The final moments of your pet's life can be scary and overwhelming for your family. My aim is to alleviate some of this fear and confusion, offering support through every step of the process. Below, you'll find answers to common questions about end-of-life care, which can provide guidance during this challenging time.
While not always the right choice for every family, electing humane euthanasia for your pet at home offers numerous benefits compared to taking them to a veterinary office.
For scared or anxious pets, in-home euthanasia provides them with the comfort of their familiar surroundings, in their favorite spot with familiar faces and smells. This environment allows them to feel more at ease during their final moments. It also offers a less stressful and painful option for pets who are challenging to move due to their size or ailments. It allows other pets in the home to be present, which can help them grieve the loss of their friend. Additionally, in-home euthanasia allows more family members or friends to be present than in a veterinary office, and provides a private space to mourn the loss of your pet.
Appointments are generally available within 1-3 days, but occasionally bookings may extend up to one week. Every effort is made to accommodate short-notice appointments. If immediate scheduling is not possible, Dr. Cate may suggest alternative veterinarians for you to contact.
Dr. Cate services approximately a 20-mile radius around Brighton, Michigan. Please refer to Service Area for specific details. If you reside outside of this area, Dr. Cate may be able to travel to your home for an additional fee.
Upon arriving at your home, Dr. Cate will complete a brief paperwork process and accept payment (cash, check, or credit cards are accepted). She will then explain the procedure before beginning.
Dr. Cate will start by administering an injection of pain and relaxation medications to your pet, ensuring they are as comfortable as possible in their final moments. It typically takes about 5-10 minutes for this medication to take effect, but you can spend as much time as needed with your pet to say goodbye while they are sedated.
When you are ready, Dr. Cate will administer a final injection of an anesthetic medication. This will quickly and peacefully stop the heart. It's normal for your pet to experience intermittent or deep breathing, mild muscle twitching, or release their of bladder or bowels during this process. Rest assured, this method is gentle and humane, causing no pain or distress.
Dr. Cate will then use a stethoscope to confirm your pet's passing.
Most appointments take 45-60 minutes.
No specific preparations are required for the appointment, but you should decide who you would like to have present during the procedure, as well as where you would prefer your pet to spend their final moments. Whether it's on their bed, favorite blanket, the couch, or your lap, consider where your pet feels most comfortable. Weather permitting, you may choose to be indoors or outdoors if that's preferable for your pet.
Your pet may be given any prescribed medications as usual, especially those that help alleviate pain, stress, or nausea. None of these medications will interfere with the euthanasia process.
After your pet has passed, Dr. Cate will provide you with time alone to say your final goodbyes. It is encouraged to allow other pets at home a moment to say their farewells as well.
Prior to the appointment, Dr. Cate will discuss cremation and aftercare options with you to ensure she understands your preferences for your pet's remains. Following the procedure, your pet will be respectfully transported for humane cremation, unless you have chosen home burial. You will have the option to have your pet's ashes returned to you, if desired.
If you decide to bury your pet at home or arrange cremation independently, Dr. Cate will quietly depart to allow you privacy for your goodbyes and to carry out the burial or transport for cremation. Please review your local regulations regarding home burial requirements if you opt for this choice.
Cash, check, credit card, Venmo, or PayPal are accepted at the time of the appointment.
Please let Dr. Cate know if you prefer to prepay for your appointment prior to her arrival.