End Of Life Care
What To Expect

BEFORE THE PROCEDURE:

You will be permitted to remain with your pet throughout the procedure, as we strive to ensure your pet's comfort during this time. A special room has been prepared to facilitate the process effectively.

Prior to the commencement of euthanasia, you will be required to sign a consent form and discuss the aftercare plan with the admitting staff member. Payment for services is typically collected in advance of the procedure, as this approach is more convenient for most pet owners than managing payment afterward. An intravenous catheter will generally be placed in your pet to allow safe access to the vein.

DURING THE PROCEDURE

Prior to administering any additional medications, the veterinarian will prepare to gently sedate your pet. This initial sedation enables your pet to relax and enter a deep state of sleep, during which you may provide comfort and reassurance. This is the extent of your pet's awareness at this stage, and it typically takes approximately five to seven minutes for sedation to take effect.

It is not unusual for pets to exhibit partially open eyes even after they are fully sedated. The veterinarian will assess your pet to confirm that they are completely asleep before proceeding with the final injection.

Once sedation is confirmed, the veterinarian will carefully administer the final injection, which is generally delivered through the IV catheter. This injection induces a rapid and painless loss of consciousness, leading to the end of life for your pet. It is normal for the pet to exhibit a few deeper breaths or minor movements during this process, which should not be interpreted as signs of distress. 

Following the procedure, the veterinarian will utilize a stethoscope to verify that your pet has passed before proceeding with the necessary aftercare arrangements.