Frequently Asked Questions About In-Home Pet Euthanasia
Answers to common questions about the in-home euthanasia process, what to expect during your appointment, and how to prepare your pet and family.
How is an in-home euthanasia service different from a mobile veterinary clinic?
Peace for Paws provides compassionate, in-home pet euthanasia exclusively, unlike mobile veterinary practices that offer general care. We’ve received advanced certification in euthanasia best practices from the Companion Animal Euthanasia Training Academy. We manage the entire process—from sedation to aftercare and ash delivery—to ensure a peaceful and personalized experience in your home. Mobile vets may offer euthanasia, but it is not their primary service, and they may not provide the same level of dedicated end-of-life care.
How do I know when it’s time to euthanize my pet at home?
If you answer “yes” to most of these questions, your pet’s quality of life may be compromised:
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Is my pet refusing food or water?
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Is my pet in visible discomfort (e.g., panting, restlessness, or difficulty breathing)?
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Has my pet lost interest in favorite activities, toys, or treats?
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Is my pet experiencing incontinence or frequent accidents?
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Is my pet confused, anxious, or showing signs of cognitive decline?
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Can my pet no longer walk without assistance?
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Are the bad days outnumbering the good?
If these apply, in-home euthanasia may be the most compassionate choice.
How long does a home euthanasia appointment take?
Most in-home euthanasia appointments last 30 to 40 minutes. We schedule one hour to provide ample time for you and your pet to say goodbye without feeling rushed.
What should I expect during the in-home euthanasia appointment?
We begin with a gentle greeting and a non-invasive evaluation of your pet. After administering a sedation injection to ensure comfort, we create a paw print and may collect a fur clipping. Once your pet is deeply sedated, we administer the final injection. You’ll have private time to say goodbye. If cremation is chosen, we’ll handle transportation. For pets over 20 pounds, we’ll need your help moving them. You’re welcome to accompany us to the vehicle for a final farewell.
Does euthanasia hurt my pet?
Dr. Sarena’s training through the Companion Animal Euthanasia Training Academy ensures the most peaceful and gentle process possible. While the sedation injection may cause minor discomfort, your pet will quickly become relaxed and unaware of the final injection. Dr. Sarena will adjust care as needed to make the experience as pain-free and comforting as possible.
Can my pet take their medications on the day of euthanasia?
Yes, please continue giving your pet their medications as prescribed on the day of the appointment.
Can my pet eat before the euthanasia appointment?
Yes, if your pet is still interested in food, please let them enjoy a treat or small meal. A special food (like pizza, burger, or even chocolate) can help distract your pet during the sedation injection. Just avoid choking hazards or overfeeding right before the visit.
Where should my pet be during the in-home euthanasia visit?
Your pet should be wherever they feel most comfortable. Adjustments may be made to ensure safety and minimize stress, but the goal is to keep your pet relaxed and at peace.
How do I prepare for an in-home pet euthanasia appointment?
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Prepare a tasty treat if your pet can eat
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Have all family members present before the scheduled time
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Let dogs relieve themselves before I arrive
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Confine shy cats to a small, quiet space without hiding spots
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Spend meaningful time with your pet leading up to the appointment
Can other pets be present during the euthanasia appointment?
Other pets can be present if they’re calm and not disruptive. Some families choose to allow other pets to say goodbye afterward instead. We can help guide what’s best during the appointment.
How can I involve my children in the pet euthanasia process?
Whether children attend is up to the parents. Some families have their children write goodbye letters, draw pictures, or send flowers with the pet. These items can be cremated with your pet as a meaningful farewell.
Do you accept CareCredit for in-home pet euthanasia services?
No, we do not accept CareCredit. We accept payment via credit card or cash at the time of the appointment.