once you are ready for me to begin the medical part of the process, my first step will be to administer a sedation injection to help you pet relax. This is a preliminary step done before the euthanasia solution is injected because it allows your pet to feel calm and even more accepting of the process. If they have been in a lot of pain or have been disoriented, this helps them feel better. Around this time I will talk with you about giving your pet a tasty treat if they are still eating. Different clients will pick different items to give their pets. Ice scream, whip cream, and canned cheese seem to be favorites.This helps your pet feel better. Think about how you feel better when you are sick and you can eat one of your favorite foods.

Once you are ready, and your pet is feeling the calming effects of the sedation,  I will administer the euthanasia injection. The euthanasia injection will allow your furry loved one to drift off into sleep. This allows them a peaceful passing. As I am doing this I will welcome you and any other family members to do whatever you feel is appropriate to honor the sacredness of this profound moment in your life. Whatever you feel is appropriate is what you should do. The key thing is to help your pet experience the love you have for them. 

After I have carefully given your pet the euthanasia solution, I want you to feel you have the space you need. And you may not want space, as some clients want me to remain close to them. There is no right choice. You may be overwhelmed by emotion, and that is perfectly normal and healthy. After all, this is one of your closest friends you are saying goodbye to. But if you want some private time, I will respectfully go outside so you can be alone with your furry loved one. I always allow you the owner to have as much time as you need. I am patient and understanding. When I come back inside I will answer any of your questions. I will remain fully present and supportive for as long as it takes.

My constant focus throughout the whole process is to attune to what you are looking for. Being married to a psychologist for several decades has helped me become masterful with attuning to what others are seeking and feeling. My constant goal is to make you and your pet to be as comfortable as possible

If you have not chosen to go with the home burial option, I will work with you to respectfully wrap your pet in whatever blanket or material you wish before we bring your pet to my vehicle. I then bring your pet with me and make sure they are treated with the utmost respect. I make sure to follow the best veterinary practices. I have a deep and personal relationship with the driver who comes to pick up your pet from my home where they are temporarily stored in my professional sized and clean freezer. This follows the best and most respectful practices for my professional field.

I have used the same crematorium for over 15 years. In fact, I personally know the driver who picks up and delivers for me. I am focused on maintaining the highest quality control possible.

If you feel overwhelmed by the loss of your pet, I offer a full variety of grief support resources to help you find your best path to healing. The loss of a pet can feel so hard you cannot put it into words. That is ok. That just means you loved them deeply. Whatever you are feeling, I will support you. Since my husband is a psychologist, I have over the years learned a lot from him about how to make sure you feel I am there for you every step of the way.

If you have indicated you want to have your pet’s ashes back, I will contact you once my trusted crematorium, called Lasting Paws,  has completed the cremation process. You have a variety of options for how you want to store your pet’s beloved ashes. You can choose to receive the ashes back in a cedar box if you wish. Or you may have a sacred container you wish to use. That is completely up to you! I am here to answer your questions if you have any.