When the time comes to say goodbye to a beloved pet, we can use extra support. Deciding to move forward with euthanasia is the most difficult choice a pet owner has to make. Having a pet euthanasia at home can bring you extra comfort during this difficult time and is more comfortable for your pet. Here is what you need to do to prepare for an at home pet euthanasia.
The Choice for Pet Euthanasia at Home
Before you fully make up your mind about the procedure, you should schedule a veterinary appointment for your pet to be examined by the Veterinarian. The veterinarian will thoroughly examine your animal to determine if euthanasia really is the best decision. During this exam, be sure to ask any questions you have. Once you have decided that euthanasia is the most humane option, you can decide if an at-home procedure meets your needs.
Spend Some Time with Your Pet
After you schedule an at-home euthanasia, make an effort to spend some quality time with your pet. If he or she is able, participate in some of your favorite activities together. You can prepare favorite treats if your pet is still eating. Take pictures and soak up every minute together. The more love you can show your pet during this time, the happier his or her last days will be.
Set Up a Peaceful Space
One of the biggest advantages of opting for pet euthanasia at home is being able to set up a comfortable and soothing spot for your pet. Decide where you want to place him or her for their final moments. Maybe you want to create a safe space in front of a window with a beautiful view. Or maybe you’d like to set up your pet’s favorite bed in the backyard by his favorite plant. You can add some of the following to ensure the space is welcoming and peaceful for your pet:
- Pheromones (with either a diffuser or a spray)
- His or her favorite blanket
- A piece of clothing that smells like you
- Toys
- Calming music
Decide Who You Want There
Before the at-home pet euthanasia professional arrives at your house, decide who you would like to have near you. Will your whole family be in the room to say goodbye to your pet? Do you need to call a friend to come for moral support? Would you prefer to have other pets in the room with you or in another part of the house? It is important for you to feel comfortable and secure throughout the procedure so you can give your pet your full undivided attention.
Getting Started with the Euthanasia
Once you are ready to go ahead with pet euthanasia at home, the doctor will start the process by injecting your pet with a sedative. This keeps your pet calm and lets him or her fall peacefully to sleep. You and your family can have as much time as you need with your pet until you decide to move forward. Once you give the go-ahead, the doctor will give your pet a second injection, which will enable him or her to transition painlessly.
At Westarbor Animal Hospital, we understand how difficult the euthanasia process can be. Although our hospital is not able to provide at-home euthanasia for our client’s pets, we have several very compassionate and professional service providers we can recommend who specialize in this service. If you prefer, we can perform the procedure in our hospital and offer suggestions for after care. This is good information about at-home burials for pets, and we can brief you on options for cremation. To learn more about our veterinary services, please call (734) 769-5391.
