Frequently Asked Questions

There is no easy answer to this question. It can be very difficult to know when it is “time,” but using a quality of life scale can be a very helpful objective measurement of quality of life which can help take the emotion out of the decision. You can find quality of life questionnaires here. These should be completed on a regular basis- daily, weekly, etc, so that you can note trends in a declining quality of life score, which may be an indication that it may be near your pet’s “time.”

Upon arrival, the team will meet you and your pet, and allow time for them to become comfortable with our presence by sitting with them and offering a bowl of treats for them to enjoy if they would like. Your pet will be given an injection under the skin, in a manner that is as stress free and pain free as possible. Within 5-15 minutes, your pet will fall into a deep sleep in your comforting presence, and will then be unaware of anything happening to them going forward. Once asleep, Dr. Coates will check different locations for access to a vein (typically, this will be a back leg, but occasionally may be a front leg or other location) while you simply spend time comforting and cuddling your pet. Dr. Coates may place an IV catheter, or administer the final injection directly into the vein without a catheter, depending on location. Once given, your pet will pass peacefully in under 5 minutes. 

You may have private time with your pet after they pass, or your pet can be transported to the vehicle right away. We will ensure safe transport to the crematory company, and make aftercare arrangements on your behalf, based on your preferences. You will receive an emailed link to use for purchase of additional memorial products from the crematory, if you choose to do so.