How will I know it is time?

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When your pet:

• Cannot enjoy the daily experiences

• Cannot respond to you in its usual way

• Experiences more pain than pleasure
   

Your veterinarian cannot make the decision to euthanase for you. But they can help you understand your pet’s condition, chances of
recovery, potential outcomes, long term prognoses, and the risks involved with medical and surgical options. It is important that you ask
as many questions as you can to help you understand your pet’s condition and discuss the facts with your vet, family, and friends before
making the decision.
 

How can I say goodbye?

Saying goodbye is an important step in the grieving process. You may choose to do this as a family unit or individually. You may also choose
to be with the pet for the procedure or choose not to be. It is important you choose what is comfortable for you and not to feel pressured in
your decision.
 

What happens during the procedure?

Euthanasia is accomplished by the delivery of a euthanasia drug into the leg vein. It induces a deep and irreversible unconsciousness and ultimately a quick and painless death.

Occasionally, your pet may be given a sedative to help relax them prior to the procedure.
 

How to manage the loss?

Managing grief is a natural and individual process. It is the process of accepting the loss and the pain associated with it (denial, sadness, anger, anxiety, numbness, guilt) and adjusting to life without your pet. 

You may wish to spend time with the pet after euthanasia or you may wish to surround yourself with friends and family.

If you ever feel profound and prolonged depression, always seek assistance from a professional counselor, a social worker, or psychologist.

Lifeline offers 24/7 support via online chat or phone (13 11 14).

Other resources:

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/coping-with-losing-a-pet.htm

https://griefline.org.au/resources/losing-a-pet/

https://petsandpeople.com.au/pet-loss-counsellors/
 

What happens to my pet’s body?

There are many options for your pet’s final resting place:

1. Home burial - please ensure you comply with the local council legislation.

2. Individual cremation – we can organise individual cremation through Newcastle & Hunter Pet Crematorium. They offer a basic casket/scatter box, wooden casket, deluxe photo box, pottery urn, brass urn. They also have jewellery and other memorials online (https://newcastleandhunterpetcrematorium.com/)

3. Standard disposal – if you do not wish to have the remains returned, we can arrange group burial/cremation.

You can choose to keep your pet’s collar and can request to receive an ink paw print of your pet. 

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In-home euthanasia.

Being able to offer your beloved pet a peaceful and loving goodbye is something we truly value and are honoured to support. Saying farewell is never easy, but for many families, being able to do so in the comfort and privacy of their own home can bring a sense of calm during an otherwise difficult time.

Our in-home euthanasia service allows your pet to remain in a familiar environment, surrounded by the people and things they love most. There are no bright lights, unfamiliar smells, or stressful car rides, just a quiet space where they can rest peacefully.

When you choose this option, one of our compassionate veterinarians will arrive at your door, ready to guide you through each step of the process with sensitivity, empathy, and care. We will take the time to ensure your pet is comfortable and pain-free, and that you feel supported and informed throughout the visit.

It is our goal to help make this emotional time as gentle as possible, for both you and your cherished companion.

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