Euthanasia
Every living being must die - it is a part of life that cannot be avoided. It is probably one of the hardest times we help clients to work through. With euthanasia, we are able to ensure our pets have a humane, quick and painless way to die.
This is achieved by administering a massive intravenous (IV) overdose of an anesthetic drug. An assistant will often help to steady the animal and hold off the vein. The barbiturate causes an initial feeling of euphoria. Animals may lick their lips, pant and look around. This lasts a few seconds before they slip into a peaceful deep anesthetic sleep. The heart will then slow and stop, often within just a few seconds. The drug is painless, and an IV injection is well tolerated by most animals. If your pet is too stressed to allow an IV injection, a sedative may be given first to calm them.
You have the choice to remain with your pet or to leave him/her with us. Regardless, your pet will be treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve. For people wishing to stay with with their pets, an appointment is required. Otherwise, an animal can be dropped off anytime. Some paperwork is required, and it is easier for some people to come in and finish this and settle the financial matters before they come back with their pet.
Thinking About Care of Remains
You have choices to make about how you would like your pet's remains cared for. Are you able to take your pet home to buried? If so, you need to think about how you want the body prepared to come home. Do you have a special blanket or box that would be suitable? Other options range from a private cremation or a simple group cremation which we arrange, to a private plot with a headstone in a pet cemetery which can be arranged via a third party. There are caskets and urns that are available if desired. We can help you with the details once the decision has been made.