Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest moments any pet owner will face. At Vetalis, we believe this goodbye should be as calm, gentle, and personal as possible. Our home euthanasia service is designed to give you time, privacy, and control over the environment, while ensuring your pet’s comfort and dignity at every step.
This article explains, step by step, how a home euthanasia visit works, what choices you have, and what happens afterwards.
Choosing the Right Place
With Vetalis, you can choose where the euthanasia takes place:
- Inside your home, where your pet feels most safe and familiar
- In our mobile veterinary vehicle, which is quiet, private, and fully equipped
- In your pet’s special place, such as a favourite room, garden, or resting spot
There is no right or wrong choice. We will support whatever feels best for you and your pet.
When the Vet Arrives
Before the appointment, you will receive an email with a consent form that can be signed electronically at your convenience. This helps ensure everything is in place and allows the visit to remain calm and uninterrupted.
If electronic signing is not possible for any reason, the vet can bring a paper copy of the consent form to be signed during the visit.
When the vet arrives, the appointment is never rushed. The vet will:
- Greet you calmly and compassionately
- Explain the process clearly and answer any questions
- Check that you are comfortable and ready to proceed
You will always be in control. If you need a few minutes before starting, that is absolutely fine.
Step 1: Gentle Sedation
The first step is sedation. This is given as a small injection, usually under the skin or into a muscle.
- Your pet will gradually become very relaxed and sleepy
- Anxiety, pain, and awareness fade away
- Many pets simply fall into a deep, peaceful sleep
This stage is essential, as it ensures your pet feels no stress or discomfort.
Time to Say Goodbye
Once your pet is fully sedated, we pause.
- You can hold them, talk to them, or simply sit quietly
- You may take as much time as you need
- There is no pressure to continue until you are ready
If you would like more time, just let us know. This moment is for you and your pet.
Step 2: The Final Injection
When you feel ready, the vet will administer an overdose of anaesthetic.
- Your pet is already deeply asleep
- This injection allows them to pass away peacefully and painlessly
- They are not aware and do not feel anything
The passing is usually very calm and occurs within a short time.
The vet will then gently check and confirm that your pet has passed.
Aftercare and Spending Time Afterwards
After your pet has passed, you may:
- Spend time with them
- Say a final goodbye
- Sit quietly in private
Again, there is no rush. We will only proceed when you tell us you are ready.
Aftercare Options Explained
Before the visit, or at the time of the appointment, you can choose one of the following aftercare options:
1. Home Burial
You may choose to keep your pet at home for burial.
- This option is available where local council regulations allow
- The vet can advise on practical and legal considerations
- Your pet remains with you
2. Routine (Communal) Cremation
- Your pet will be cremated alongside other beloved pets, with care and respect
- Ashes are not returned
- This option is often chosen by families who do not wish to keep ashes but want a dignified and gentle aftercare choice
This differs from individual cremation, where your pet is cremated on their own and their ashes are returned to you.
3. Individual Cremation
- Your pet is cremated individually
- Their ashes are returned to you
- You may choose an urn or keepsake if you wish
We will explain each option carefully and support whatever decision feels right for you.
Our Promise to You
At Vetalis, home euthanasia is:
- Calm and unhurried
- Focused on your pet’s comfort
- Respectful of your wishes and emotions
We understand how difficult this time is, and we are honoured to support you through it.
If you have questions, need advice, or would like to talk things through before making a decision, please do not hesitate to contact us.
You and your pet will never be rushed, and you will never be alone.