What if my pet is fearful or aggressive?

There are many options for dealing with a fearful or aggressive pet. The most important thing is that your pet be as comfortable as possible and that no one gets injured during the process. While most dogs and cats respond very well to me (I have a very soft, quiet, re-assuring demeanor), some may still be fearful toward anyone new. If this is the case, speak with us about some of the options that are available for dealing with this situation. Some options that might be considered include:

• Providing you with a sedative injection that someone can give to the pet without me being in the room

• Arranging for oral anti-anxiety medications (from your regular vet) to be given prior to the appointment

• Using a muzzle or other type of restraint during just the initial injection

Regardless of the method used, we will do whatever we can to ensure that this process is as stress free and peaceful as possible for everyone involved.

If necessary, we can arrange a Quality of Life Assessment, that will include discussion of medications that you may be able to administer which may help to ease your pet into a deep sleep prior to our appointment.

Can children be present?

This is a question that only you can answer, based upon your children's age(s), maturity level, and desires. If they are old enough to understand what is happening, it may be helpful to find out what they would like to do. It is not a problem for me having children present, as long as they are able to be well behaved during the procedure and won't do anything to make the procedure less comfortable for the pet (or you). While every family and situation is different, I find that most people choose to have young children have the opportunity to say good-bye to the pet prior to my arrival and then not be present for the actual procedure. Click on the link below for some additional useful info.

What about other pets?

Similar to children, it all depends on the other pets and their personalities. I have never found another pet to be traumatized by being present during a home visit euthanasia. Whenever possible, I generally recommend that other pets be allowed to join us, but have the freedom to leave if they would like. However, if other pets would be a distraction to you or the transitioning pet, it may be better if they are kept quiet in another room until after the procedure. Please keep in mind that dogs, in particular, usually don’t like to be separated from their families, especially during emotional times (and I enjoy giving love and pets to the other dogs, when appropriate).

Where can we do the procedure?

Really, any place that you and your pet are comfortable - on the floor, in your yard, on a favorite bed, in your lap, in the car, etc. While most people do the procedure in the comfort of their own homes/yards, it is sometimes possible to do the procedure in other places, as long as certain criteria can be appropriately addressed:

• Does the location provide the necessary privacy for the procedure and care of the body afterwards?

• Are there likely to be passers-by (especially children) who may be curious about, or uncomfortable with seeing the procedure?

• Can we easily transport the pet to and from the location?

• Do we have permission to use the space?

• Will it require additional time for travel? (there may be additional charges if this is the case)

For the above reasons, I find that public spaces such as parks, beaches, etc., are usually not appropriate. If you have any questions about the suitability of a particular location, just ask!