End of Life Care

Remembering the years of love and care given to our pets and the lifetime of companionship and devotion returned, we cherish their memories long after their lives have ended. Our pets not only deserve, but it is proper that we give some forethought to their final arrangements.

Overview

Euthanasia is commonly referred to as “putting down” or “putting to sleep”. This is a very hard decision many pet owners must make at the last stage of their pet’s life.

Why euthanasia?

Just as we all age, so do our beloved pets. As much as we would love for all of our pets to be in our lives forever, there comes a time to say goodbye. Euthanasia offers a peaceful, controlled option for the end of our pet’s life. Based on your pet’s quality of life, euthanasia may be something to consider.

When is the time right?

Knowing when the time is right can be a difficult choice. There are many factors that go into deciding to euthanize an animal, and it is a personal issue that differs from pet owner to pet owner. Your top concern should be about your pet’s quality of life, difficulties that come with old age, and the pain they may be suffering.

What should I expect?

Our euthanasia process is designed to be as peaceful as possible. Once you and the doctor have determined that this is the best choice, your pet will have a drug administered that results in deep sedation. During the time it takes to reach this state, you and your family remain with your pet. It is a quiet few minutes of saying goodbye. Many people choose to leave at this point, having bid their pet farewell, taking comfort in knowing it was calm and pain-free.

How should I get more information or ask for help?

Our veterinarians are available to discuss your options. We are very familiar with the experience and are able to talk about the process and the feelings that come with it. Please make an appointment or contact us for information on options, timelines, and references for support through the grieving process.

What if I’d like to do this at my home?

We are only able to provide euthanasia services here at our hospital with our team, however we absolutely understand if you would like to have your pet at home for this final act of love. If you are interested in learning more about In Home Euthanasia or Hospice care for your furbaby we would recommend you call the wonderful team at Lap Of Love at 317-975-1950 to discuss your needs.

Please click here for the full list of resources provided by the team at Lap of Love.

What happens afterwards?

After your pet has passed we can provide cremation or aquamation services. You have the option of a private or communal cremation for your fur-baby. Should you choose a communal cremation, your pet’s ashes are laid to rest around a private garden on the grounds of Pet Rest in Ossian, Indiana. Each garden is marked with an annual marker, so you can visit the grounds where your pet rests if you like. We encourage you to visit their website to take a tour of their gardens, if you wish. We can also arrange for the individual cremation of your pet at Pet Rest. Your pet’s ashes will be returned in a Rosewood urn, and you have the option of a clay paw print, or a clay nose print as well. To help achieve closure with the loss of your beloved pet, we will return your pet to you within 3-7 business days.

Additional Information for You

There are many different ways to memorialize your pet and house their ashes, if you wish. There are a number of wonderful options available from Pet Rest for your fur baby, featuring everything from indoor urns, urns that can be placed in your garden or your pet’s favorite lounging spot outside, as well as jewelry and keepsake options too. Feel free to look over the items available in their online catalog. If there is something you like, please let us know and we will take care of all the details.

Rose Pet Memorial Center in Indianapolis is a unique and wonderful place to help pet owners and their families mourn, memorialize and celebrate the life of their pet. They are capable of providing almost anything a grieving pet owner may want, including grief counseling, books, art, etc. Additionally, they offer support group meetings on a monthly basis. Please ask any of our client service associates for more details, a brochure, or a catalog, or click here.

For any additional information or if you would like to discuss other options for your fur-baby, please call us at 317-228-0645.

Here is a list of grief resources you may find helpful:

Please click here for the full list of resources provided by the team at Lap of Love.

The veterinary team at Michigan Road Animal Hospital 96th Street is here to answer any questions you may have as you go through this process. The decision to say good bye to your pet isn’t something you have to do on your own – we are here for you.