Saying Goodbye to Your Pet
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult decisions you'll ever face as a pet owner. At TKVets, we understand the deep bond you share with your companion, and we're here to support you with compassion, sensitivity, and respect during this heartbreaking time.
We provide peaceful, dignified end-of-life care in a calm, unhurried environment. Our priority is ensuring your pet's comfort and giving you the time and space you need to say goodbye.
When to Consider End-of-Life Care
Quality of life is the key consideration. You may want to discuss end-of-life care if your pet:
- Is in unmanageable pain despite medication
- Has lost interest in food and water
- Can no longer stand or walk comfortably
- Has more bad days than good days
- No longer enjoys activities they once loved
- Has a terminal illness with no prospect of improvement
- Shows signs of distress, confusion, or suffering
We're here to help you assess your pet's quality of life honestly and compassionately. There's no perfect moment, but we'll support you in making the decision that's right for your pet and your family.
What to Expect
- Unhurried Consultation: We take time to discuss your pet's condition, answer questions, and support your decision
- Comfortable Environment: A quiet, peaceful room where you can spend time with your pet
- Sedation First: We give a sedative injection so your pet becomes deeply relaxed and sleepy
- Peaceful Passing: Once fully sedated, we give a final injection that gently stops the heart
- No Pain or Distress: The process is painless and peaceful—your pet simply drifts into sleep
- Time to Say Goodbye: You can spend as much time as you need with your pet before and after
- Support for All Family: Children and other family members are welcome if you wish
Your Options
Staying With Your Pet
Most owners choose to stay with their pet during the process, and we encourage this if you feel able. Your presence can be comforting to your pet. However, if you prefer to say goodbye beforehand, that's absolutely okay too—there's no right or wrong choice.
Aftercare Options
We offer several options for aftercare:
- Individual Cremation: Your pet is cremated individually, and ashes are returned to you in a casket
- Communal Cremation: Your pet is cremated with other pets, and ashes are scattered in a designated area
- Home Burial: You may take your pet home for burial (subject to local regulations)
Supporting You Through Grief
Losing a pet is a genuine bereavement, and it's normal to experience profound grief. We understand this, and we're here to support you:
- Take as much time as you need in our clinic
- We can provide information about pet bereavement support
- Follow-up calls to check on how you're coping
- A sympathy card sent to your home
- Understanding that everyone grieves differently
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when it's the right time?
This is one of the hardest decisions pet owners face. We can help you assess your pet's quality of life, considering pain levels, mobility, appetite, and ability to enjoy daily activities. Ask yourself if your pet has more good days than bad, and whether they still experience joy. There's no perfect answer, but we'll support you in making the decision that's right for your pet.
What happens during euthanasia?
We first give a sedative injection to help your pet relax and fall into a deep, peaceful sleep. Once they're fully sedated and unaware, we give a final injection that gently stops the heart. The process is quick, painless, and peaceful. Your pet simply drifts from sleep into passing.
Can I stay with my pet?
Yes, most owners choose to stay with their pet, and we encourage this if you feel able to. Your presence can be comforting. However, some people prefer to say goodbye beforehand and leave before the procedure, and that's absolutely okay too. We'll support whatever feels right for you and your family.
Will my pet know what's happening?
No. The sedative makes your pet deeply relaxed and sleepy—they won't experience fear or distress. By the time we give the final injection, they're already in a peaceful, sleep-like state and completely unaware.
Can I bring my other pets?
This is a personal decision. Some owners find it helpful for other pets to see their companion has passed, as it may help them understand. However, it's not necessary. We can discuss what might work best for your situation.
How do I cope with the grief?
Grief after losing a pet is real and valid. Allow yourself to grieve, talk about your feelings, and remember that there's no timeline for healing. We can provide information about pet bereavement support services if you need additional help during this difficult time.