The Loss Of A Pet
All of us at SCVS love animals and we’ve all experienced the pain of losing a beloved animal family member. Grieving over the loss of a pet is normal. We all deal with grief in different ways on many different levels. For some, it is important to memorialize a pet. Communicating with others going through the same grief helps some. Others benefit from counseling. What’s vital is to recognize what you and your family need during this time. Many resources exist for better understanding grief over the loss of an animal family member. Even so, never hesitate to let us know how we can help.

Argus Institute
ACVIM Grief & Loss
Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine
Children and Pet Loss

FAQs

How is euthanasia performed?
Euthanasia is performed with a quick and painless injection of an anesthetic medication into the vein. It is typically very peaceful. On rare occasions, reflex vocalization or movement occurs as an animal passes, but it’s no indication of pain.

Do you perform euthanasia at home?
We do not perform home-euthanasia services. House call veterinarians in the area do, however, and we’ll be happy to help any way we can.

Can I be present for the euthanasia of my pet?
You are welcome to be present. If you’d rather not be present, you don’t have to.

Can I visit my pet before or after the euthanasia?
We want you to spend whatever time you need before or after the euthanasia. If you have specific needs or concerns, please let us know.

What are the options after euthanasia?
You can bury your pet at home, or we can help arrange private cremation or cemetery burial through Midlands Pet Care. If you don’t want the remains, we can help make other arrangements. We can also collect hair clippings and make a clay paw print to memorialize your beloved family member.