Saying goodbye to our pets is a natural part of the ownership experience and the human-animal bond, but few of us are prepared when the time comes. Euthanasia can evoke many emotions, such as relief, sadness, uncertainty, and guilt. In-home euthanasia is an option that may help make the process easier, but you may have questions or concerns about the process or feel unsure if it’s right for your family. 

This guide will walk you through what to expect during in-home pet euthanasia with Lap of Love. Understanding the process can help alleviate your fears and concerns, allowing you to focus on what matters most—providing a peaceful passing for your beloved companion.

Understanding in-home euthanasia

In-home euthanasia is a compassionate end-of-life option similar to traditional euthanasia, except it is performed in the comfort of your pet’s familiar home or favorite place. Instead of you and your pet traveling to a local veterinary hospital, a veterinarian comes to you. 

Although the process is similar, the difference between in-home and clinic-based euthanasia is the environment. Many pets feel anxious or stressed in a clinic setting, which can be upsetting for pet owners as well. At home, pets can rest in their favorite spot, indoors or out, surrounded by family. 

Families who choose in-home euthanasia can take more time with their pet without feeling rushed. The focus is entirely on your pet and family, so you can create a final day and final memories that feel comforting and peaceful. 

Lap of Love veterinarians focus solely on providing the best possible experience during what is otherwise a stressful and sad event. They are compassionate, kind, and understanding of you and your pet’s needs and work with you to create a respectful, calm environment free of clinical distractions.

When is the right time?

Many pet owners struggle with the decision to euthanize a pet. Most pets have good and bad days, making it difficult to know if you’re making the right choice or should wait a little longer. There is no perfect answer for everyone, as each pet is unique. However, you can use your pet’s quality of life to determine if it’s time to schedule euthanasia.

Consider the following questions:

* Is your pet eating and drinking normally?

* Can they move around without pain?

* Do they still enjoy their favorite activities, such as taking walks, playing, or snuggling with you?

Because each pet is unique, a quality-of-life scale can help you examine your pet’s experience more closely. This objective tool guides you through questions that assess various key areas, including comfort, mobility, nutrition, cleanliness, and overall demeanor. When a pet’s score dips below acceptable levels because of persistent pain, difficulty breathing, or a functional decline, it may be time.

Consultation with a veterinarian who knows your pet well can help you make an informed decision about when and where to euthanize your pet. Their professional insight can help you understand your pet’s condition, the possibility of improvement, and the pain or discomfort they’re experiencing. They can also help you understand the options of in-home euthanasia and in-clinic euthanasia. The decision is personal, but it's best to make it alongside your trusted veterinarian.

Preparing for in-home euthanasia

After deciding on in-home euthanasia, you can prepare for the veterinarian’s visit to your home. Knowing what to expect can help you plan a meaningful experience and give you control over the process.

First, choose a comfortable, familiar spot where your pet feels safe and can relax, such as a favorite bed or sunny spot outside. Gather items that will bring them joy, such as a favorite blanket or toy. Calming music or background noise can help set the tone for a gentle farewell. 

Before the veterinarian arrives, talk with your family about how they’d like to participate. Some family members may want to be present during the pet euthanasia process, while others may prefer to say goodbye beforehand. Provide your pet with food or activities they enjoy, or spend quality time with them. There is no right or wrong way to spend your final moments together; it’s about what feels right for you and your loved ones. 

The in-home euthanasia process

When your Lap of Love veterinarian arrives, they will meet your pet, spend time getting to know them, and address any questions you may have. They’ll explain what will happen before, during, and after euthanasia, including any special accommodations for specific health or behavioral issues, so there are no surprises. 

When everyone is ready, the veterinarian will first administer an injectable sedative to help your pet relax. Your pet may sigh and then lie down, slowly drifting off to sleep. While the sedative takes effect, you can sit with your pet, hold them, and be a comforting presence.

After your pet is fully relaxed, the veterinarian will administer the euthanasia medication into a vein using a small IV catheter or needle and syringe. The medication causes the heart to stop beating. It is quick and painless, and your pet will not be aware—they will drift from sleep to a peaceful passing. 

You can hold your pet, stroke them, talk to them, or sit nearby throughout the process. Afterward, the veterinarian will give you the time you need to say goodbye. This is a private moment for you and your family to be together and reflect on the life and love you shared.

Aftercare and memorial

Before your pet’s peaceful passing, our Lap of Love team will help you understand the options for aftercare. Many families choose cremation, either communal (no ashes returned) or private (ashes returned to you). When you select this option, the vet will take your pet with them and handle everything on your behalf. You may also choose to keep and bury your pet at home or through a local pet cemetery.

Memorial items can help you honor your pet’s memory. A clay paw print, ink nose print, lock of fur, or custom urn or memorial stone are popular options. To continue remembering your pet each day, consider planting flowers in their honor, commissioning an art piece for your home, creating jewelry from your pet’s ashes, or filling a scrapbook with memories. There’s no right or wrong way to honor your pet’s life. Lap of Love does offer the option for a clay paw print and lock of fur at no additional cost. 

Coping with grief

Resources are available to help you navigate your grief, including pet loss support groups, grief counselors, and online communities. Everyone grieves differently, and whatever you’re feeling is valid. It’s also OK if you feel a sense of relief, especially if your pet was suffering toward the end. Be gentle with yourself and accepting of your feelings, and know that choosing euthanasia was an act of love.

You may miss the routines you shared with your pet, the sound of them moving through the home, their quirky behaviors, or the simple comfort of their presence. Permit yourself to grieve in whatever way feels right for you. Talk openly with others who have lost pets and ask for help if you need it. 

Choosing in-home euthanasia

While the pet euthanasia process is never easy, knowing what to expect from an in-home experience can help you feel more prepared and allow you to focus on your pet’s final moments. In-home euthanasia will enable you to say goodbye on your terms, without the rushed feeling of a clinic visit or the stress of an unfamiliar environment.

Choosing a gentle, in-home farewell is one of the most loving gifts you can give to your pet, and it provides a lasting, peaceful memory of your final moments together. For more information about in-home euthanasia, determining when it’s time, telehospice or hospice care services for senior pets, please contact your local Lap of Love veterinary team.