Home Pet Euthanasia FAQ's
Deciding to have your pet euthanised (or putting your pet to sleep as people often refer to it) is a difficult and heart-breaking decision, which is why at Peaceful Paws we want to make things as simple and respectful as possible. To help with this, we have created a list of 'Home Pet Euthanasia FAQ's'. If you still have further questions after reading these, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Are you a Vet?
Yes, I am a fully qualified vet with over 15 years of experience. I am also RCVS registered.
What areas do you cover?
Peaceful Paws operates within a 90-minute (50-mile) drive of Warmley, Bristol. This means we cover Bristol, Bath, Chepstow, Trowbridge, Frome, Chippenham, Thornbury, Tetbury and many other places. Please see our Areas Covered page for more details. If you live outside these areas I may still be able to help, but please get in touch with me to discuss your requirements.
What hours do you work?
Peaceful Paws operates 7 days a week, subject to availability. All appointments need to be pre-booked in advance.
I offer various 'standard' appointments during office hours, with out-of-hours and weekend appointments incurring additional costs. Please see our Prices page for more information, or contact me to discuss your requirements.
**Please note that Peaceful Paws is not a 24-hour Veterinary service. If your pet requires medical attention, please get in touch with your local vet as soon as possible.
What is Home Euthanasia?
Home Euthanasia offers families a relaxed and respectful way to say goodbye to their pets, in a safe and familiar home setting. Your pet will gently 'go to sleep', surrounded by the family that loved them, without the stress and upset of traveling to a veterinary clinic.
How do I know if it is the right time to euthanise my pet?
Deciding to euthanise your pet can be incredibly difficult. Talking with family and friends, as well as discussing your pet's health with a vet, can help you make the right decision for you and your pet.
As an animal lover, my first concern will always be for the welfare of your pet. If you feel that your pet's quality of life has deteriorated to the point that they cannot enjoy going for a walk or playing games, or if they are in pain from existing medical conditions, then the kindest course of action may be to end their life.
Do I stay with my pet during the euthanasia?
While deciding to euthanise your pet may be the best decision for your animal, it can be incredibly difficult for you and your family. Therefore, there is no 'right or wrong' decision when it comes to being present during the process. One of the benefits of home euthanasia is your pet feels safe and secure, surrounded by loved ones, so having one family member present during the initial injection to sedate your pet is recommended, but I support any decision you and your family make.
What happens afterward?
Once your pet has been euthanised, there are several options available to you, including home burial or cremation. For more information please see our After Care page.
Can I bury my pet at home?
Yes, you can bury your pet at home.
More often than not, families choose to bury their pets in the back garden, before creating a small memorial or area of remembrance.
Please be aware that any pet buried at home will need to be buried at least 2 feet under the ground, to deter wild animals from disturbing the area. Alternatively, you may want to put a memorial over the burial site.
Can you arrange the cremation of my pet?
Yes, I am happy to arrange for your pet to be cremated at one of several specially selected Pet Crematoriums. If you choose to have an individual cremation your pet's ashes will be returned to you as soon as possible, usually within one week. For more information please read our Pet Crematoriums page.
Please note that pet cremation carries an additional cost. Please contact me to discuss your requirements before making a booking.
Can I keep my pet's ashes?
Yes, if you choose to have an individual cremation, then your pet's ashes will be returned to you.
People often have a special memorial or casket made to store their pet's ashes, and we are happy to discuss the options with you before you make a booking.
If after reading out home pet euthanasia FAQ's you still have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.