FAQs
Q: Do I need “proof” of sickness, or my veterinarian’s permission to make a euthanasia appointment?
Q: How much advance notice do you need to schedule an appointment?
Q: How long does the typical appointment take?
Q: What do I need to do during the appointment? Do I need to be present the entire time?
Q: Why would I want to consider same-day delivery of cremated remains?
Q: Does your vehicle have identification or advertising?
Q: Are your doctors all veterinarians? Do they work at a regular clinic, too?
Q: Don’t you find this work to be depressing?
Q: Who can I talk to about my grief?
Q: How can I learn more? Are there other resources available?
Q: Do I need “proof” of sickness, or my veterinarian’s permission to make a euthanasia appointment?
No, those are not necessary. I’ve learned over time that the best person to know when it’s time to consider euthanasia is the person who loves the pet and knows more about the pet than anyone else. As a veterinarian, I can help you understand your pet’s medical condition. The euthanasia decision can have other factors, however, including your pet’s quality of life, required nursing care, and even finances. It is always your decision and I will support you when you have come to this painful and difficult decision.
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Q: How much advance notice do you need to schedule an appointment?
We have four veterinarians on staff to cover our seven-day schedule. Same-day appointments are often available, but contacting us 1-2 days ahead should ensure that you get the appointment date and time that you prefer. Some people like to schedule an appointment several weeks out, too, which is fine.
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Q: How long does the typical appointment take?
Most appointments last 45 minutes to an hour. Occasionally it takes us a little longer. We take whatever time is needed, both for the people and pet involved.
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Q: What do I need to do during the appointment? Do I need to be present the entire time?
There is really nothing that you need to do to prepare your pet or home. You can put some thought into what part of the home you would like us to be in. During the appointment, you can be a part of as much or as little as you prefer. Some clients have chosen to step out of the room during the medication injection. Most clients choose to be at their pet’s side during the procedure and find that it is peaceful and tranquil.
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Q: Why would I want to consider same-day delivery of cremated remains?
If the idea of being separated from your pet for a week or more is distressing then you may want to consider same-day delivery. Additionally, you may be uncomfortable with the thought of your pet’s cremated remains traveling through the mail. We have never had a problem with USPS Priority Mail service, but this may prompt you to consider same-day service with courier delivery.
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Q: Does your vehicle have identification or advertising?
Our vehicles are unmarked. They have areas designed to transport your pet in a dignified, respectful way. For larger pets, a stretcher may be used to carefully move the pet from your home to the vehicle.
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Q: Are your doctors all veterinarians? Do they work at a regular clinic, too?
We are all licensed veterinarians. Collectively, we have over 60 years of veterinary experience. See the "About Us" section for individual bios with work history
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Q: Don’t you find this work to be depressing?
It may surprise you to know that we find this work to be some of the most gratifying that we have ever done. We get to meet some of the most caring pet owners and beautiful pets. We hear great stories and participate in a significant and meaningful experience in the life of your pet. It is a sacred moment and we are honored to be a witness to it. We share a passion for this specialized field of veterinary medicine.
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Q: Who can I talk to about my grief?
Sometimes the feelings of grief can be very intense. The loss of a pet is comparable to other significant losses, including other loved members of the family. You don’t have to struggle on your own. There are people who are experienced in helping think through this decision and in helping you work through the grief after you have lost a pet (see below).
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Q: How can I learn more? Are there other resources available?
Call me, email me, or watch this video
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Online
Veterinary Wisdom for Pet Parents
Argus Institute at Colorado State
Phone
(612) 624-9372 - Local hotline and Companion Animal Love, Loss & Memories Group
(877) 474-3310 - National 24-hour pet loss hotline
Books
"Good Grief: Finding Peace After Pet Loss: Personal and Professional Insights on the Animal Lover's Unique Grieving Process", by Sid Korpi
"Saying Goodbye to Your Angel Animals: Finding Comfort after Losing Your Pet", by Allen and Linda Anderson
"Goodbye, Friend: Healing Wisdom For Anyone Who Has Ever Lost A Pet", by G. Kowalski
"Dog Heaven and Cat Heaven", by C. Rylant [kids]
"The 10th Good Thing About Barney", by J. Viorst [kids]