Pet Bereavement and Euthanasia
Saying farewell to a beloved pet can be a heart-wrenching experience. Our team at the surgery is here to support you through this difficult time, providing information about the various options available and answering any questions you may have. As animal lovers, we understand the feelings of loss, guilt and grief that come with this decision and we strive to be professional, compassionate and respectful of your wishes throughout the process.
To discuss your own pet’s situation with our team or to book them in, please contact our helpful reception team using the button below:
To help pet owners understand how a euthanasia appointment would proceed, we have put together some information below in sections that may be appropriate for you. We understand each pet is different and we aim to complete the appointment with as little stress as possible so discussing your own individual pet’s needs with our team will benefit everyone. Click the titles below to learn more and please do not hesitate to contact us.
Euthanasia at our Edenbridge clinic
Our team always try to book these types of appointments at a time that works best for you as the pet owner, but also when our clinic is quieter. This is so you can take as much time as you need to say your goodbyes and be seen in private. We have a consult room that opens onto the car park designed with this in mind and please do not worry about feeling emotional at this time. Our staff always find euthanasia appointments to be difficult as they understand how much your pet means to you and will be kind and compassionate throughout the process.
The euthanasia process
The process of euthanasia can vary from pet to pet and we will always discuss all the options available to you and your pet. This allows you to make the best decision during a very difficult time. You have the option to be present during the procedure and the following information is provided to give you an idea of what to expect.
- During the procedure, a small amount of hair may be clipped from your pet’s leg (or ear for rabbits) and a soft, flexible catheter may be inserted into a vein for comfort. This is similar to having blood taken. The catheter is taped and bandaged in place and your pet can be cuddled, held on your lap, or positioned however they are comfortable. Some pets may object to being held or to the noise of clippers and in this case, we can give them a dose of sedative before administering the final injection to make them feel calm. This means the appointment may take a little longer, around 15-20 minutes, but it can be a good option for pets that may feel stressed.
- An intravenous injection containing an overdose of anaesthetic will then be administered via the catheter. This only takes a few seconds, is completely painless and your pet will look as if they are asleep.
- We will always use our experience and understanding to make this moment as peaceful, dignified and loving as possible. Once the vet has checked your pet has peacefully passed away, we step back and let you say your final goodbyes.
What happens after the appointment?
Once you have said your goodbyes, you can either take your pet away with you for a burial at home or you can opt to have them cremated. We use the services of The Surrey Pet Cemetery and Crematorium. We find this company to be very caring and professional and the members of staff who have had their own pets cremated can highly recommend them.
This company will collect your pet from us following the appointment and, if requested, ashes will be returned to the surgery. Alternatively, you can take your pet directly to the crematorium during working hours. For further information please look at their website on the link above. They offer several cremation options which are briefly outlined below:
- Communal Cremation – your pet is cremated and a small token of the cremains are scattered at the cemetery. You will not get the option of the ashes being returned to you.
- Special Cremation – your pet is cremated individually and you have the following options:
- Cremains returned within a scatter box
- Cremains returned within a wooden casket with engraved name plate
- Cremains buried at the cemetery in a chosen grave
- Cremains scattered in the garden of remembrance
If it should be that I grow weak and pain should keep me from my sleep then you must do what must be done, for this last battle cannot be won.
You will be sad, I understand don’t let grief then stay your hand. For this day more than the rest your love for me must stand the test
We’ve had so many happy years what is to come can hold no fears. You’d not want me to suffer so the time has come, please let me go.
Take me where my needs they’ll tend and please stay with me until the end. Hold me firm and speak to me, until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time that you will see, the kindness that you did for me. Although my tail its last has waved, from pain and suffering I’ve been saved.
Please do not grieve it must be you who had this painful thing to do. We’ve been so close, we two, these years, don’t let your heart hold back it’s tears.
Euthanasia at home
For some pet owners, the idea of euthanasia at home may provide a more peaceful experience for their pet. We can arrange this at a mutually convenient time. If you would prefer a time outside of our regular hours, we recommend reaching out to Jeremy at Coming Home Vet. They are a dedicated home euthanasia veterinary service with years of experience and offer visits at any time of the week. They provide compassionate and supportive care for all members of the family. Contact us to discuss all the options available for home euthanasia appointments.
