Saying Goodbye To Your Pet At Home

How much notice do you need in order to arrange a home visit?

We ask for at least 24 hours notice if possible so that adequate arrangements can be made - this includes working out transportation routes, parking requirements and after care options.

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I'm still unsure if this is the right decision, what shall I do? 

Please visit our pages designed to help you recognise the signs that it may be time to say goodbye - for dogs and cats. Alternatively, our staff are on hand to help answer any questions that you may have.

 

How do I know if my pet is in pain?

There are many signs that are often missed by pet owners that are useful to know, too many to list in a short answer, But we’d encourage you to read this article on our website to learn more.

 

What areas will you come out to?

Please check the map below for the areas we currently service.

 

Should I have my children present at the time of saying goodbye?

We are very happy for the whole family to be present, but this is a personal choice. Children react differently based on their age and stage of emotional development. It is quite normal to be upset, for example, and it can help children to be present as death is a natural part of life. So, as painful and emotional as the loss of a pet is, if it is a peaceful process then children will build resilience by experiencing the passing of a pet. 

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Should I have my other pets present at the time of saying goodbye?

The answer to this is maybe, it depends on the pet. Some pets seem not to react at all to the loss of a companion, but particularly bonded animals do suffer grief like we do. If you have a bonded and calm other pet that will not disrupt the pet that is being euthanised, then it’s not likely to be a problem. But if you have a pet that gets upset and disturbs the process, then it may be best to keep them away from events. This is a question to be discussed with us before the euthanasia.

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What are the cremation options?

We offer three main options which are receiving your pet’s ashes back in a scatter box, a terracotta urn or an engraved wooden casket. There are other options so please do ask when you make your appointment.

 

Can I bury my pet at home?

You can, although there are certain regulations you need to bear in mind. You cannot bury your pet if you do not own the burial site - for example in a nearby park or if you are renting your home. It must be 50 m away from water sources and several feet deep.  And if your pet has had chemotherapy or controlled drugs such as the euthanasia medication then it is better to choose cremation with the ashes back to scatter or bury.

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Is a natural death an option?

Some pet owners don’t believe in euthanasia, while others can’t see their way to having any part in ending their beloved pet’s life. Whatever the reason, some owners believe a natural death is the best choice for their pet. A natural death might seem like an ideal end, but it’s an option that comes with a warning label. As with humans, animals can simply die peacefully and naturally in their sleep, but this is a rarity and unlikely to happen in the way you would like.

 

Choosing a natural death means that your pet has to ride through the illness to the end, which might take a lot of time. You may see your pet suffer, which can be emotionally distressing for both you, your family, and your pet. It can be a tough option to take, but for those who want to make this choice, your vet will be there to help you through the process, explaining as much as they can about what to expect. And offering palliative care as best possible. Be prepared however to use many medications as your vet is obliged to ensure that your pet does not suffer. This is what human doctors do at the end of a human life and many of us have wished we could offer a more humane, dignified alternative as we can for pets.