"The dog is a gentleman; I hope to go to his heaven, not man's." - Mark Twain
Euthanasia is sometimes the most humane treatment option for your pet.
But even when you know it's the right thing to do, it is always difficult.
Once you've made the decision, there are some things that will be helpful to know.
If calling for an appointment:
Our client service provider will try to set up a time when the office is less likely to be busy, usually first thing in the morning, or the last appointment in the afternoon.
Do you want to be with your pet during the procedure? This is so we know what type of appointment to make. There is nothing wrong with not being with your pet - it is purely a personal decision. If you elect not to stay with your pet, you should know that one of the technicians will be with and hold him throughout the procedure to be sure he feels secure.
Do you want to take your pet home to bury or would you like for us to cremate him/her? We offer on-site cremation. We take pride in handling our patients with great care and compassion in this last service. If you would like, we can prepare and return your pet's ashes to you.
*Upon arrival you will be asked to sign a consent form, determine the plan for your pet's remains, and settle the charges so that once the procedure is complete, you are able to leave without having to take care of these things.
*The procedure itself is relatively simple.
**A temporary IV catheter is inserted into the foreleg of the pet.
**The tiny prick of the needle is the only thing your pet will feel.
**Then, the doctor will give the solution through the vein.
**The pet will then just go to sleep.
**The doctor will let you know when the heart has ceased beating.
The fees associated with euthanasia, cremation and preparing ashes are dependent on the size of the pet, so feel free to ask when making your appointment.
Please see this AVMA resource for more information.
It is a sad occasion when it is time to say goodbye; we have all experienced it ourselves.
"It came to me that every time I lose a dog they take a piece of my heart with them, and every new dog who comes into my life gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough all the components of my heart will become dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are." Anonymous
"Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." - Dr. Seuss