What to expect on the day
We know this can all feel very daunting so we have outlined the main steps as a guide for you below
Our main aim is to make this process as peaceful and as easy as it possibly can be for you and your pet, so please feel free to ask for anything you feel may help you. Most visits typically last between 40 minutes to 1 hour. We are happy to answer any further questions you may have when you contact us.
Gentle sedation
We use a sedation to relax your pet before the euthanasia process. The sedation injection also includes a pain relief so your pet will be free of any discomfort. The initial injection can sting a little but we encourage you to give lots of reassurance and cuddles. The injection will be complete within a few seconds and normally takes 5 -10 minutes to have an effect, depending on the pet.
Placing the IV
In dogs, the quickest way to administer the final injection is via placement of an intravenous (IV) catheter. This can be difficult in older or poorly pets as the circulation can be compromised. If we are unable to place an IV, we can administer the final injection into the tummy. In cats, we tend to administer the injection into the tummy as the gentlest way to let them go, but can place an IV on request.
Final injection
The final injection we give is an overdose of an anaesthetic agent. Your pet will drift deeper into an anaesthetic plane. You are welcome to hold your pet or leave them on their beds or favourite blankets, whatever feels most comfortable. There may be an involuntarily release of bodily functions as your pet passes, but we endeavour to make this as dignified as possible. We will then help with the aftercare.