What To Expect With In-Home Euthanasia

We know saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult decisions you may ever face. Our goal at Pathway Veterinary Services is to provide a peaceful and respectful experience in the comfort of your home.

Preparing for Your Appointment

At Pathway Veterinary Services, we understand that saying goodbye to a beloved companion is one of the most emotional parts of your journey together. Once you complete the appointment request form, we will reach out within 48 hours to gently guide you through scheduling. There is an End-of-Life Planner on our Resources page if you wish to use it.

As you prepare for this sacred time, here are a few considerations that may help make this journey peaceful and meaningful as possible:

Who would like to be present? (e.g., family, close friends, or even other beloved pets)
Will time away from work or childcare need to be arranged? Planning ahead can create space for a more intentional goodbye.
Where would you like to gather? (Indoors or outdoors, depending on what feels most comforting for your pet and your family)
What would help your pet feel safe and loved? (e.g., familiar blankets, favorite treats, or a calming sedative beforehand)
How would you like to honor your pet's memory through aftercare? (e.g., cremation, paw prints, fur clippings, keepsakes)

Once your appointment is confirmed with Pathway Veterinary Services, we invite you to share any questions, special requests, or ways we can support your family during this tender time.

On the Day of Your Appointment

Please allow for a 30-minute window around your scheduled appointment time for Dr. Lewis to arrive.

We will take time to gently introduce ourselves to all present—human and animal alike—finalize any paperwork, collect any remaining payments and answer your questions. We will explain each step of the process, ensuring your comfort and understanding throughout. Time in your home typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour.

The Journey of Saying Goodbye

Once your pet feels safe and at ease, we will start the process of saying good-bye.

Many families find comfort in offering loving words, favorite treats, or quiet cuddles during this phase.

A brief consultation to answer any final questions and ensure you and your pet are comfortable
A sedative (anesthetic) is administered to help your pet fall into a peaceful, deep sleep. This is given with a small needle in a way that tries to minimize discomfort. Within 15 minutes, your pet will be resting deeply, free from anxiety or pain.
- Please note: On rare occasions, this injection may cause a brief burning or stinging sensation. Most pets tolerate it very well and relax after the injection is administered.
- Please note: Some pets may become nauseous from the anesthetic, if this happens and your pet vomits, we will have towels to clean up.
- Please note: Often times, pets will yawn, lick, snore, and not fully close eyes, this is normal from the anesthetic.
Once your pet is fully asleep and no longer aware of their surroundings, the final medication is given to allow for a painless passing
The final injection is typically given into a leg vein. However, for some very ill, dehydrated, or frail pets, the medication may be administered into a large vessel in the abdomen or chest. These decisions are made with your pet’s comfort as the top priority. This step is typically quick and painless.
We will confirm passing by using a stethoscope to listen for a heartbeat.

It is entirely your personal choice whether you wish to be present for just the initial sedation, or for both the sedation and the final injection. We encourage you to do what feels right for you, and we’ll support your decision with compassion and care.

Honoring the Bond and Next Steps

Afterward, any memorial items requested such as paw and nose prints or fur clippings will be gently prepared.

If you’ve chosen cremation through Pathway Veterinary Services and Faithful Companions, we will respectfully transport your pet for cremation. Assistance for pets over 40 pounds will be needed for transport to Dr. Lewis’ vehicle.

For families who select private cremation, ashes will be available after approximately 2 to 3 weeks for pick up in Abilene or will be shipped to your specified location.

Guidance for This Journey

1. How do I know it’s the right time?
This is a deeply personal decision. Dr. Lewis can provide guidance based on your pet’s quality of life, symptoms, and comfort. You’re not alone—we’re here to support you every step of the way.

2. Will my pet feel any pain?
No. The process is gentle and peaceful. Sedation ensures your pet is fully relaxed and unaware before the final medication is given.

3. Who should be present?
Anyone you feel should be there is welcome—family members, close friends, or even other pets if desired. Please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.

4. What should I do to prepare the space?
Choose a quiet, comfortable area where your pet feels safe—such as their favorite bed, blanket, or cozy corner. Dimming the lights and playing soft music can help create a soothing atmosphere.

Surround your pet with familiar comforts—favorite toys, treats, music, or even their favorite show on TV. You’re also welcome to offer a special snack, like a hamburger or some ice cream, if your pet is still interested in eating. These little gestures can bring comfort, joy, and love in their final moments.

5. Can my other pets be present?
Yes, and sometimes it helps them understand what is happening. After the procedure, allow them to see and smell your pet’s body to help with closure.

6. What are my options for aftercare?
We offer several options:

Communal Cremation: Your pet is cremated with others, and no ashes are returned.
Private Cremation: Your pet is cremated individually, and ashes are returned to you. We can discuss urn options and other keepsakes to help you honor your pet’s memory.
Home Burial: Please note that euthanasia medications are toxic to wildlife and other animals. To protect the environment and community health, certain guidelines must be followed:
- The burial site must be at least 200 feet from any streams or groundwater and 500 feet from any well supplying drinking water.
- The body must be covered with at least 3 feet of earth.
- A layer of lime should be placed at the bottom of the hole and over the body before covering.
- The soil should be compressed and leveled to prevent disturbance.

By choosing home burial, you accept responsibility for following these guidelines to ensure the safety of people, animals, and the environment. We will provide you with a formal agreement to acknowledge your understanding and release the veterinary team from liability.

We will walk you through all the available options and help coordinate aftercare.

7. What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, check, PayPal and Venmo. Payment is collected before or at the start of the appointment so you can focus on your pet.

8. What if I have more questions or need emotional support?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out. We have resources for grief support and pet loss counseling on our Resources page.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Journey

Don’t worry if emotions are overwhelming—tears, talking, and silence are all okay.
Consider having a trusted friend or family member with you for emotional support during and after the appointment.
It’s okay to ask questions or request extra time if you need it—there is no rush.
Afterward, allow yourself time to grieve. Be kind to yourself.
Remember that grief is unique to everyone; be patient with yourself and others in your household.

Guided by compassion, from the first call to the final goodbye.

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