Getting Ready to Say Goodbye

How to know when it’s time to say goodbye

• You know your pet best. Has their behaviour or mood changed? Do they still enjoy the activities that they used to, like playing with their favourite toys, going on walks or lying in the sun? Has their quality of life diminished? Does moving around seem painful or uncomfortable for them?
• Your vet can help you make the right choice for you and your pet.
• You should also discuss it with your friends and family. It can help to have an objective opinion from someone who knows your pet well.

Before the appointment

COVID-19 guidelines: Contact our staff to find out what steps you need to take before your appointment. The protocol will depend on the current health situation.

• Call us to schedule an appointment so we can reserve the family room for you.
• The decision to be in the room during the procedure is a highly personal one. It’s completely understandable to not want to come to the appointment yourself.
• If you can’t be there and your pet’s file is under your name, please just give the person who’s bringing your pet a signed letter stating that you give them permission to act on your behalf.
• Explain why you made this decision to your children, using easy-to-understand language that plainly states what actually happened. Children can have a hard time understanding why their furry friend won’t be coming back from “Heaven,” or why they won’t wake up after “going to sleep.”
• You get to decide what happens with your pet after euthanasia. The group euthanasia service is for those who don’t want to keep their pet’s ashes, but still want to give them a dignified and respectful send off. You can also store your pet’s ashes at home with you in an individual urn. Visit the Crémanimo website and browse the catalogue of available options.
• Spend quality time with your companion and say goodbye before the procedure. If you don’t feel ready or you change your mind, you are always welcome to cancel your appointment.
  Please feel free to come to us with any questions or concerns.

During the appointment

• A staff member will greet you when you arrive and give you the consent form to sign. You can also choose to pay at this time, so you can leave the hospital directly after the procedure.
• Once you’ve settled in the family room, please let us know if you need more time with your pet. Our team will come get you when you’re ready.
• If you can’t be there and your pet’s file is under your name, please just give the person who’s bringing your pet a signed letter stating that you give them permission to act on your behalf. If you decide not to be in the room, our team will perform the euthanasia as soon as you leave.
• Euthanasia is a two-step process. First, we’ll administer a sedative that sends your pet into a deep sleep. The shot may sting a bit and cause your pet to react. However, any discomfort will pass quickly. It’s normal for your pet’s eyes to stay open, and some trembling or vomiting may occur. Our team is on hand at all times if you have any concerns.
• The second step involves intravenously administering an overdose of anaesthesia. Your pet is now heavily sedated and will pass away peacefully.
• Once they’ve administered the injection, the veterinarian will listen to your pet’s heart to make sure it’s stopped. It is common for your pet’s eyes to stay open or to see involuntary chest movements as the muscles relax.

After the appointment

• Take as much time as your need to say your goodbyes. When you’re ready, you can just leave the room and one of our team members will come take care of your pet right away.
• It’s completely normal to feel very sad or upset. Ask a loved one to accompany you home if necessary.
• The grieving process might last a few weeks or a few months. Over time, the sadness will be replaced by good memories that will comfort you and help you cope with your beloved companion’s death. Online resources and support groups can also be very helpful during this time.