What to Expect at Your Pet's Final Appointment
First and foremost, please know that we are deeply sorry that you are facing this difficult decision. Saying goodbye to a beloved companion is one of the hardest moments a family can experience, and our team is committed to making your pet's final moments peaceful, gentle, and dignified.
Please don't hesitate to ask questions at any point during the process. We are here to support both you and your pet.
Arriving for Your Appointment
To provide a quieter, more private experience, we ask that you arrive through our side client entrance.
- Parking is available on the side of the building near the delivery door.
- When you arrive, please either:
- Ring the doorbell to let us know you're here, or
- Call the hospital, and a team member will come to assist you.
We will escort you directly to a private room where you can spend time with your pet.
Questions We'll Review Together
When you are settled, a member of our team will review a few questions regarding your pet's health and history, including:
- The reason for euthanasia at this time
- Any recent health concerns?
- Whether your pet has bitten anyone in the last 10 days
We understand these questions may feel difficult, but they help us ensure we provide the safest and most compassionate care possible.
Decisions We Will Discuss
Before proceeding, we will review a few important decisions with you:
Would You Like to Be Present?
Some families choose to stay with their pet throughout the entire process, while others prefer to say goodbye beforehand. There is no right or wrong choice—only what feels best for you and your family.
Aftercare Options
Take Your Pet Home
- You may take your pet home for burial following the appointment.
Communal (Group) Cremation
- Your pet will be cremated with other beloved pets.
- Ashes are not returned to the family.
Private (Individual) Cremation
- Your pet will be cremated individually.
- Your pet's ashes will be returned to you.
Personal Belongings
If your pet comes with a favorite blanket, bed, collar, leash, or toy, we kindly ask that personal belongings be limited whenever possible. Small items can remain with your pet, to be cremated with them.
If there are items you would like returned to you, we recommend taking them home following the appointment.
Financial Arrangements
To allow you to leave when you feel ready, all aftercare decisions and payment arrangements are completed before the euthanasia procedure begins. Once your pet has passed, there will be no need to return to the front desk unless you wish to do so.
Our team is happy to discuss costs and provide estimates in advance.
The Euthanasia Process
Our goal is to make this experience as peaceful and gentle as possible.
Optional Sedation
Some families choose to have their pet receive a sedative before the euthanasia procedure. Sedation can help pets become very relaxed or sleepy before the final injection is given.
This option is entirely your choice, and our team is happy to discuss whether sedation may be appropriate for your pet and answer any questions you may have.
IV Catheter Placement
Your pet will briefly be taken to our treatment area so that an intravenous (IV) catheter can be placed. This allows the euthanasia solution to be administered smoothly and gently.
Once the catheter has been placed, your pet will be returned to your room, and you may spend as much private time together as you need.
When You're Ready
There is no need to rush. When you feel ready to proceed, simply ring the bell provided in your room, and the doctor will come in.
The Final Injection
The doctor will administer the euthanasia solution through the IV catheter.
The process is typically very quick and peaceful. Your pet will gently slip into what feels like a deep sleep, and their heart will stop shortly thereafter.
Occasionally, pets may take a few deep breaths, twitch slightly, vocalize, or lose control of their bladder or bowels after passing. These are normal physical responses and do not mean your pet is experiencing discomfort or pain.
The doctor will then confirm that your pet has passed peacefully.
Afterward
You are welcome to spend additional time with your pet after the procedure. There is no time limit, and you may leave whenever you feel comfortable and ready. Because all arrangements and payment have been completed beforehand, you may quietly exit whenever you are ready, or ring the bell provided, and one of our staff members will escort you to the door. You will not need to stop at the front desk.
Superior