When every moment counts
In-home Euthanasia and Hospice Services serving the greater Kalamazoo, MI area
About Us
Why choose in-home euthanasia?
Making an end-of-life decision for your beloved pet family member can be difficult, and the choice may be stressful and highly emotional. As veterinary professionals, we all do our best to make the in-clinic appointment as comfortable and serene as possible, but unfortunately, some aspects of these visits can not be controlled.
- Transporting pets to the veterinary hospital may be challenging, since mobility may be impaired–especially with large dogs. With in-home euthanasia, we come to you and your pet.
- Experiencing the environment of a busy veterinary hospital can be distracting and upsetting to pets and their owners. At home you have control of familiar sights, sounds and smells.
- Grieving in a public place is unpleasant for many people. With in-home euthanasia, your family is able to take comfort in one another in privacy.
Where should euthanasia take place?
Inside the home on your pet’s cozy bed, or outside, perhaps under a shade tree? Any favorite place that they chose to spend their time would be suitable. We will do our best to accommodate your request.
Who should be there?
Supportive family and friends who wish to be present, older children (if you deem appropriate), and/or other pets in the home. Loved ones who are not physically able to attend are welcome to join via Zoom or Facetime.
What can I expect?
Initially, we will have a brief phone or email consultation to establish your needs and help answer any questions and/or special requests you may have.
Upon arrival, we will go over the paperwork and take care of payment. We will greet you and your pet, and when you are ready, will administer a sedative to help your pet sleep. At this point, your pet will be free of any pain or suffering they may have been experiencing. Once your pet is sleeping deeply, we will proceed with euthanasia when you are ready. An anesthetic solution will be given slowly to gently stop the heart. This usually only takes a few moments, and we will let you know when your pet has passed. Although your pet’s eyes will remain open and you may hear a few expirations or see muscle twitching; rest assured that your pet has felt no pain and has passed peacefully. You will be able to spend private time with your pet before we make the transition to the vehicle if transportation is desired.
Hospice and Palliative Care
Veterinary palliative care is a specialized approach to providing compassionate and supportive care to pets with serious illnesses, terminal conditions, or advanced age, focusing on enhancing their quality of life and ensuring their comfort. This form of care is aimed at managing pain and discomfort, as well as addressing the emotional and psychological needs of both the pet and their caregivers.
Key aspects of veterinary palliative care include:
1. Pain Management: Palliative care prioritizes effective pain management techniques tailored to the individual pet, ensuring they are as comfortable as possible. This may involve medications, physical therapy, acupuncture, or other non-invasive interventions.
2. Compassionate and Caring Approach: Veterinary professionals provide empathetic and understanding support to both the pet and their family, offering emotional comfort during a challenging time. The focus is on providing gentle, compassionate care that respects the bond between the pet and their caregivers.
3. Home Care: Palliative care can often be administered in the pet's home environment, where they are most comfortable. Home care allows pets to remain in familiar surroundings, reducing stress and promoting a sense of security.
4. Comfort and Quality of Life: Palliative care aims to enhance the pet's overall quality of life. This includes managing symptoms, ensuring proper nutrition, and maintaining hygiene. The focus is on creating a comfortable and serene environment for the pet to thrive in, even during their final days.
5. Communication and Support: Veterinary professionals work closely with pet owners, offering clear communication and guidance. They provide emotional support to help families navigate difficult decisions, ensuring that both the pet and their caregivers are well-informed and supported throughout the process.
6. Dignified End-of-Life Care: Palliative care strives to provide pets with a dignified and peaceful end-of-life experience. This may include euthanasia when the time is right, ensuring that the pet passes away gently, without pain, and surrounded by loved ones.
In summary, veterinary palliative care embodies a compassionate and comprehensive approach, focusing on pain management, caring support, home-based comfort, gentleness, and maintaining the highest possible quality of life for the pet during their final stages of life.
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