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This is such a difficult question as a pet-parent, and I struggle with this decision for my own pets. There are so many factors that can impact quality-of-life as our pets age. Some of the many important questions to ask include:

- Are they eating, drinking, urinating, and defecating normally?

- Are they interacting normally with family and other pets?

- Are they able to enjoy their usual activities (fetch, play, walks, training)?

- Are there changes to their nighttime behaviors (waking, restlessness, pacing)?

- Are there signs of cognitive decline and anxiety (wandering, pacing, panting, staring)?

For pet-parents who think it may be time but are unsure, I will provide consultation at the time of the appointment and we can work together to decide if it is the right time to say goodbye. 

For pet-parents who do not feel it is time to say goodbye yet, but see that their pet could use recommendations and medications to provide comfort in the short-term, I recommend a hospice appointment. 

This is something that we will discuss at-length at the time of your appointment, so that everyone feels prepared. The process that we use truly does create that *fall asleep and pass in your sleep* sensation that we wish on all of our loved ones. 

To do this, I use a 2-step injection process. The first medication is given like a flu shot, so it is as low-stress and pain-free as possible. This medication creates a state of relaxation, sedation, and euphoria. I will collect a clay paw-print and lock of hair at this time, should you desire. Once your pet is "floating" and feeling an ease of whatever ails them, I administer the second medication. This second medication is typically given into the vein, and it induces a state of anesthesia before helping your pet to pass. 

If you elect to use our crematory services, your pet will come with me at the end of the appointment. I will help make this transportation smooth, but I do require assistance lifting (1 person) for any pet 40lbs and greater. 

There are some good things you can do to prepare for the appointment. First is to consider who will be in attendance - see below for guidance on children and other pets. 

I recommend that you select a location that is comfortable for your pet. This location should allow for us to gather around your pet, typically with a comfortable bed or blanket for them.  Some pet-parents like to surround this area with mementos, toys, and treats that their pet may find comforting.  

I also recommend that you take your pet to the bathroom - if able to do so without causing distress or discomfort to your pet - about 30 minutes prior to the appointment. 

If your pet is on any medications prescribed by their normal veterinarian, continue to give these as prescribed (including pain medications, seizure medications, heart medications, etc).

If your pet is still eating, I recommend thinking about an extra yummy treat that we can give to help them feel comfortable during the first "feel-good" injection. Think burgers, chocolate cupcakes, ice cream, etc. This will be such a special treat for you and your pet to share. 

I work a few days per week at local veterinary clinics, so my appointment availability is only limited by that. I also offer evening appointments, as well as weekends. 

I will make every effort to help you and your pet family during this difficult time. However, we are not an emergency service. If at any point you feel your pet cannot wait, I recommend that you contact your local veterinary hospital. 

There is no one right answer; the selection of aftercare is a personal one for the family. Some families like to perform a home burial to keep their pet close. I can help make recommendations on how to do this correctly and respectfully for your pet. 

If you prefer, I do offer cremation services through West Coast Pet Memorial in Sacramento. This is a wonderful group of compassionate and caring people. I trust them with my own pets when they cross the rainbow bridge. They offer both communal cremation - where ashes are spread in the foothills with a group of other animals - as well as private cremation - where ashes are returned to you individually in the urn of your choosing. 

If you elect for cremation, your pet will come home with me after the appointment, before being transported to the crematory. 

Whether children should be present during your pet's passing is a personal decision that depends on various factors such as the child's age and maturity, the family's preferences, and the specific circumstances. 

Some parents may choose to include children in the process to help them understand and cope with the loss, and I think using clear and correct language is the most appropriate. However, others may choose to shield them from the emotional stress and potential trauma of losing their beloved furry-friend. It is important to make a careful and informed decision with the best interests of both the children and the pet in mind. Seeking advice from a counselor or professional can be helpful in making the decision. 

Other pets are welcome to be present, as long as their presence is not disruptive to the process or to the pet that we are helping to transition. 

At the time of service, I am able to accept: cash, checks, Venmo, Google/Apple Pay, and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover). I can also accept Care Credit.