All of us pet owners must face losing a loved companion animal at some point.  As a veterinarian, a difficult but necessary part of my job is euthanizing animals whose quality of life has become poor.  While no veterinarian likes this job, it is a necessary one and I am happy to provide at-home, kind euthanasia services for pets so that they do not have to be taken to an unfamiliar or scary place for this final veterinary procedure.  I also provide at home euthanasia services for large animals.

First, I will anesthetize your pet with an intramuscular injection of a relaxant and strong sedative.  This takes several minutes to reach effect.  When the pet is completely anesthetized, I administer a drug intravenously that will stop his heart.  Once the intravenous injection is given, the heart will stop within a minute or two.  This should be a peaceful and gentle process and your pet should not struggle or experience any anxiety with the drugs given.

The cost for this procedure depends on the size of the animal, but ranges from $120-$200 for non-emergent calls.

While many people choose to bury their pets on their property (check local laws regarding this), other options include cremation and kindness composting.  The local crematory, Kingston Funeral Home, is in Northfield and can be reached at 802.485.9161 or 802.485.4981.  White Clover Farm in Milton, VT offers composting for animals of all sizes.  They can be reached at 802.782.4833 or 802.782.4159.