Thank you for reaching out to us to assist with your pets’ transition. We hope to answer all your questions during our initial phone conversation.

You will be able to stay with your pet throughout the entire process.

1.) Please advise me or my technicians if anyone in your home is sick or not feeling well. I’m trying to stay safe, protect my family, and protect my clients from communicable diseases. Masks are not required unless it’s your request. Happy to oblige. I am fully vaccinated and feel comfortable performing procedures inside or outside your home.

2.) It is helpful if you can share any of your pet’s special needs (fear of needles, people, touch, anxiety, bite potential, need for a muzzle, slow response to sedatives). The more I know about your pet, the better I can tailor the procedure to provide a peaceful transition. Sometimes it’s helpful to have sedatives on board prior to my arrival. That requires pre-planning.

3.) History of a bite within 10 days of a euthanasia requires a discussion in advance. These pets need to be quarantined or tested for rabies if we move forward with euthanasia. Utmost safety needs to be taken when administering the sedative injection. It is not uncommon for pets to be in profound pain at the time of services. Some pets get agitated. Agitated pets sometimes nip or bite. If someone is accidentally bitten during the procedure (skin broken) the patient must be tested for rabies. There are NO exceptions. It’s the law! I’ll ask you to not have your face or hands close to the patients mouth for the 2-3 seconds it takes to give the sedative injection. Discussing your pet’s needs in advance makes for a smooth procedure.

4.) My protocol is a two-injection procedure. Sedation is provided via injection, and the state of unconsciousness is reached in 5-15 minutes. I may ask you to gently hold your pet’s head or offer a food bowl distraction while the sedative is administered. Your pet will be resting comfortably, possibly snoring, possibly tongue out, and probably eyes open. The more relaxed of a sleep position they are in, the deeper they sleep. Stay with your pet once the sedative is given. Speak softly and comfort your pet. I will retreat to another room or sit quietly nearby while we wait for the sedative to take its effect. When I return, I’ll shave a spot by the rear leg and place an intravenous catheter. Your pet will not feel the placement. The second medication will stop your pets’ breathing within 1-2 minutes and heartbeat with 3-5 minutes.  When I return, I will check your pet’s heart with my stethoscope.

5.) Most dogs and many cats still have an appetite on the day they are euthanized. Be creative and prepare a large bowl of yummy treats to be offered while I administer the sedative. This can be a great distraction. It is best if the pieces are small and easy to ingest. Break the rules! It can be an ice cream sundae with chocolate syrup and whip cream, cookies, chocolate, pizza, beer, cake, etc. Be prepared to stay with your pet once the sedative is administered. Have backup food nearby if your pet has a hearty appetite.

6.) If you are planning on a home burial, I will depart. Good to know the zoning restrictions in your town. Legal requirements are a hole depth minimum of 3 feet (4 feet or deeper is better).

7.) I can provide aftercare arrangements (cremation) for pets up to 100 pounds. Larger pets (over 100 pounds) may require special plans with a crematorium to pick up pets directly from your home. I can lift up to 30 pounds on my own. Family members need to assist (carry to my car) with pets over 30 pounds. I provide a stretcher with handles to assist with transport to my vehicle. An old fitted sheet makes for a nice, respectful covering.

8.) It is best to address finances and payments prior to my arrival or prior to starting the procedure. Ask for a quote in advance. Fees are based on travel distance, pets’ weight, and timing of appointment (scheduled, vs. same-day request vs. after-hours or emergency). Check, cash, Venmo, and credit cards are accepted. The credit card company charges a 4% service charge on transactions. I do not accept care credit. Payment is expected at the time of service. Let’s get the business end handled first so we can focus on your pet.

9.) I would be grateful if cars can be moved prior to my arrival to make for easy entry and exit, especially during the cold weather months. Please shovel a path and de-ice the driveway/pathway if needed. Let’s work together to make this a smooth process.

10.) Please fill out the Euthanasia Consent Record within 24 hours of a scheduled appointment. Click here to go to the form.

No question should go unanswered. It’s an honor to be asked to assist. Namaste.