While some pets die of old age in the comfort of their own home, many others become seriously ill, get injured in some way or experience a significantly diminished quality of life as they grow very old. In these situations, it may be necessary for you to consider having your pet put to sleep (euthanized) in order to spare it from pain and suffering. Knowing when it’s time to put you loved pet to rest is difficult, but talk to your veterinarian who is best-qualified person to guide you through this difficult decision. Some signs that may indicate your pet is suffering or no longer enjoying a good quality of life are:

• Chronic pain that cannot be controlled with medication.
• Vomiting or diarrhea that is causing dehydration and/or significant weight loss.
• Pet is not eating or will only eat if forced fed.
• Incontinent to the degree that pet frequently soils himself.
• Lost interest in all or most of his/her favorite activities.
• Cannot stand on his/her own or falls down when trying to walk.
• Chronic labored breathing or coughing.

We offer humane euthanasia at our hospital and in most cases we use mild sedative to calm you pet before we administer the final euthanasia solution. If is not an emergency, we prefer you book your appointment before or after office hours so you can spend as much time as possible with your beloved pet to say the final goodbye.

Cremation is the most popular choice, and you can choose whether or not you would like to have your pet’s ashes returned to you. We offer a choice of urns and personalized memorials, as well as paw impressions. Burial is another option, and we can find a pet cemetery for you. You may also want to bury your pet in your own yard, but before doing so, be sure to check your local ordinances for any restrictions.

In some exceptional circumstances, such as very large debilitating animals that can’t easily brought to the hospital and only to our existing client, we offer in home humane euthanasia. Please arrange in advance with your veterinarian as this service is difficult to schedule during office hours.