Euthanasia

As pet owners and animal lovers ourselves, we understand the emotional pain surrounding the decision to say goodbye to your pet. These animals are not just our loyal companions—they are truly members of our families. Our team will ensure that you have all of the information that you need in order to make the choice that is best for you, your family and your pet.

What is euthanasia in pets?

Euthanasia is the term used to describe ending your pet’s life. It is commonly referred to as putting down or putting pets to sleep. It is a pain-free and merciful way to ease your pet from the chronic pain or illness they are living with.

How can I tell if euthanasia is right for my pet?

It is not an easy decision to make and it is hard to know what’s the best thing to do or when. Our veterinary care team is here to listen to your concerns and provide the best advice based on your pet. As time draws near, it is normal to doubt yourself, but it helps to make a note or keep track of the new behaviour changes in your pet. As your pet’s health diminishes, their quality of life starts to decrease. This means they begin to eat less, sleep more, have more bad days than good, and are less affectionate or playful. These changes should be mentioned during their veterinary check-up.

When is euthanasia recommended for pets?

If your pet is experiencing pain we can provide pain medication, but their behaviours may still stay the same. If all forms of treatment are unsuccessful, and their behaviours persist or worsen, euthanasia may be recommended. Many owners do not want their pets to continue suffering and so they make this decision for their beloved pets. To speak with our veterinarians about your pet’s quality of life, please call us at 250-724-4444.

How does euthanasia work in pets?

We perform euthanasia in the bereavement room of our hospital where we have a comfort room available to our clients. At the request of the owner, weather permitting, we can also perform the procedure outside in the grass or even in your car. Owners are allowed to hold their loyal companion as we administer a sedative through an IV or under their skin. The doctor then gives them euthanasia medication. When given the right amount, your pet will drift to sleep and then it will deepen. The medication stops their heart, lungs and brain activity. Your pet does not feel any pain during the process. We encourage you to speak with us if you’re feeling anxious about the procedure.

What happens afterward?

Our staff will gently and respectfully prepare your pet’s body for cremation.

Aftercare options:

• Communal Cremation: Your pet is cremated with other pets and the ashes are interred at the crematorium.
• Ashes for Scattering: Your pet is cremated on its own and the ashes are returned to you in a cardboard scattering box. This option is for people who want to spread the ashes or find their own urn.
• Ashes in an Urn: Same as ashes for scattering but placed in an urn with a plaque. On the plaque, there is room for 3 lines. The urn is either a cedar urn or a ceramic urn. You can also choose other urns at an additional cost. There are also necklaces available that have reservoirs for ashes.
• Burials are not encouraged by the city. If you are out of city limits, you will need to have a hole at least 6-feet deep to prevent secondary contamination.

We have air-dry clay to make an impression of your pet’s paw print once they have passed on.