End of Life Veterinary Service & Care
Welcome to Pets Passing
None of us like to think about it, but the reality is – loving our animals often means we will face the end of that pet’s life. Unfortunately, that end usually involves euthanasia, or putting your pet to sleep. It will always be sad, but it is the final gift we give our pets, freeing them from pain in a stress-free place most comfortable to them: home.
A True Family Member
When the time comes, there are ways to make the passing less stressful for both you and your pet. Here at Pets Passing, we understand what you are going through. Pets are more than just animals, they’re our family.
For our veterinarian, Dr. Bryan Parrott, this is not just a job; he’s also a pet owner, and he’s been there, too. For him and the rest of the Pets Passing team, nothing is more important than making this difficult decision as easy and peaceful as possible.
In Home Euthanasia
Here at Pets Passing, we understand that this is a difficult time. Allow us to answer your questions and concerns with our FAQs and procedural questions below
- Scheduling
Fill out the form or call 978-468-6307 to speak with one of our technicians and to schedule a visit.
- What To Expect
We recommend making time for your entire family to say goodbye. If you have children, explain what’s happening in advance to help them prepare for the loss of their friend.
The American Humane Association recommends books such as Mister Rogers’ When a Pet Dies as a way to provide comfort and understanding for children.
See our FAQ page for additional information.
You may want to sit with your pet so you can comfort them while the vet gives them the medication. Dr. Parrott will walk you through every step of the process.
If you choose not to be in the room during the procedure, Dr. Parrott will ensure your pet is comfortable and content in their final moments.
Before anything, Dr. Parrott will give your pet a sedative to help keep them calm and relaxed.
The medication most vets use for euthanasia is called pentobarbital. In large doses, it begins to shut down heart and brain functions usually within one or two minutes. Your pet will be unconscious and shouldn’t feel a thing.
When your pet passes, their eyes may not fully close. Their whole body will relax, and they may urinate or defecate. You may see them twitch or take a final gasping breath. This can be startling, but it is completely normal and does not mean your pet is in pain.
- Things To Consider
Making the decision to put your pet to sleep is one of the hardest decisions the dedicated pet-parent will have to make.
We want what’s best for our animals, and none of want to see our pets in pain. But how do you make that decision? Too early and you may deprive your pet of a few days, but too late and your pet could suffer needlessly. It’s not about the number of their days – it’s about the quality of those days. It will always be your call, but here are a few things to consider:
Pain – Is your pet is in pain that cannot be controlled with medication? Then this might be the right time to minimize their suffering.
Distress – This can include persistent or increasing restlessness, anxiety, whimpering, fear or disorientation. This can be more difficult to discern, and Dr. Parrott and your primary small-animal vet will help you make the right call.
Difficulty Breathing – When your pet can’t get enough oxygen it affects their entire body. It can cause distress and even pain. Difficulty breathing is often one of the biggest signs that your pet is reaching the end of their life.
Other considerations in evaluating your pet’s quality of life include:
- Hunger/lack of appetite
- Excessive thirst/dehydration
- Nausea/vomiting
- Immobility
- Incontinence
- Lethargy/unhappiness