Saying Goodbye

Understanding Your Pet's End-of-Life Care

Losing a beloved pet is one of the hardest experiences a pet owner can face. At such a sensitive time, it's important to know that your furry friend is being treated with the utmost respect and care. While all veterinary practices aim to provide compassionate service, the specific options available can vary. Let's explore the differences in how end-of-life care and cremation services are handled, so you can make an informed decision that brings you comfort.

What Happens at a Traditional Vet Practice?

When a pet is euthanised at a standard veterinary practice, the process typically involves a team of dedicated professionals, including nurses, reception staff, and administrators, all focused on your pet’s well-being. However, what happens after the procedure may not always be fully transparent. Generally, after your pet has passed away, their body may be stored for a period of time, sometimes up to a week. In some cases, pets are deep-frozen and placed in a bag before being collected, often on a weekly basis, by a pet crematorium. It’s also worth noting that these crematoriums are sometimes owned by the same corporate entity as the vet practice itself.

A More Personal Approach: VetCare@Home and VetCare@Peace

At VetCare@Peace and VetCare@Home, we understand the need for a more personalised and gentle approach to end-of-life care. We strive to provide a peaceful and comforting experience for both you and your pet.

At-Home Euthanasia: A Gentle Farewell

If you choose to have your pet euthanised at home, we begin with a relaxing sedative to ensure they are calm and comfortable. Your pet can continue to eat and drink throughout this process, and as many family members as you wish can be present. We understand that time is precious, so there are no time constraints. We will work entirely at your pace.

Once the sedative has taken effect and you are ready, we will gently administer the final anaesthetic – ensuring a painless and peaceful passing.

Aftercare with Dignity

After your pet has passed, you can spend as much time with them as you need. When you are ready, we can transport them to the crematorium, or you are welcome to bring them yourself.

At the crematorium, we use refrigerated storage rather than traditional freezing, and we strive to cremate your pet on the same day. You are welcome to stay and attend the cremation if you wish, or we can arrange for cremation on another day without your presence.

Remembrance and Support

We understand that saying goodbye is incredibly difficult. We offer a one-of-it’s-kind remembrance room for those who wish to hold a ceremony, and we are happy to organise this for you. We work with a local celebrant who can spend time getting to know your pet’s story, creating a personal and meaningful service.

Furthermore, we offer access to pet loss counsellors, providing additional support during this challenging time.

Memorial Options: Keeping Your Pet Close

After your pet is individually cremated, their ashes can be returned in a variety of caskets, urns, or scatter tubes, depending on your preference. There is also a growing range of memorial jewellery available, allowing you to keep your pet close to your heart. These pieces can incorporate ashes or hair in a variety of colours and finishes. Even your pet’s bed can be transformed into a memorial bear.