Making the decision to end a pet’s suffering is not easy. While experiencing feelings of sadness, grief, anger and guilt, it can be difficult to choose what is right for your pet and family. As much as we’d like them to, most pets don’t die naturally and peacefully in their sleep. When the decision is made to end a pet’s suffering, one can bring their pet to a veterinary hospital for euthanasia or opt for euthanasia at home. At- home euthanasia is an option that many people aren’t aware of and here are 3 reasons why I think it’s right for you.
1. COMFORT FOR YOUR PET-Home is a familiar and comfortable environment for your pet. Most pets show signs of being fearful or anxious when brought to a veterinary hospital. Being around different animals, faces, and unfamiliar sounds and smells can be overwhelming. Some pets, especially cats, don’t seem to enjoy the car ride to the hospital, either. So, why take the chance that your pet may feel negative emotions when brought to your animal hospital when you have another option? Close to 100% of the pets I euthanized at an in-home setting were comfortable and unafraid for their last moments. You can give them this precious gift of a peaceful ending.
2. COMFORT FOR YOUR FAMILY-In a hospital setting, some people don’t feel comfortable fully expressing their emotions. They may not want to let other people know how much this is affecting them. When a pet is euthanized at home, people are free to express their emotions in private. Additionally, you may notice that the other pets in the house already know that their companion is sick and they seem to intuitively understand the passage of death, which lessens the chance that they will become depressed afterwards. With at-home euthanasia, you can play soft music, light candles, or say prayers. You can, also, have multiple family members or friends over to say their goodbyes, too. Basically, you are free to do whatever you need to make the transition as peaceful as possible.
3. PEACE OF MIND – I have the flexibility to be available a day or two in advance or even the same day and can often accommodate appointments on evenings, weekends, or holidays. The procedure can be done at your pet’s favorite spot whether it be a sun room, special couch, the backyard, or even a forest preserve. Additionally, I can spend as much time at an appointment as needed walking you through the procedure, discussing your pet’s condition, and making sure you have enough time afterwards to grieve and say goodbye.
If you find yourself facing this extremely difficult decision, consider at-home euthanasia for your pet. Each week I receive cards and letters from people expressing their gratitude to me for helping their pet transition so peacefully. Many people don’t realize that such a service exists, so to spread the word, please share this article with your family, friends, and coworkers. It’s better to know your options before you need them because when the time comes, emotions may affect your thought processes.
Dr. Kari Trotsky is the founder of Peaceful Endings – an at-home euthanasia service for dogs and cats. She has over 15 years of experience as a veterinarian and serves Chicago and the suburbs. Please visit her website – PeacefulEndings.net. You can reach her by phone at 630-205-4275 or by email at DrKari@PeacefulEndings.net.
