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Euthanasia

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” – Anatole France

We know what an important part of your family your pet is and that this is a very difficult time for you and your family. Our goal is to make this process as peaceful as we can for your pet and to support you both through this difficult time.

Many families struggle with the decision of when to put a pet to sleep. Quality of life scales can be helpful for some families during this process and there are several- one may speak more to you than another. Please reach out to us to talk if you have questions about the timing of this decision.

Quality of Life Scale Quality of Life Scale by Dr. McVety Pet Quality of Life Calendar How will I know it’s time? Ohio State: How will I know when it’s time?

“There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.” – Washington Irving

What To Expect During This Visit: PREPARING FAMILIES FOR EUTHANASIA

Home Euthanasia or After-Hours Euthanasia: Depending on the circumstances surrounding the need and timing of putting your pet to sleep, some owners prefer to schedule a home euthanasia. If you would like to consider this option, please call us and we can provide contact information for veterinarians in our local area who provide this service.

If your pet has an emergent or urgent need to be put to sleep outside of our normal business hours, all of our local 24 emergency hospitals are able to euthanize your pet as well as offer after care services such as cremation.

What if my pet passes away at home? If your pet passes away at home, you may bring their body to our hospital during regular business hours or to any of the ER hospitals after hours for cremation and aftercare services if desired. Please call us to let us know you are coming so we can prepare a room to receive your pet and discuss aftercare options with you.

After Your Pet Is Gone:

“What is lovely never dies, but passes into another loveliness, star-dust or sea-foam, flower or winged air.” — Thomas Bailey Aldrich

Losing a pet may be one of the hardest goodbyes you face, the grief can be overwhelming. Know that we understand the pain and loss that you feel. There are pet loss support hotlines to discuss your grief with others and many resources for both adults and children coping with the loss of a beloved pet. Making a memorial to your pet can be a healing step.

Guide to planning ahead Do animals grieve? Helping children cope Coping with loss Lap of Love Ohio State University – Veterinary Medical Center