The Final Kindness....

Many pet owners struggle with the right time for euthanasia.  Please see Dr. Garlinghouse's philosophy on the right time to euthanize in our Pet Care Information page.  While euthanasia is often referred to as putting the animal "to sleep," that metaphor is actually very close to reality.  The animal receives an overdose of the same sedative used to induce anesthesia.  Unconsciousness proceeds death and the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort.

At All Creatures Animal Hospital we strive to make this most difficult of transitions as easy as possible for all family members.  We even have children's books that explain the death of a beloved pet to the little ones.  While we encourage clients to comfort their pets through this final vet visit, we also perform unattended and drop-off euthanasias as well.

Many clients prefer to have their pets euthanized at home.  We offer home visits at an additional fee over the in-hospital procedure.  At home euthanasia is only available if the pet's condition does not require immediate attention that cannot done on an appointment basis, as in-home euthansia schedules a veterinarian and veterinary nurse to be out of the Hospital for an extended period.  Please call if you desire more details on this very special service.

Remains are disposed at the direction of the client and there are several alternatives for containing cremains.  We also have referrals available for pet cemetaries.  We understand this most difficult of times and are here to answer your questions and provide whatever comfort we may when you must say goodbye to a cherished friend.