In-Home Euthanasia

Unfortunately, medications and therapies can only manage our pets’ struggles for so long. Once their quality of life starts to wane, it may be time to give them the gift of peace. Difficult as it may be to make this decision, consider it one of mercy—a final act of love.

If you have determined it’s time to give your dear friend a loving farewell, I will help make that goodbye as peaceful as it can be. Simply schedule an appointment. That’s all you have to do. Once you’re scheduled, I will take care of the rest so you can just love on and be with your sweet companion.

The procedure itself is fairly simple and virtually painless for your pet. I recommend choosing a spot where your pet feels most comfortable—whether that be your lap, the bed, or a special place in the yard. Prior to beginning, I will share with you what to expect given your pet’s specific condition and address any questions you may have.

I’ll then give your pet an injection of a strong sedative which will provide pain relief and relaxation. This is a great time to love on, talk to, and feed your pet yummy foods if he or she still has an appetite. This poke is the only part of the procedure your pet will feel and is comparable to the sensation one experiences when getting a vaccine.

Over the next 5-10 minutes, your pet will settle into a deep, peaceful sleep. Any pain or discomfort he or she was feeling will melt away. At this point, I will offer to collect a hair clipping and make a clay paw print impression of your pet’s foot as special keepsakes. Please know these memorial items are complimentary and entirely optional; I completely understand if you would rather pass on either of them.

Once your pet is on cloud nine and you’re as ready as you can possibly be, I will give a second medication which your pet will not feel. This one is an overdose of an anesthetic. As such, it will gently slow your pet’s heart as you love on him or her.

The exact location of this injection will depend on your pet’s specific condition and position. In most cases this process takes only a few moments, but I will let you know if I suspect that your pet’s condition may result in a slower transition. I will then listen to your pet’s heart and gently confirm that your friend is at peace before stepping out to my car to give you a moment, as I know this is so hard.

If you have chosen for me to facilitate your sweet pet’s aftercare arrangements, I will return from my car with a comfy blanket and either a basket or stretcher (depending on your pet’s size) to get him or her all tucked in.

In my experience, this can be such an important part of the process for us as pet parents. Having a moment to see your beautiful pet peacefully resting in a cozy blanket—no more pain or struggles, looking like they’re just ready for a nap—can help ease the pain just a little bit and allow the healing process to begin.

Once we’ve got your loved one all safe and snug in my car and everyone’s had a chance to say as many goodbyes as they wish, I’ll respectfully transport him or her to my trusted crematory partner, Lasting Paws of Flagstaff, for their final arrangements.

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