FAQ's ~ Mobile Veterinary Euthanasia Services

This is the most common question we get and also the most difficult to answer as there are many factors that influence this decision.  In summary, when your pet is suffering or struggling, euthanasia is a merciful choice and one made out of compassion and love.

We may never find the “right” time to let our pets go, but we can consider when the “best” time would be.

We don’t want to wait too late and put our pets through unnecessary suffering.  Our hope is that through providing mobile veterinary care in the pet's own home, we take away some of the fear and anxiety for your beloved pet.

Click the link below to help assess your pet’s quality of life and pain level.

As this is already a difficult time for you and your family, knowing what to expect when we visit your home can help ease the stress and anxiety

• The veterinarians will arrive at the scheduled time of appointment.  Any paperwork signing and payment will be addressed first so as to not interfere with your alone time with your pet
• Your pet will first receive an injection in the muscle or under the skin that will offer pain control and heavy sedation – this will take around 10-15 minutes before your pet is sedated
• Once you and your pet are ready, the veterinarian will administer the euthanasia medication which is an overdose of an anesthetic that will slow, then stop the heart
• Depending on your pet’s size and condition, this medication will be delivered either by a vein in the leg or by a vein in the abdomen​
• Your pet will pass away peacefully within minutes
• The veterinarian will confirm that the heart has stopped and you can take as much time with your pet as you need
• If you choose cremation, the veterinarian will gently prepare your pet’s body for transport
• ​Special arrangements with the crematory may be made for transportation of overly large or giant breed dogs

 The entire appointment can last anywhere from 30-60 minutes. 

We recommend that other pets in the household see the pet that has passed away, especially if they seemed to have a close relationship.  The only time it may not be advisable for the other pet(s) to be in the room during the procedure is if they are the kind of pet that would be disruptive, but most will settle down after the initial excitement of having a new person come into their home abates. 

This is best decided as a family.

Children express grief differently than adults and their response to grief can vary based on their age and level of understanding of death and loss.

Be open and honest with your children about your pet’s illness and death and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible.

If children do not wish to be present for the euthanasia, perhaps they could read a poem or share pictures or stories of their pet beforehand.

They may wish to view the pet’s body afterward for closure and a final goodbye.

Perhaps involve your children in memorializing your pet – this can include anything from making a shadow box to holding a celebration of life service.

We highly recommend the services provided by Faithful Companion (based in Twinsburg).  They offer both private and common cremation and are outstanding in their care for beloved pets.   We  will transport to the pet crematorium immediately following our appointment.

True emergent needs are best met at appropriate facilities prepared for such emergency medical care.  Two excellent resources closest to our service area: 

• Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital
•      1053 S Cleveland Massillon Rd, Copley, OH 44321 
•      330-666-2976

Or

• MedVet  
•        1321 Centerview Circle, Copley, OH 44321  
•        330-665-4996

Do call ahead so that you can be appropriately triaged upon arrival.  And request an anesthetic injection first before pet ever leaves your side - this will minimize distress for all in such a difficult time.