IN HOME EUTHANASIA
How We Help You Navigate This Decision
Two paths: a compassionate goodbye or a thoughtful assessment to determine if it’s time.
Euthanasia appointment- when it is just time to say good-bye.
Quality of Life Consultation- if you aren’t sure if it’s time.
This includes an exam, review of medical history, evaluation of current health status then guidance through appropriate options leading to either a palliative/hospice care plan or euthanasia.
Please call or make an appointment online.
How does scheduling work?
Making an appointment for euthanasia is a very emotional moment and can be an extremely difficult decision to make. Feel free to call to discuss euthanasia in general, see our Pet Parent Guidance page for helpful resources or make a Quality of Life Consultation to specifically discuss your pet’s health.
We are often able to provide same day, after-hours or weekend appointments- please call (415) 686-1423 if this is needed.
If your pet seems to be doing better there is no charge for the first cancellation if done 6 hours prior to the appointment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
-
Euthanasia translates to “good death”.
Providing the best end of life that we can once a good quality of life is no longer achievable.
Our goal is to help you determine what is considered a “good death” for your pet/family and work with you to achieve this as best as we can.
In veterinary medicine peaceful euthanasia is typically accomplished by an overdose of intensive sedative medications.
Death is truly a part of nature. We work hard to carry out our client’s wishes to provide a peaceful, dignified experience but there may always be moments outside of our control.
-
Quality of Life is the encompassing term including all of the things that makes an animal’s life worthy of living.
It is a very specific and individualized concept that varies for all pets and their caregivers.
The basic foundation is built on:
Willingness to eat and drink
Ability to easily urinate and defecate
Breathe well
Ambulate without overwhelming discomfort
Our treatment goal is to significantly improve upon this basic foundation to provide enjoyment of life.
We provide multiple pathways to help you assess and define this for your loved ones.
-
We create an individualized euthanasia plan to best help each pet that may include oral medications as well as injections.
Our goal is to decrease pain, stress and anxiety while allowing your pet to pass as gracefully as possible.
We utilize a two injection protocol including an initial quick injection of a combination of pain relievers and sedatives allowing your pet to slowly relax and then fall asleep. Then we give the euthanasia injection (a very strong sedative) that allows your pet to fall into a very deep sleep and then pass painlessly.
Signs you may see during the euthanasia:
Injections may cause a very brief pinch or sting when given but are often painless.
Panting and/or disorientation are normal as the medications take effect.
As your pet passes you may see muscle tremors, final breaths, urination, defecation as the body lets go. Your pet is not feeling any of these sensations.
It is common for the eyes to remain partially open.
-
There are several ways to honor your pet after euthanasia, depending on your family’s wishes.
Options include Private Cremation, Communal Cremation, and a wide range of Memorial Products.
Home burial may also be possible depending on local regulations- please research this option fully with your local government before proceeding.We can help guide you through whichever option feels right for your family.
-
Your pet is cremated privately and the ashes will be returned to you.
We provide a paw print and fur clipping if you would like.
We partner with Bubbling Wells to offer 6 free urn choices and a free clay paw print. Multiple additional memorial options/urn choices can be ordered directly through them.
These choices can be finalized either prior to euthanasia or within 48 hours after.
Fee $400
-
Your pet is cremated with others and the remains respectfully spread at Bubbling Wells in Fairfield.
We provide a paw print and fur clipping if you would like.
We partner with Bubbling Wells to offer a free clay paw print. Multiple additional memorial options can be ordered directly through them.
These choices can be finalized either prior to euthanasia or within 48 hours after.
Fee $200
-
There are many memorial products available from a variety of companies. If you choose one that requires specific preparation, please let us know so we can assist.
Home burial is possible in some areas, though there are many restrictions — please research your local regulations before selecting this option.
There are also companies that offer other services such as aquamation, taxidermy, and more. If you are considering one of these options or have a provider in mind, please call us so we can help make appropriate plans. -
Euthanasia- at home (60min) $550-$750 depending on size of your pet
Private cremation $400
Communal cremation $200
Other fees vary based on chosen aftercare or memorial items and travel distance.
For a full breakdown, please see our Pricing Page.
-
We ask for history of any bites in the last 10 days as part of California rabies protection regulations.
California law requires veterinarians to establish a valid Veterinarian–Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) before making medical recommendations.
This relationship is created during the in-person appointment, where we review your pet’s history, examine them, and understand their current needs.
-
Payment is due at the time of service. We accept credit cards and personal checks.
The loss of a companion animal can bring profound grief.
Our team is here to support you before, during and after this transition - the following resources may provide additional comfort and clarity as you navigate the days ahead.
If you need immediate support, you don’t have to navigate this alone.
The Pet Parent Grief Line offers free, 24/7 grief support for pet loss — whether you’re seeking comfort for yourself or guidance on supporting children or other pets.