DOG
EUTHANASIA
Compassionate Euthanasia in the Comfort of Home
At Vet At Your Door, we offer a sensitive and compassionate in-home euthanasia service for dogs, emphasizing a peaceful, dignified farewell in the familiar surroundings of your home. Our team of experienced veterinarians specializes in end-of-life care, ensuring a stress-free and painless experience for your beloved dog. We tailor our service to meet your needs, providing ample time for you and your family to say goodbye in a loving and serene environment.
​
Below are some commonly asked questions about dog euthanasia.
​
How do I know it's time to euthanize my dog?
Determining when to euthanize your dog is an incredibly challenging decision. At Vet At Your Door, we can assist you in this process by providing compassionate guidance and professional veterinary advice. We offer quality of life evaluations, either through teleconsultation or in-home visits, to assess your pet's condition. Our experienced veterinarians will consider factors such as pain management, appetite, mobility, and overall happiness. We prioritize your dog's comfort and dignity, ensuring that any decision made is in the best interest of your dog's well-being. Our team is here to support you with empathy and understanding, every step of the way.
More specifically, this difficult decision can help to be answered by observing:
​
-
Pain and Discomfort: Is your dog experiencing chronic pain that isn't relieved by medication?
-
Appetite and Hydration: Is your dog eating and drinking sufficiently? Loss of appetite can indicate suffering.
-
Hygiene: Is your dog able to maintain cleanliness? Incontinence or the inability to groom can affect their comfort and dignity.
-
Happiness and Interest: Does your dog still enjoy favorite activities or show interest in their surroundings?
-
Mobility: Can your dog move without significant pain or assistance?
-
Breathing: Is your dog experiencing difficulty breathing?
-
Overall Health: Are there other health issues that are diminishing the quality of life and cannot be managed effectively?
Remember, the decision is ultimately about ensuring the well-being and dignity of your pet in their final days. Please contact us if you would like to book a euthanasia or quality of life evaluation. We can help guide you through this challenging decision with compassion and understanding.
​
Below are some commonly asked questions that we get about dog euthanasia.
What happens during an in-home euthanasia visit?
Our veterinarians gently sedate your dog, ensuring they are completely relaxed and pain-free. Following your final goodbyes, we administer a peaceful, humane injection, allowing you to be with your dog in their familiar, comforting surroundings.
Is in-home euthanasia more comforting for my dog?
Yes, being in a familiar, stress-free environment reduces anxiety and provides comfort for your dog during their final moments.
What is the cost for at-home euthanasia?
The cost of the euthanasia procedure in the comfort of home is more expensive than a typical veterinary practice. With Vet At Your Door, you are paying for an experienced, compassionate veterinarian to come to you and spend unhurried and focused time with you, creating a meaningful, stress-free, and painless experience for you to say good-bye to your beloved pet. The cost of this at-home euthanasia service ranges from $375 to $535 depending on the size of your dog and your location. If the euthanasia is emergent (if you need us within hours / the same day), there is an added fee. We can handle the aftercare as well in a compassionate, gentle, and respectful manner. Costs of cremation and aftercare differ depending whether or not you would like your pet's ashes returned. All costs and aftercare decisions will be discussed compassionately and confirmed prior to our arrival. Please contact us for a detailed quote.
​
Can we personalize the euthanasia process?
We welcome and honor personal touches to make the experience as meaningful as possible, whether it's incorporating favorite items, playing special music, or any other personalized gestures you desire.
​
Is Euthanasia Painful for Dogs?
Euthanasia is designed to be a peaceful and pain-free process. We ensure this by sedating your dog before administering the final injection, focusing on making their last moments as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
​
What are the aftercare options for my dog?
We offer dignified aftercare options, including private cremation with a beautiful urn and customized brass name plate. For those who choose cremation without return of ashes, we offer a "burial at sea" in which your pet's ashes are placed in a memorial sphere that promotes coral reef growth and aqua life at the bottom of the ocean. A range of memorial items is also available through our online pharmacy to honor your dog's memory.
What support is available for grieving owners?
We provide grieving pet owners with resources and support, understanding that each person's journey through grief is unique.
Are your services available outside regular office hours (which are Mondays 9am-5pm, Tuesdays-Fridays 8am-5pm)?
We offer extended euthanasia hours from 5-7pm most Mondays through Thursdays, in towns that we serve in Cumberland, Androscoggin, Sagadahoc, Kennebec, and York Counties to be more accessible when you and your dog need us. During these extended euthanasia hours, the only way to reach us is using our online form.
What is the process for scheduling a euthanasia appointment?
Scheduling is compassionate and straightforward. You can contact us during office hours (9am-5pm Mondays, 8am-5pm Tuesdays through Fridays), and we're available for extended hours in certain areas as described above for your convenience. The best way to contact us is via our online form but you can also call us at (207) 536-8387 or email us at info@vetatyourdoor.com.
How can I prepare for my dog's euthanasia at home?
Creating a peaceful space with your dog's favorite comforts, in a quiet environment, can help make their final moments serene and loving.
Can I be with my dog during the euthanasia?
We encourage your presence during this time, as it can be a comfort for both you and your dog.
How do I bury my dog?
If you choose to bury your dog, we can guide you through the process, including understanding local regulations. While some families prefer a burial in their yard, others opt for a pet cemetery. It's important to ensure that home burial is permissible in your area and to follow any specific guidelines for burial depth and container type. We're here to support you in honoring your dog's memory in a way that respects both your wishes and legal requirements
​
Should I have my other animals present during the euthanasia?
We encourage other animals to be present, or if too disruptive for your experience, to come visit your dog after your dog has passed. This can help offer closure for them as well.
​
Are Dogs Scared When Euthanized?
Our approach is designed to minimize any fear or anxiety. We use sedation to ensure your dog is calm and comfortable, creating a peaceful environment for their final moments.
​
Do Dogs Pee and Poop After Euthanasia?
It is possible for involuntary bodily functions to occur as the body relaxes after death. Our compassionate team handles all aspects of the process with dignity, ensuring a respectful and caring approach.
​
Do Dogs Move After Euthanasia?
Involuntary muscle movements may occur after euthanasia, but these are natural and not a sign of pain or distress. It is the body simply "letting go". Our team is experienced in managing these occurrences with care and respect.
​
What to Do If a Dog Dies at Home at Night?
If your dog passes away at home during the night, we advise contacting us for guidance on aftercare options and support. We're here to assist you in handling this situation with dignity and respect.
​
Is it normal to feel guilty about euthanizing my dog?
Yes, this is normal. Feeling guilt is a natural part of the grieving process. We offer resources and support to help you cope with these feelings, understanding that choosing euthanasia is the last act of compassion you can give to your beloved dog so that their suffering can be relieved.
Compassionate Care in Your Dog's Final Moments
Vet At Your Door is committed to providing empathetic and respectful end-of-life care for your dog. During these difficult times, our caring team is here to support you every step of the way. For assistance, support, or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (207) 536-8387, email at info@vetatyourdoor.com, or use our online form. We are dedicated to making this challenging time as peaceful as possible for you and your beloved pet.