Pet Euthanasia – End of Life Care
Losing a pet is very difficult; it is always so hard to say goodbye to a loved one and when the time comes, we will do our best to make your pets passing as peaceful as possible.
How Will I Know When It’s Time?
Deciding to euthanize your pet may be one of the most difficult decisions you ever make. Often, well-loved pets are euthanized to minimize unnecessary suffering. The quality of animals’ lives is defined by their overall physical and mental well-being, not just one aspect of their lives. This assessment quiz from The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center may help you know when the time has come.
Pet Euthanasia – The Process
We have some flexibility for pre-scheduled in-home euthanasia, but we can be more flexible in the clinic. We can pre-schedule clinic appointments or work them in in the same day where at all possible.
When you arrive for a euthanasia appointment at our Queen Creek clinic, we may do a brief examination – especially if your pet is new to us – and gather some information. We will collect a signature from you for permission to proceed.
In very rare circumstances we may decline the euthanasia (healthy young pets, medical problems that can be resolved without excessive cost, pets that have recently bitten someone unless state approval is acquired). We understand that making the decision to euthanize is never easy, and we encourage you to call and speak to our team if you have a situation where you’re unsure if we would proceed with the euthanasia.
Most pets receive premedication given under the skin; this can sting but is normally very well tolerated. It takes about 10 minutes to take effect, and your pet will be very sleepy. It’s your time to shower them with love; we encourage pet parents to stay with their furbaby for as long as they are comfortable doing so.
In the clinic setting we may ask to take your pet to the treatment area to place a catheter, please let us know if you would prefer it placed in the room. The euthanasia solution will be administered through this catheter or off of a needle. This solution is an overdose of general anesthesia and most pets pass very quickly. You may still spend time with your pet once they are gone.*
When you are ready you may leave, and we will take care of them until their aftercare provider picks them up. Your loved one will be treated with respect and care throughout the aftercare process.
Because this is a very emotional time, if you would like to prepay for the visit you may, and we can discuss aftercare options before your appointment. Otherwise, we collect payment at the beginning of your visit to allow your focus to remain on your pet.
*Note: This is a typical euthanasia but please understand that different pets react to medications differently and some medical problems may complicate the process. Your visit may not follow this process exactly.
Aftercare Information
We entrust A Greener Place (aquamation) and PALS (cremation) with your pet after they have passed. We pay them directly and handle the paperwork to ensure a smooth process. Both companies pick up from us and will deliver any ashes or memorabilia back to us.
A Greener Place
A Greener Place is a family-owned business. They are located in Mesa Arizona and use a water-based process to cremate your pet. The process uses less energy and returns more ashes to their family. Individual cremations include a name plate.
PALS
PALS has been operating in the Valley since 1987. They are well known for their outstanding care and concern for others at their time of loss, as well as for the honesty and integrity with which they treat your beloved pet. PALS understand that your pet is a member of the family.
Contact Us Today
If you have questions, or need to schedule an appointment at our Queen Creek veterinary office, please
call 480.774.6995. We’re so sorry that you and your pet are going through this.