Saying goodbye
The decision to euthanize a beloved pet is among the most difficult choices a pet owner ever has to make. We offer in-clinic euthanasia services, cremation services (through a local company) and we also offer at home euthanasia as an option for our clients.
Below is a guide on what to expect during your pets euthanasia.
Scheduling
You may contact us either over the phone, through our website, or via email (info@arrowleafveterinary.com). We understand that most of the time, this decision cannot be planned in advance, so if you need this service the same day you call, we can often accommodate that, but there may be more waiting involved, because we will be adding you into a full appointment day.
children
Your pet’s whole family is welcome during this procedure, however, there are some considerations around children. Death is a heavy concept, and it can influence some children’s view of not only the veterinarian but also the finality of life. Additionally, with your children present, you still need to parent. That can make grieving particularly difficult. It is up to you to decide how much of your pet’s family you want present for this procedure and how well your child will cope with these concepts.
payment
We always settle up all the payment before the euthanasia takes place. That way you are free to grieve without having to worry about payment.
the procedure
We have a special room that is a bit more comfortable than a standard exam room, where the procedure will take place. We will start by accompanying your pet to the treatment area where they will have an IV line placed (more on this below), then they will return to you. That process usually takes about 5-15 minutes. After that, we start by giving them an injection of a heavy sedative. That will be followed by an overdose of anesthesia, which will cause their heart and brain to stop. This second injection usually takes anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Sometimes they might take some deep breaths or have some muscle twitching, and that is normal. Sometimes this doesn’t happen, and that is also normal. At this point, you are welcome to spend as much time as you need with them.
You may elect to be with them or not during the procedure. Or, you may be present for part of the procedure. For some people this means leaving when the IV line is placed, or after the sedative is given. There is no judgement on our part, and we will care for your animal as they pass.
The IV line is placed to have direct access to their vein for smooth passing. The volume of anesthesia that is given is usually higher than typical injections, so having the IV line helps with administration of the medication. Additionally, the IV line means they can be in your arms, on your lap, on the floor, on the table, wherever they and you are most comfortable. If dogs or cats are dehydrated, that can make getting the IV line placed impossible, and in those cases, we will discuss a change of course with you.
Aftercare
Even though this comes after saying goodbye, it’s best to plan this out ahead of time. The options for aftercare are to bury your pet at home or have them cremated. If you elect to take them home for burial, we have a cardboard coffin we can put them in for transport. Sometimes they might lose their bowels or bladder on the ride, so being prepared for that is ideal. The regulations in Hood River require any animal euthanized via injectable means to be buried 6 feet deep. The soil is quite rocky in town. It is important to know if a hole this deep is possible for the size of your pet.
If you would like them cremated, we offer cremation either with return of their ashes or not. That part is up to you. We are happy to get you prices for both, which are based on the weight of your pet. If you elect either cremation option, we are happy to make a paw and/or nose print with ink on cardstock for you to keep.