What to Expect

Simple paperwork will be completed first. It includes permission for us to perform the euthanasia and your aftercare choice for your pet.

Choosing whether or not to be with your pet during the procedure (sedation, the last injection, both, or neither) is a very personal decision. It comes easily for some and with great difficulty for others. Please do whatever makes you most comfortable —that is the most important thing.

The process includes two separate injections. The first is an injection beneath the skin that will help induce relaxation and prevent unnecessary stress or discomfort for your pet during the procedure. This is an anesthetic and will produce a state of deep sleep. If you have chosen to stay with your pet, he or she can be in nearly any position for this injection. It can take up to 5 minutes for this medication to take effect. Feel free to comfort and talk to your pet if you like. Please note that your pet’s eyes are likely to remain open during the sedation period as well as the final injection, and is in no way an indication of consciousness.

Once your pet has settled into a deep sleep and you are ready‚ a small area over a vein will be shaved in preparation for the last injection. An overdose of a very powerful anesthetic will be administered into the chosen vein. The medication causes a very peaceful, painless, and quick passing. After a minute or so, using a stethoscope‚ the absence of a heartbeat will be confirmed.

After this portion of the procedure is over‚ you will be provided with as much privacy as you need to say your final good–byes. Please know that any and all emotions in response to your loss are to be expected and that we are familiar and comfortable with this.

When you are ready‚ we will take your pet with us or leave your pet with you as per your wishes. Please see aftercare for more information.