In-home pet euthanasia is one of the ways that pet owners choose to say goodbye to their beloved dogs or cats. For many pets, the veterinary clinic is a place of stress and anxiety—the last things that we want our pets to feel during this difficult time. And for pet owners, home is a safe and comfortable place to spend those last precious moments with our pets and grieve their passing.

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In-Home Pet Euthanasia: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

In order to help owners make the right end-of-life choices for their pets, we have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about home euthanasia.

How do I know when it is time to say goodbye to my pet?

Our pets play an irreplaceable role in our lives, and the bond between pets and their owners is a special one. For that reason, the decision to euthanize a pet rests solely in the owner’s hands. In most cases, the pet’s level of pain and suffering and quality of life is the determining factor.

Will euthanasia be painful for my pet?

Every home euthanasia vet recommended by Paws, Whiskers & Wags makes every effort to ensure that the euthanasia process is as painless and stress-free as possible for your pet. An initial injection allows your pet to ease into a relaxed comfortable state; the second injection, which contains an anesthetic element, often goes unnoticed by pets.

Is it okay for my pet to eat before the procedure?

If your pet has an appetite, he or she may eat whatever you would like to feed them before the vet’s arrival. In some cases, a special treat can help distract your pet at the time of the sedative injection.

How long does the process take?

From start to finish, the entire procedure can last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. Our recommended home euthanasia veterinarians make every effort to explain each step of the process.

How can I help my children cope with losing their pet?

As a parent, you know what is best for your children. While older children may wish to be present during the euthanasia process, most parents make arrangements for younger ones to be out of the house during the process. In our experience, we have found that it is helpful for children to have the opportunity to say goodbye to their beloved pets at some point before the procedure.

For more information about helping children cope with pet loss, please consult our Grief Support resources.