Frequent & Common Questions (FAQs)
What you need to know….
You may have frequent and common questions regarding euthanasia and hospice especially around the appointment itself. Below are questions we routinely get regarding this difficult time.
Where should the appointment take place?
The appointment can be anywhere you would like as long as it’s legal and weather permitting. We have performed euthanasias in various places. These include – dog house, beach, couch, yard, woods, bed etc. If you aren’t sure then please ask.
How far in advance can I schedule an appointment?
Most appointments are made with 24 hour notice or same day. If you would like to a specific day and time, we recommend you make an appointment as soon as possible. You can always reschedule or cancel and there is no extra charge for that.
How long is the appointment?
The typical length of an appointment is anywhere from 30min – 1 hour. It depends on the status of your pet, you, your family, and how long you want things to take. We NEVER rush a family. But, during busy times of the year we will schedule so that we can help as many families in a day as possible.
Should my other pets be present?
Yes we recommend they be present if not for the procedure but to see their furry friend once they have passed. As long as your other pets don’t ruin the moment for you and your dying pet, they are welcome to be part of the process. They likely already know that your ailing pet is sick and this will help close the circle for them. Instead of wondering where their companion went, they will know. We know that it does help with their grief. See our pet loss resources for more information.
Should kids be present?
This is completely up to you as parents. But we do encourage kids be present as long as they are not going to upset the moment or your pet. Death is a part of life and this is a great way to show your children how saying goodbye doesn’t have to be scary. They will learn a great lesson when it comes time to make the same decision for their pets when they grow up.
Regardless, we recommend that you be up front and honest about what happened to your pet. Your children will have a better idea of when to say goodbye for their own pets as adults. See our pet loss resources for more information.
How do I know it’s my pet’s ashes I am getting?
Our crematory has been in business since 1996. They hold a certification by the International Association Of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories (IAOPCC). We have been working with them since 2013 and they have impeccable customer service. “Our individual cremation service is managed with great care under our manifest system. Ensuring that each pet is accurately tracked and cared for appropriately. You never have to worry as your pet receives the best care at this final stage of the process. The entire cremation service process is methodically documented by our Assurance ID System. This system links the chain of custody from the euthanasia all the way through to the final delivery. ” From Pet Memorial Services
Is euthanasia painful?
Does it cause my pet to have a heart attack?
The medication we use for the euthanasia itself is called pentobarbital. It is injectable anesthesia at a very high concentration. With this drug your pet goes to sleep FIRST and then the rest of their body goes through the shut down process. They do NOT have a heart attack. The medication is very quick and smooth. It’s really the only way to guarantee that our pets pass away in their sleep.
What is anticipatory grief?
Anticipatory grief has many of the same symptoms as those after a death has occurred. But it happens BEFORE the death has happened. Emotions/symptoms may include – anxiety, depression, guilt, fear, frustration with lack of information. The best way to deal with this type of grief is to plan on how you want to say goodbye to your pet and to say goodbye sooner rather than later. A week sooner is better than a day too late.
What is caregiver stress?
Taking care of a sick and dying pet can be a huge commitment. It involves changing your whole life to meet the needs of your pet. This care can include intense treatment plans, sleeping downstairs, an never taking vacation. The worse is the reality that the days with your beloved pet are counting down. You become so emotionally, physically, and mentally fatigued that you can’t be present enough in those last days loving on your pet. You are done, and you feel guilty. This is caregiver stress and it is NORMAL.
Your quality of life is as important to your pet’s quality of life and your bond with them. If caring for them has tapped you out, then it’s time to let them go. Your pet loves you and they don’t want to see you exhausted taking care of them when they know it’s time.
If we have not answered your frequent and common questions here. Feel free to contact us by phone 419-777-8557 or our request information form.
Your pets, our family.
It is an honor and a privilege that we get to help you and your pet through this transition of life and death. We are dedicated to making this process as easy as possible.
