I recently had to go through the heartbreaking process of saying goodbye to a pet. My cat, Rudy, was old and in pain. It was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make, but it was time to let her go. Although it was a sad experience, I was grateful she was able to stay at home for the process and that I was able to stay by her side.
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Years ago, a friend told me about an in-home euthanasia service in our area — I had no idea such a service existed. It’s the last thing you want to look up as a pet owner, but when I knew it was coming, I searched online for service to perform the procedure. There are several in-home euthanasia services in Australia, including Vet Around in Sydney, Farewell My Friend in Perth, and My Best Friend in Melbourne. Your regular veterinarian might provide this service, too, so it’s worth inquiring if you’re more comfortable with the same vet.
I called the vet early in the morning for a consultation and told her the issue. She asked me some questions about the situation and explained the possible outcomes. After weighing my decision, I called to schedule a time for her to visit, and a few hours later, a veterinarian showed up. She was supportive and gently explained the process to me and my husband. She also asked how involved we wanted to be; we chose to stay for the first shot, which makes your pet unconscious, then leave for the second, which puts them down.
Money is the last thing you want to think about at a time like this. But unfortunately, most of us aren’t in a position to not consider cost. The vet I used (in the Los Angeles area) charged $US375 ($498) for euthanasia and an extra $US100 ($133) for cremation. But prices for these services vary depending on where you live and what kind of aftercare you want, so remember to do your research and consider your options carefully. It’s obviously a bit more expensive than performing the service at a vet’s office.
Even if your pets are healthy, it might be useful to research your options in case of an emergency. There’s no getting around the heartbreak, but I was grateful such a service exists.
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2 responses to “What It’s Like To Put Down Your Pet At Home”
I think any family vet will perform this in home service. Eight years ago, I organised the day for my beloved canine companion who was in the final stages of an aggressive cancer. The time leading up to it was a serious of normal events for him, but freighted with significance with me. Our last trip to the park, lying on the grass together and looking up at the sky.
When the vet came to the door, my dog went to answer it. The vet said it was great that he was still clear-minded enough to be able to do this, that I hadn’t postponed the euthanasia till his mind was so clouded with pain that he didn’t recognise anyone. The injections were carried out quickly on his favourite cushion, and the vet bowed out quickly to not interfere with the moments. It was a horribly traumatic time for me, but the vet’s assistance made the end mercifully painless for my mate. /tears
Damn man, it is definitely a painful process. Not looking forward to our eventual day 🙁