Pets bring huge amounts of joy, happiness and companionship into our lives but unfortunately, there comes a time when we have to say goodbye.
Arranging an appointment for euthanasia can be extremely difficult. The information on this page will hopefully guide and inform you about the process and the options you have, as well as providing you with support options if you are struggling with pet loss.
Understanding Pet Euthanasia
Reasons you may be considering euthanasia
You may wish to have a consultation with the vet to discuss your pet’s condition and quality of life. This may help you to determine if euthanasia is the most compassionate choice at this time. Below are some of the reasons that you may be considering euthanasia for your pet:
- General decline in quality of life: This may present itself as an inability to eat, drink, move, or control bodily functions.
- Chronic pain: There are a number of conditions that may be causing your pet pain, for example arthritis, cancer, or severe injuries. If these cannot be managed to relieve pain and discomfort, euthanasia may be the kindest option.
- Terminal illness: Your pet may have an advanced stage of diseases with no effective treatment options to manage the symptoms.
- Behavioral Issues: Your pet may be exhibiting severe aggression that poses a threat to others, or severe anxiety that impacts your pet’s own quality of life. Where other interventions have failed, we will consider euthanasia on these grounds.
Booking an appointment
Pet euthanasia is a compassionate and humane choice to end a pet’s suffering when their quality of life has declined. The procedure entails administering medication that enables your pet to pass away peacefully.
We understand that euthanasia is a deeply personal and difficult decision to make. We will be there to support you through this process, providing guidance and care to ensure your pet’s final moments are peaceful and dignified.
Once you have decided it is time to say goodbye, you may wish to consider the following options when booking the appointment:
- Would you like to bring your pet to the practice or would you like a home visit?
- Is there a particular vet that you would like to carry out the euthanasia?
- Do you know what you will want to do with your pet’s body?
We will do all we can to accommodate your preferences and to make this decision as easy as possible for you.
The Euthanasia Process
Consultation:
When you arrive at the practice, you will be taken through to a consultation room. If you have any questions or worries at all, you can discuss these with the vet who can hopefully ease any concerns you may have. The vet will also discuss with you your pet’s aftercare options. There will the be a short consent form for you to sign to confirm your decision.
Euthanasia:
To carry out the euthanasia, the vet will need to place an intravenous cannula into your pet’s leg. Sometimes your pet might be taken into another room for this to be placed, but you can of course request that they stay with you.
If your pet has been taken into another room, they will then be brought back into the consultation room to be with you. You can spend as much time as you would like with them saying your goodbyes and providing comfort.
When you are ready, the vet will administer the euthanasia solution, which is pain-free. This is an overdose of anaesthetic, first causing unconsciousness which is then followed your pet passing away peacefully.
You are welcome to be present for this process or you may wish to leave before we carry out the euthanasia. This is an incredibly personal decision and we will respect your wishes either way.
Following the euthanasia:
If you have stayed for the euthanasia, you are welcome to spend some time with your pet afterwards.
It’s best to be prepared that often, as, or shortly after your pet passes away, they can have some muscular contractions. These are involuntary reflexes and your pet will not be aware of what is happening. Please be aware that sometimes your pet may release their bladder and/or bowels as they pass.
Your pet’s aftercare
We may ask you when you book the appointment if you have thought about what you would like to do with your pet’s body following the appointment. It is okay if you have not considered this yet and there is no pressure to make a decision. Our staff are happy to give you advice on the phone, or notify the vet that you wish to discuss the various options during the appointment.
You may wish to take a lock of hair or a paw print as a memento. We are more than happy to do this for you – it’s a very common request so please ask if you would like either of these options.
Alternative aftercare
If you prefer, you may wish to take your pet home to bury them.
Alternatively, you may wish to have them cremated at an alternative crematorium.
There are a number of alternative crematoriums in the area that you could arrange to take your pet to. You can make these arrangements on your own, or the team will be happy to help assist you. Most crematoriums will require pre booking an appointment so it is important to plan for this in advance.
Some other local pet crematoriums include:
Faithful Friends Pet Crematorium – Northampton
Meadow View Pet Crematorium – Southam
Lakeview Pet Crematorium – Market Deeping
Nottingham Pet Crematorium – Nottingham
Kings Hill Cremations – Nuneaton
Frequently Asked Questions
Is euthanasia painful for my pet?
No, euthanasia is designed to be a painless process. The solution given is an overdose of anaesthetic that will first cause unconsciousness before your pet passes away.
Can I be with my pet during euthanasia?
Yes, many pet owners find comfort in being present.
What happens after euthanasia?
You can choose between several aftercare options, such as private or communal cremation or home burial.
How do I know if it’s time?
Consider your pet’s quality of life. Your vet can help assess pain levels, mobility, and overall well-being to guide your decision.
Support Services for Pet Loss
The loss of a pet affects many people in a number of ways. Whilst we are able to help you with the clinical aspect of euthanasia, you may feel that you need additional support at this time. There are a number of resources specifically designed to help you cope with your loss.
Payment
We understand how difficult this time can be and we would like to make the payment aspect as easy as possible by giving you a number of options: