Reasons to consider pet euthanasia at home

Date

September 13th, 2023

Category

Article

Written by

Paul Manktelow

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Pet owners often acknowledge that choosing pet euthanasia (putting a pet to sleep) is the kindest, final decision they can make for their pet. But there’s another decision that goes alongside it which can be the kindest one of all – considering having home euthanasia rather than that final appointment at the veterinary surgery.

Of course every decision depends on individual circumstances and wishes, but with many decades of experience, Dr. Paul has several reasons why home euthanasia could be a better option for your pet – and for you.

Supports a difficult decision

When quality of life has become difficult for our pets, making that final decision can be difficult and painful – not wanting to do it, but knowing it’s for the best can make the decision feel like it’s out of your control. But choosing where and when you say goodbye to your pet can help you manage both anticipatory grief and the moment itself.

Time

Although euthanasia appointments at veterinary practices aim to offer the same respect and consideration, the reality is that these appointments take place at a busy clinic where emergencies and unforeseen delays happen. Anything which has an impact on the appointment time will also have a ripple effect on well-being at this difficult time. Although veterinary surgeries make huge efforts to care for both families and pets at the time, unexpected delays or problems with schedules can certainly affect how you manage the experience – before, during and after.

For home euthanasia, the time is booked in, with allowances for you and your family’s last moments with a beloved pet. This way, home euthanasia gives you the time you and your pet need, including that last bit of quality time at home, as you prepare to say goodbye.

Comfort

Home can be a bit of a sanctuary for all of us – in an ideal world, it’s where we can relax in familiar surroundings and take comfort at the end of the day. It’s also the place where many of us would want to find familiarity and comfort at the end of our lives – and this is no different for our pets. Being at home can be very reassuring for a poorly pet, whilst remaining in that favourite spot or bed can make their passing much more comfortable. At home, you may also feel more comfortable, particularly when it comes to coping with your emotions and / or supporting your family.

Calm

Many pets find being at the veterinary surgery stressful – even for those gentle appointments for check ups and vaccinations. Often they show this stress in their behaviour on arrival. Having pet euthanasia performed at home in familiar surroundings removes any feelings of stress, fear and apprehension that may be experienced in a clinical setting. It also means there will be no background noises from a busy veterinary practice. Instead, you have control of the setting, to make it as calm as possible and allow a peaceful passing for your pet.

Family

For most of us, our pets are members of our family and it’s at times like this that families often want to be together. Home euthanasia allows the entire family to attend their pet’s farewell, if this is what they wish. This not only means the family is together, it also honours the pet’s status as a beloved family member, and gives all the chance for that final goodbye.

Remember, the most important thing with pet euthanasia is making the best choice possible at the time it’s needed, for you and your pet. Please talk to us if this is something we can help you with – reach out to our team here today.