Pet Euthanasia at Home

Peaceful Paws offers a gentle, dignified way to say farewell to your beloved pets, in the safe, familiar surroundings of your family home.  Our home euthanasia service means you don't need to visit a veterinary clinic to say goodbye to your four-legged friends.

Deciding to euthanise your pet can be a difficult decision, so please read our advice below, then contact us if you need more assistance.

Why should you consider euthanasia?

There are many reasons why you may need to consider euthanising your pet, but the most common reasons include:

  • Medical conditions that affect their quality of life
  • Surgical complications that affect their quality of life
  • Loss of mental faculties which impact their day-to-day living and toileting
  • Chronic, ongoing, pain
  • Changes within the family home
  • Behavioural concerns

Whatever the individual reason for considering euthanising your pet, the single most important factor is your pet's quality of life, or lack of it.

Assessing your pet's quality of life

To help you assess your pet's quality of life, you can ask yourself these basic questions,

  • Does my pet have good mobility?
    • Can your pet move around your home and garden freely?  Do they enjoy exploring and going on walks?
  • Does my pet have a good appetite?
    • If your pet is not eating properly it may be a sign that they are in pain or suffering from a health issue.
  • Does my pet enjoy interactions with family members?
    • Does your pet still greet you when you return home, do they enjoy cuddles and being petted?
  • Does my pet appear to be in pain or discomfort?
    • Animals are very good at masking health issues, but if your pet is struggling to walk or has laboured breathing they may be in constant pain.

What happens during euthanasia at home?

Peaceful Paws will visit your property at a pre-arranged date and time to carry out the euthanasia.

The vet will administer a powerful sedative, via injection, to help your pet sleep.  While this is done, some or all of your family members can comfort your pet.

Within 10-20 minutes your pet will be in a deep sleep.  During these minutes, family members can continue to comfort your pet, as well as say their farewells.

Once ready, the vet will administer the final injection.  The site of the injection will vary depending on the size and type of pet being euthanised, but the important thing to remember is that your pet will feel no pain, nor will they be aware of what is happening.

The vet will stay with your pet while they 'slip away'.

If you are planning to bury your pet at home, the vet will leave your pet with you, in the comfort of their own bed.

If you would prefer to have your pet cremated, the vet will wrap your pet in a blanket and transport them to the local pet crematorium.

Please see our 'After Care' page for more information.