By Courtney Prue | July 27, 2022

What Happens at a Euthanasia Appointment?

Making the decision to put your elderly or terminally ill pet to sleep is incredibly hard for pet parents. However, this is one of the most important and caring decisions you can make on your pet's behalf when they are not feeling well or suffering.

Choosing to humanely and gently let your dog or cat pass away in the comfort of your home can make the whole experience a little bit easier. Not only will your pet be most comfortable in their favourite bed, they will be surrounded by familiar smells, their own home environment and loving family members.

Our veterinarians will make sure that your family feels supported through your pet’s entire end-of-life journey and that you, the pet parents, feel comfortable that you are making the right decision. Rest Your Paws will ensure that your pet’s final moments are filled with love, care and gentle hands and that they pass away very peacefully.

Understanding what happens during a home euthanasia visit can really help your family prepare for what to expect. We can also help you prepare and plan to make the appointment as personal and loving as possible.

At Your Visit

At your scheduled visit, the veterinarian will listen to your concerns and explain the process in as much, or little, detail as you would like. We will help you to prepare a space where your pet is most comfortable, whether that means in their bed, lying in the sun outside, on their favourite couch, or in your arms.

Once your pet has settled in their favourite place, a gentle sedation will be given to relax them and reduce any discomfort they may be feeling. Only once you, your family, and your beloved pet are ready will we give a final medication that will allow your pet to pass away peacefully within a few minutes.

You may spend as much time with your pet as needed to say your final goodbyes. We can also make ink paw prints, collect a lock of fur or personalise the appointment as you wish.

After the Appointment

If Rest Your Paws is handling the cremation, we will then gently transfer your pet into our care.


If you feel it may be time or have already made the decision that pet euthanasia is the kindest option, please contact us to discuss the next step.

Do I need to prepare anything before the appointment? 

No, we will make all arrangements on your behalf so you can focus on spending quality time with your beloved pet until the very end. You may want to consider how you want to spend your pet’s last days, and how you want to remember them. Have a look at our blog Ways to Honour The Life of Your Pet which provides some great examples of how other loving pet owners have celebrated the life of their furry companions. 

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