When companion animals become part of our families, the last thing we imagine is life without them. Unfortunately though, it’s something all pet parents will eventually face. If you’re at that point, you may be considering pet euthanasia (putting your pet to sleep). It’s an option that many people choose to prevent pets from suffering in their final days or if you are no longer looking for a cure and doing hospice and you and your team feel it is time. Pet euthanasia can be performed can be performed at home, in the most familiar of surroundings, allowing the last breath be as sacred as the first. End of life pet care does not mean end of care, it means an elevated level of care by experienced people who are committed to supporting pets and their people at this most sacred, vulnerable and sad times.
Who Can Perform At-Home Animal Euthanasia?
Typically, at-home pet euthanasia is performed by veterinarians who specialize in end-of-life care services (hospice, quality of life assessments, grief support). They might have a small team of folks who do the supportive work that helps make it a very seamless appointment with little fuss and much compassion. In-Home-Pet-Euthanasia
How Is Pet Euthanasia Performed at Home?
At-home pet euthanasia services are designed to make the process as peaceful as possible for you and your pet. Unlike the veterinary setting, you decide what environment is best for your pet’s passing—in their bed, on your lap, under a backyard tree, surrounded by favorite toys, at the beach or a park where your best friend never leaves your side during the procedure. You can play soothing music, control the lighting, gather family and friends, and even feed a special last meal if your pet is up to it.
Typically the vet will explain the euthanasia process to you if you need that. Two injections are given for this procedure. The first one sedates the pet so the body relaxes and they drift to sleep over the course of five to ten minutes. The second injection is the euthanasia solution, which is euthanasia solution which shuts off the respiratory part of the brain and stops the heart from beating. The Veterinarian will then listen to the heart to ensure everyone that indeed the procedure is over and the pet has passed.
Afterward, the hospice vet may step out and give you a few moments of alone time with your pet. There may be a driver outside waiting if the pet is a larger or if not, the Doctor will wrap up your baby and leave, chatting about the aftercare and leaving materials behind that go over everything. An office employee will reach out in a day or so to confirm all your choices for aftercare and memorial items have been selected. Memorial Items
How Much Does At-Home Pet Euthanasia Cost?
Having a veterinarian come to your home to perform pet euthanasia sounds pricy, but in all honesty when you match up the dollar amount with the experience, most folks, all things allowing it, will choose at home pet euthanasia for the obvious and no-so-obvious reasons. Don’t forget about aftercare – that will increase the costs. Helpful article on aftercare and choices/costs: Pet Cremation 101
When Should You Have Your Pet Euthanized at Home?
Perhaps the most difficult question to grapple with is when we should make this appointment. Planning an at-home euthanasia works best when you can do it before it becomes an emergency, when you can plan the day and let your companion animal leave this earth plane, wrapped in a blanket of love and of course, tears.
Your pet’s health status, and your ability to keep them comfortable, is the best measuring stick for figuring out when to have euthanasia performed. Talk with your regular veterinarian about your pet’s condition and outlook. Your vet can help you get a better feel for your pet’s timeline and if medications and other therapies can ease their discomfort.
Once your pet is at the hospice stage, days are unpredictable, so taking it one day at a time is a good guide and also an easy one to follow. Pet hospice can be an enriching time for you and your pet as it truly pulls you both into the holy moment. Nice blog article on pet hospice here. Pet Hospice – What Do Animals Want Somedays might be better than others, but altogether, your pet’s health will continue to decline, which is the natural process of life. Oftentimes, once pet parents realize that, it’s easier for them to make a decision and remember, electing at home pet euthanasia does not mean you failed, it means you made an educated decision, with a supportive team for the best exit for your companion animal in a tranquil and loving environment. This will allow you walk the path of least regrets in the days, weeks and months ahead.