Saying Goodbye: What to Know About In-Home Euthanasia

Saying goodbye is never easy. Making the decision to euthanize a pet is often fraught with feelings of sadness, doubt, and guilt. Helping your pet say goodbye surrounded by the people and things they love can be one of the greatest gifts you can give. At-home euthanasia has become increasingly popular among pet owners who find today’s version simpler and more affordable than in year’s past. We work with many dog and cat owners each year who elect to spend their pet’s final moments at home. It can be a serene, almost peaceful experience. If you’re considering in-home euthanasia for your beloved companion, here are a few things you should know.

The Benefits of In-Home Euthanasia

The decision to euthanize a pet is something you should discuss thoroughly with a trusted veterinarian. Often there are no clear-cut answers, but pet owners choosing euthanasia always have one thing in common: They all have the absolute best interests of the pet in mind. Why might you prefer in-home euthanasia to having the process performed at a vet’s office?

• The vet’s office can be anxiety inducing for some pets. Sights, smells, and unfamiliar surroundings may make it more difficult for your pet to feel comfortable.
• At home, your pet can be surrounded by her favorite toys, all the people who love her, and even other pets in the family as she passes.
• Your family is free to grieve in peace and even practice any religious customs or rituals you find appropriate.

The Process of Euthanasia At-Home

Of course, every home and pet is different; here is a general idea of what to expect when you decide to have your pet euthanized peacefully at home.

1. Your veterinarian arrives and you’ll spend a few minutes discussing the process and reviewing paperwork. You’ll then work to make your pet as comfortable as possible; for some animals, this is lying in their bed surrounded by stuffed animals. For others, it’s outside in the grass. Wherever you think your pet will feel calmest and most at peace is the ideal place for the procedure.
2. The first step involves administration of a mild sedative using a small injection. You’ll stay with your pet the whole time. The effects of the sedative usually peak within 10-15 minutes. This is a good time to pet your dog or cat and speak soothingly to her.
3. Finally, an intravenous dosage of anesthesia is given which shuts off your pet’s brain activity. She will feel no pain; to her, the process will feel like falling into a deep sleep. This final part of the process is usually complete in about 1-3 minutes.
4. You and your vet will discuss your wishes for transporting your pet’s body. Some pet owners choose to take their companion for cremation; others choose to bury it at home with a small ceremony. The choice is entirely up to you.

There are many more questions you may want answered before determining at-home euthanasia is right for you and your pet. Would palliative care be a preferable solution? How soon should you consider the procedure? Are you ready to say goodbye?  

Making the decision to euthanize a pet is never easy. Our vets want you to understand your options, have your questions answered, and feel at peace about the process. Remember, our pets live in the present; they have no concept of past memories or days to come. Making the decision that’s best for your pet is the ultimate gift you can give. We want you to feel informed and prepared should that day come to pass; when you’re ready, our vets will be with you every step of the way.