Benefits of In-Home Pet Euthanasia

Making the decision to euthanise your beloved dog or cat is one of the most heart-wrenching choices any pet owner can face. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, sad, and even guilty, however, it is important to remember you’re making this choice out of love and compassion for your furry friend.

What is In Home Euthanasia for Dogs or Cats

In-home euthanasia for dogs and cats refers to the practice of providing a peaceful and dignified end-of-life experience for pets in the comfort of their own homes. In many cities, the option to have a palliative care veterinarian who specialises in providing in home euthanasia services may be available.

Typically, veterinarians administer a gentle sedation first; this aids relaxation before they administer a second gentle anaesthetic medication, specifically designed to ensure peaceful passing without distress or discomfort. Rest assured the entire process is conducted with the utmost care and compassion.

When considering euthanasia options for your beloved dog or cat, there are two main choices: in-home or at a veterinary clinic.

Benefits of In Home Euthanasia

Benefits for our pets

• There’s no place like home – the sights, smells and sounds of vet clinics make pets stressed and anxious. At home our pets are comfortable and relaxed, in familiar surroundings with their favourite toys, in their favourite bed or spot in the backyard.
• No pain or suffering – your beloved pet will receive a mild sedative to be completely at peace. Only once you are ready will the vet give a painless dosage of anaesthesia and your pet will gently and peacefully drift off to sleep.
• Reduced stress & anxiety – your cat or dog may be at a point where mobility is limited, back and forth visits to the vet clinic causes unnecessary pain, stress and anxiety.
• Surrounded by loved ones – your beloved pet is able to enjoy their last moments surrounded only by those they love.
• Other pets can be present – to say goodbye and not be left wondering where their brother or sister went or when they’re coming home.
• Expert & professional care – dedicated Palliative Care Veterinarians are qualified in best practice euthanasia and end-of-life care. Your pet will be in the best hands, all in the comfort of home.

Benefits for you and your family

• Dedicated palliative care coordinator – you will be supported by a dedicated coordinator who will make all arrangements on your behalf (from the initial consultation to aftercare, cremation, memorial keepsakes and even pet loss support or grief counselling). That allows you to focus on and enjoy the precious time you have left with your beloved pet.
• Available 7 days a week – schedule appointments when convenient for your entire family, including after hours, at weekends or on short-notice; giving you all the time you need to prepare emotionally.
• No time limit on appointments – veterinarians support you through the process at your own pace and provide as much time as you need to say goodbye, in contrast to an allocated slot at a vet clinic. You will not feel rushed and can take your time to ask any questions you might have about pet cremation, burial, or even how to help your other pets adjust.
• Complete flexibility – you have complete flexibility to personalise the end-of-life experience to suit your wishes, including any special ceremonies, sharing beautiful stories and saying goodbye on your terms. Click here for meaningful ways other pet parents have memorialised their fur babies.
• Pet loss support and grief counselling – your family can be left to grieve in the privacy of your home. Most Palliative Care providers offer complimentary Pet Loss Support and Grief Counselling to support you and your family for as long as needed.
• Meet your aftercare provider in person – the provider will collect your beloved pet after the appointment and you can meet the caring team who will be cremating your pet, and feel more comfortable knowing you are in good hands.

It’s important to remember that whether you choose to put your pet to sleep at home or in the veterinary clinic – neither choice is better than the other. It is important to trust yourself, and seek support from professionals, friends & family members if you need it. You’re not alone on this journey and our team at Rest Your Paws can talk you through the options and help you to decide what is best for your pet and family.