We strive to ease your anxiety about the process of euthanasia by being open about the process. It truly is the most beautiful and peaceful gift you can give to a pet at then end of their life. Peaceful Relaxation: You pet deserves to be relaxed and peaceful the whole time which is why we give a medication to do just that. Administering it will feel just like a vaccination and distractions with treats or ear rubs is usually all it takes to remove attention from the medication. You pet will slowly become sleepy over a precious period of 10 minutes as you get to hold and soothe them the entire time.
Graceful Passing: when your pet is completely relaxed and when you are comfortable, we will administer a second medication. It literally numbs the mind and allows the pet to fall right asleep into a peaceful passing. We will explain each step during the process and be there to answer any questions. You are not alone in this nor do you have to be afraid to ask anything.
What you need to do to prepare...love on your pet!
LOVE ON YOUR PET!
Decide on a spot in your home that your pet would be most comfortable.
We bring potty pads ( just in case), as well as baskets/stretchers to help transport your pet to our vehicle after they have passed. The only help we may need is if you have a pet larger than 40 pounds, we will need help carrying the stretcher to the car.
If we are providing cremation services for you, please if possible, provide us with a spot in your driveway. Especially for larger pets, a close spot really helps us transport your pet easily.
Consider putting phones on silent and even hanging a sign on your door to alert others that now is not the time for visitors. We want you and your pet to be completely undisturbed during this time.
FAQ's: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed my pet beforehand? Yes! Just make sure you save the real savory foods (with spices, chocolate, ice cream etc) for just 1-2 hours prior to our arrival. Sometimes over indulgence can lead to diarrhea.
Can I hold my pet? Yes! Our Doctor will help you along the way with positioning so that you can cuddle with your pet if you wish, and we can get to the area we need.
Should my other pet/s be present? Yes and No: if your other pet/s are a distraction to you, we recommend putting them away during the process. However, if they are calm and you wish them to be with, then absolutely! Either way, it is always a good idea to let the other pet view your pet after they have passed. This has been shown to help with animal grieving and closure.
Should children be present? That is completely up to you as a family. We do recommend that if children will be present that you talk with them beforehand. Use words like we are going to help "Fluffy" die peacefully. Avoid words like "put to sleep" since that can induce fear in children when thinking about their own bedtimes. Please click HERE for a super helpful article on talking to children about grief and euthanasia.
Can we do this outside? Yes for dogs! As long as weather permits. We do ask if the temperature is 45 degrees and below that you refrain from doing this outside. For cats, it may be more stressful for certain cats, but it is completely up to you.
What is your COVID-19 Policy? Please know that we are monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic closely and have increased our between visits sanitation methods. We are not requiring anyone to wear masks in their homes, and are no longer routinely wearing a mask ourselves. If you would prefer we wear a mask, please let us know and we will do so.
Do you make a paw print? Yes, we use crayola air dry model magic clay to make you a complementary paw print if you would like one. Trusted Journey pet crematory (new branch of the crematory formerly known as Hinsdale pet crematory) can make a heavier fire based clay print with your pet's name printed in Vinyl on it for $30 per paw print (see below). You will need to inform us directly if you would like Trusted Journey's paw print. (Starting March 6, 2023: the baked paw print will no longer have the name stamped but will be in Vinyl on the print and can be picked up at Hinsdale's sister location Trusted Journey: 25613 US-30, Plainfield, IL 60585).
