Frequently Asked Questions

Why euthanasia at home?

Saying goodbye to your pet at home allows the family to be together in privacy and comfort at a sensitive time. Home is where most pets are most comfortable. Your pet can peacefully fall asleep in their favorite bed or place in the yard, surrounded by their family.

How do I know if it’s the right time to euthanize my pet?

Sometimes it is very clear that a cat or dog is suffering. Other times it can be more difficult to know if it is too soon. Every one of us is different, and so are our canine and feline companions. Animals often do not vocalize even though they are struggling or suffering. Many indicators have more to do with withdrawing, not doing or being able to do what usually brings them joy. It is not uncommon for owners to struggle with this decision. Please feel free to call me with questions about this.

Is home euthanasia painful for my pet? What will they experience?

In their own environments, pets are less stressed and more comfortable. When I arrive, they can stay in their bed or other favorite spot. I will give an injection of sedative under the skin or in a muscle. Most pets do not react to this injection. The sedative is a mixture of pain control and anesthesia. The sedative takes effect within 5–15 minutes, resulting in loss of consciousness. The other injection I give will be after your pet is completely asleep. It is an overdose of anesthesia, and is not painful. Your pet will experience falling asleep from the sedative, and will not be aware of the second injection.

What should I expect? How does it work?

With your initial call, we can discuss any concerns you may have about whether this is the right time to help your pet transition. Sometimes pet parents need help for their pet the same day as the initial call, and I do my best to accommodate this. Once we have scheduled an appointment, I will arrive, and if there are any remaining questions we can discuss them. When you are ready, I will give your pet an injection of calming sedative and pain control. With the sedative, your pet can gently fall asleep in their favorite spot. Once your pet is fully asleep, I will then give the painless injection of euthanasia solution. I can then arrange for cremation of your pet, or you may keep your pet’s remains. See Services and Cremation for more information.

Will you take my pet with you for cremation afterwards? What are my aftercare options?

Yes, I can arrange to have your pet cremated. If you decide to have your pet cremated, I will take your pet with me. If you decide you would like your pet’s ashes returned to you, we can either mail them to you or bring them to you personally. You may also choose to have your pet’s ashes scattered by the cremation service. See Cremation for more information. You may also bury your pet, depending on local regulations.

Can I bury my pet?

Some pet parents do elect to bury their pets. Check with your city or county regarding rules for your area.

What areas do you travel to?

The main areas I service are the South Bay Area and Santa Cruz areas. Please see my Service Area Map for more information. I can sometimes travel to areas further away; please ask if this is something you need.

Are there resources to help me with my grief over the loss of my loved pet?

Yes. There are many forms of support available, including books, websites, and support groups in the area. I have included some of them here.

Are you a regular vet?

Yes, I am a veterinarian. I have over twenty years of experience providing care to dogs and cats, many of them as a “regular” general practitioner in a veterinary hospital. Since 2012, I have been providing veterinary care at home, including euthanasia services.

What does it cost?

The fee for euthanasia is $475, which includes the house call, consultation, sedative, and euthanasia medication administration. The fee for cremation ranges from $125–$475.

For more detailed information on urn choices and cremation pricing, please click here.

What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, checks, major credit cards, Zelle and Venmo as forms of payment.