There is no easy time or way to say goodbye to your loved ones.
For existing clients, please call our clinic to discuss scheduling. We are often able to accommodate requests even on short notice. If we have not seen this pet before, an examination is required due to legal guidelines. 

We will do our best to accommodate euthanasia requests for new clients as well, however our capacity to provide services varies. Please call our clinic to discuss.

How do I know when the time is right to choose humane euthanasia for my pet?
 Making decisions regarding euthanasia for a beloved pet may be one of the most difficult decisions you will face, and at Nelson Animal Hospital, we understand that it is never an easy choice and we are here to support you.   There is no right or wrong time to make the decision, and all decisions about euthanasia for your pet are yours to make. If you are unsure if it is the right time, we can discuss how to assess their quality of life to help decide how to best move forward for you and your pet. 

What can I expect during the euthanasia appointment?
At the clinic, we have a room that we will make comfortable for yourself, your family, and your pet. If you have plans to take your pet home, we can help your animal pass peacefully and comfortably in your car if that is easier for you.
 
When it is time, depending on your pet’s condition, the vet will administer the sedation/pain medication intramuscular or subcutaneous which means under the skin. This will help them feel very comfortable and relaxed. Once your pet is deeply sedated, the veterinarian and technician will place a catheter into their vein. Once the catheter is placed, all medications will be given through the catheter. A second sedative agent is sometimes given if they are not fully sedated, to allow your pet to fall fully asleep, and then the Euthanasia solution will be administered. The euthanasia solution is a highly potent anesthetic agent at a very high dose, and will gently allow your pet to pass away.

Can my dog be euthanized at home?
You may wish to have your animal pass away where they feel more at peace at home. Contact Maybank Veterinary Services at ---

Can I hold my pet during the euthanasia?
You may of course hold your pet to give them comfort. The veterinarian will help find a comfortable position for you and your pet that will allow the vet to proceed with the procedure safely for all. 

​Do I need to be present for my pet's euthanasia?
Being present is a personal choice, and no matter what you decide, we understand, and we will support you and your pet with whatever you feel most comfortable with. 

Is euthanasia painful?
Euthanasia is not painful. The word itself comes from the Greek, and means “good death”.  The fact that euthanasia is so commonly called “being put to sleep” is a testament to the procedure being painless and smooth like falling asleep. At the beginning of the euthanasia visit your pet will receive a sedative via injection with a small needle. Once your pet is comfortable and relaxed, we will place an intravenous catheter, and administer a final drug which will allow your pet to pass peacefully.

What can I expect to see as my pet passes away?
Most pets pass away so peacefully that it may not be noticed that they have passed. In some cases, you may see their last breath or hear a sigh or a noise, and the natural reflexes of the body as they settle after they have passed. Occasionally as your pet’s body fully rests they may release their bowels and bladder, which is normal.  Your vet will listen to confirm their heart is no longer beating and confirm that they have passed. 

What happens to my pet’s body afterwards?
There are several options for aftercare following the euthanasia of your pet. We will go through these with you prior to the euthanasia, and explain costs and service. For further detail, please see our After Care and Memorialization page.