If you still have questions after reading through this page,
then please do not hesitate to contact us.
Q: How far in advance do I need to make an appointment?
A: This does tend to vary from week to week, but generally my calendar is booked 3-5 days in advance. I do have cancellations, so I can sometimes accommodate appointments needed same day/next day or can move appointments up if your baby’s condition changes.
Q: Can I cancel or reschedule my appointment?
A: My clients frequently decide to cancel or reschedule their appointments for various reasons. This can easily be done using the original, automated, confirmation email that will be sent by the scheduling software. In that email there will be a button that says “View Appointment Details.” By clicking that button you will then have the option to cancel or reschedule your appointment. If you elect to reschedule, you will be shown all of my currently open appointment slots. I do not charge a cancellation fee, but ask that you notify me 24 hrs in advance if possible so that I can offer your appointment slot to someone else that needs it.
Q: What is the best way for me to make an appointment?
A: The best way to make an appointment is through my online scheduling calendar. You will answer specific questions on the attached form to ensure that we have all the information we need about you and your baby. However, if you feel uncomfortable using the online format or have questions that need answering, then please feel free to email or call.
Q: What can I expect during the appointment?
A: When I first arrive, I will answer any questions you might have. I will then have you sign a couple of brief forms that are needed to authorize the euthanasia and the cremation (if you have requested one). When you are ready, I will give your baby a sedative under their skin. The sedative takes effect in about 8 to 10 minutes in dogs and 3 to 4 minutes in cats. Your baby will become very sleepy from the sedative. Once I think they are sleepy enough that they will not be bothered by the second injection, I will give the second IV injection. The IV injection acts rapidly. Your baby will often pass away while I am giving this injection. At this point, if you have requested that I handle a cremation, then I will step outside to give you time with your baby. When you are ready, we will place your baby in my car for their final journey. If you are handling your baby’s aftercare, then I will make a paw print (if desired) at this point and, once the print is completed, I will leave you and your family to visit.
Q: Do I need to prepare anything for the appointment?
A: There is nothing that you specifically need to prepare. I bring everything that I will need with me, including blankets and a stretcher with which to move your baby to my car if you have requested a cremation. Of course, if you would like to send a special blanket with your baby, then you are welcome to do so.
Q: Are there any food restrictions for the day of my baby’s euthanasia appointment?
A: There are no restrictions on what, when, or how much your baby can eat on the day of the appointment. Eating will not interfere with the drugs’ effectiveness. Please feel free to spoil your baby as you see fit.
Q: Should my other dog(s) be present during the appointment?
A: I recommend that other “members of the pack” be allowed to sniff their buddy after they have passed away. Whether they are present during the procedure is up to you. Sometimes, especially if they are young and rambunctious, they can be in the way or “get on your nerves” during the procedure, so keeping them in another room for the procedure is ideal. However, they can be let back into the room after your baby has passed away so that they can see that their friend is gone. I do believe this is an important part of the pack order and something that dogs understand.
Q: I miss my baby so much. How do I grieve?
A: I think it is very important to grieve for your special, furry friends. Sometimes they are as important to us as the people in our lives. They have made us smile and given us support for many years, and when they are gone, they leave a hole that is hard to fill. Don’t let people tell you, “It was just a dog!” or “It was just a cat!” Grieve as you feel is necessary. There are many books on grief and grieving that you might find helpful. Talk with sympathetic friends who have also lost beloved pets. Share stories about your baby with others. Make a shadow box with special mementos. Join a support group. But, most importantly, allow yourself to grieve for as long as you need.