How do I know when it’s time?

The decision of when to say goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest ones we ever have to make. Having been through it, myself, I understand how seemingly impossible this decision is. Below are links to some quality-of-life scales that may help in the decision making process. 

I recommend making a list of 4 or 5 things that make your pet who he or she is. Does he/she love playing with a favorite ball? Enjoy sleeping in your bed with you? Always greet visitors at the door with a friendly wag? Never miss a meal? As your pet stops doing these things and you can cross more of them off of your list, it is likely close to time to say goodbye. 

Some questions to ponder: 

In general, is your pet having more “bad” days or “good” days? Are they having any trouble breathing? Are they able to urinate/defecate on their own? Are they soiling themselves? How is their appetite and water intake? Can they rise/move around without significant pain? Have their interactions with you or other family members (including other pets) changed? Are they hiding more or sleeping in odd places? Do they seem more irritable? 

Please know that it is ok to choose to euthanize your pet when they are having a “good” day. I believe it is better to let them pass peacefully an hour, a day, even a week “early” rather than ever feeling like you waited a moment too late. 

It is also important to consider how your pet’s condition is affecting you and your bond with him/her. I understand the burden of care can be profound (emotionally, physically, and financially) and it is important to consider your quality-of-life as well. 

Quality-of-life scales that I find helpful: 

JOURNEYS quality-of-life scale (Dr. Katie Hilst) | OSU quality-of-life scale

How far in advance should I schedule my appointment?

It is best to schedule your appointment at least 1-3 days in advance. However, I understand this is not always possible and sometimes same-day help is needed.

If this is the case, I will do my best to accommodate you and your pet’s needs. If I am unable to come to your home when you need help, I am happy to provide you with contact information for other vets/companies who may be able to help.

Please be aware that I do not provide emergency services.

What should I expect during the appointment?

I will text you when I am on my way to your home. When I arrive, I will introduce myself to your family and greet your pet. Please have a place in mind that you’d like the euthanasia process to take place. This may be on your pet’s favorite bed, on the couch holding your pet in your arms, or outside in the sunshine. I will then thoroughly explain the euthanasia process and answer any questions you may have. Please don’t hesitate to speak up if you have any concerns or fears that I can address.

When you and your family are ready, I will administer a sedative medicine to your pet to help him/her relax and fall comfortably deep asleep. If your pet is still eating, it may help to have a favorite snack or treat ready to distract your pet while I give the injection.

After several minutes, I will check your pet’s muscle tone and reflexes to ensure he/she is not feeling any pain or anxiety. Once your pet is ready and you give me permission to proceed, I will administer the euthanasia medicine that will quickly and peacefully cause death. I will then listen to your pet’s chest with my stethoscope to ensure I no longer hear a heartbeat. After I’ve confirmed that your pet has passed, I will ask if you’d like some time alone to say your final goodbyes.

At this point I will make an impression of your pet’s paw print and obtain a clipping of his/her fur, if desired. I will then prepare your pet’s body for transport if cremation services are requested.

How long does the appointment take?

On average, I spend about 45 minutes to 1 hour with each family, with some appointments taking more time and some taking less. Please know that there is absolutely no rush during our time together. As long as your pet is comfortable, I am happy to give you all the time you need with him/her.

Alternatively, I understand if you’d prefer to keep things moving along during our visit. I will check in with you throughout the process to see what feels right in the moment. 

Who should be present during the appointment?

There is no right answer regarding who should be present. You may want your pet’s goodbye to be a more intimate experience with just yourself or immediate family present. On the other hand, there is no limit to the number of people who can be there, as long as your pet is comfortable. Our pets touch many lives, and sometimes many people who want to be with us to say goodbye. 

Many people wonder whether their children should be present for the euthanasia of a family pet. This is a very individual decision depending on the age, maturity level, and personality of your child. If children are present, I will do my best to explain the process in an age-appropriate, simple, comforting manner. Please see the Pet Loss Support section for resources that may help your child understand and grieve the loss of a pet. 

If you have other pets, they can be with us as long as your pet is comfortable with their presence. Animals often share special bonds with one another, and I think other pets pet should have the chance to say goodbye to their companions. If other pets are highly excitable and could pose a distraction to you or your pet during the process, it may be best to keep them in another area of the home at first. They are welcome to come out to say goodbye and to gain clarity after your pet is at peace. 

How will my pet’s body be transported for cremation?

I will give you as much private time as you need with your pet before I take his or her body with me for cremation. When you are ready, I will secure your pet for transport. Cats and small dogs will be wrapped in a soft blanket and placed in a basket. Medium and large dogs will be covered with a soft blanket and placed on a stretcher to be carried to my car.

I will then bring your pet to my home, where they will safely remain until Bubbling Well comes to pick them up for cremation.

If your pet is over 30lb, I ask that you please have someone available to help me carry him or her to my car.

What if my pet is fearful or aggressive?

Please let me know if you have any concerns about your pet’s behavior around strangers or vets. Your primary vet may be able to prescribe a sedative or anti-anxiety medicine for you to give prior to my arrival. We can often come up with a plan ahead of time to make things as smooth and comfortable as possible for your pet. However, please understand that there are some cases where I may not be able to help for the safety of everyone involved, including your pet.

What is your cancellation policy?

I understand that saying goodbye to your beloved pet is an extremely difficult decision and that the last part of a pet’s life can be unpredictable. For these reasons, I do not have a cancellation fee. However, I ask that you please give me as much notice as possible if you need to cancel so that I can use your appointment time to help another family in need.

If I arrive to your home and, for whatever reason, we decide together not to go forward with euthanizing your pet, there will be a $275 quality-of-life consultation fee.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept Zelle (amyolsendvm@gmail.com), Venmo (@alifewellloved), checks, cash, and major credit cards. I am unable to accept Care Credit.

Payment is due at the time of service.