Whether we are helping you make the decision to euthanize, or supporting you through the decision you have already made, making this process as painless (for you, making it painless for your pet is the easy part) and dignified as possible is our goal, and to be frank, our team is really good at it.

You and your pet will be taken to a comfortable room, where a technician or veterinary social worker will come to discuss what’s happening with your pet, and whether your pet will be more comfortable with light sedation as an IV catheter is placed.  If you have any questions, they will be able to answer them for you.

When your pet is calm and comfortable, a technician will come to the room to place an intravenous (IV) catheter.  This is usually necessary for the veterinarian to administer medications, although this step can be skipped for certain cats.

At some point between the sedative administration and spending some addition time with your pet (Step #4), we will go through some paperwork together. This gives us permission to perform carry out the euthanasia process, and makes sure that we understand your wishes for your pet’s final arrangements. Payment is usually taken at this time, in the same room – this allows you to continue to spend time with your pet.

At this point, depending on your pet’s condition, you can spend some time saying goodbye. We will never rush you – you summon us with the touch of a button.

A veterinarian will answer any final questions, and then perform the euthanasia. This is a two-step process.  The first medication is an anesthetic induction agent commonly used to prepare patients (human and animal) for surgery. This deeply relaxes your pet, and makes the process much easier for both of you. At this point, if you decide you no longer wish to be present, you have the option to step out. The second medication is also an anesthetic agent, at a very high dose. The entire process generally takes less than 2 minutes.

After we verify that your pet is deceased, we will give you as much time as you need to say your final goodbyes. If we did not make a foam paw print impression for you earlier, we will do that now.

When you are ready, you walk out of the dedicated exit door. We will take care of the rest.

Please understand that you do not have to be present for euthanasia. For some people, it is important to be there. Other pet owners do not want this to be their last image of a beloved pet, and do not wish to be present. This is a deeply personal decision, and may be different for different members of your family. We are not here to judge you – we are here to help you through this difficult time.