Seven Things to Understand About In-Home Dog Euthanasia
By Dr. Bethany Hsia, Co-founder of CodaPet
As dog owners, we all hope that our dogs will live long and healthy lives. Unfortunately, the reality is that at some point, we all have to say goodbye. In-home dog euthanasia has become an increasingly popular option for pet owners who want to ensure their beloved dogs are comfortable and at peace during their final moments. Here are 7 things to understand about in-home dog euthanasia:
1. It can be a peaceful and compassionate option:
In-home dog euthanasia allows your dog to be surrounded by loved ones and in a comfortable environment with familiar sights, sounds, and scents. This can help reduce stress and nervousness for both you and your dog during an already challenging time.
2. You choose when and where it happens:
With in-home dog euthanasia, you have control over the scheduling of the appointment. This can help ensure that the family or friends you desire to be present can make it. Further, you or your dog can choose where; whether it’s a cozy spot on a couch or doggie bed, a warm spot by the fireplace, or a favorite shady spot in the yard under a
tree. This can help make the process more manageable for you, your dog, and your family.
3. It eliminates the stress of transporting your dog:
Some dogs love going to the vet’s office butfor others a trip to an animal hospital can be stressful; especially if they are already feeling ill or uncomfortable. And for others it may be a nearly impossible task if they are large and unable to get into and out of a vehicle without assistance. In-home euthanasia can help minimize this
stress as the veterinarian comes to you.
4. It may cost more than traditional euthanasia:
In-home dog euthanasia may be more expensive than euthanasia performed at a veterinary clinic or pet hospital. However, many dog owners feel that the added cost, typically about $100-300, is worth it for the peace of mind, comfort, and additional time it provides their family.
5. Aftercare options are usually the same for both types of euthanasia:
After your dog has passed away, your veterinarian can handle transportation to a crematorium or you can make
arrangements and handle aftercare for your pet. This may include cremation, burial, or other less
common choices such as taxidermy or donations to veterinary science. Your in-home euthanasia veterinarian can discuss options available in your community and assist you with these arrangements.
6. It’s okay to ask for support:
Saying goodbye to a beloved dog can be an incredibly difficult and emotional experience. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to ask for support. You can reach out to friends, family, or a professional counselor or therapist. Many people feel the loss of a pet more acutely than other losses; pet loss grief counseling is available for this reason.
7. Not all veterinarians offer in-home dog euthanasia.
If you have friends or family who have experienced a recent in-home visit by a veterinarian they can share information on who they recommend. If not, you can begin your search for an in-home veterinarian by calling your regular family veterinarian to see if they offer this service or have recommendations. Once you have
identified a caring in-home euthanasia veterinarian, reach out to learn more; and when the time is right you can schedule an appointment