Supporting Pet Owners Through End-of-Life Care

Determining the right time for euthanasia depends on your pet’s condition and quality of life. As their caregiver, you know them best and may notice changes such as:

• Lack of interest in food, water, or favorite activities
• Incontinence or difficulty standing
• Withdrawing from family or other pets
• Loss of grooming habits (for cats and some dogs)
• Unusual aggression, confusion, or depression
• No longer wagging their tail or showing excitement
• Struggling to walk or stand without assistance

If you’re unsure, we are here to help guide you through this difficult decision with care and understanding.

This is a deeply personal decision that only parents can make. Some families choose to have children present throughout the process, while others prefer they remain in another room. Every child processes grief differently, and parents are the best judges of what is appropriate for their situation.

Ideally, we recommend contacting us in advance to arrange a time that works best for you and your pet. However, we understand that circumstances can change quickly, and we do our best to accommodate urgent requests within 24–48 hours.

When our veterinarian arrives, they will take time to greet your pet and ensure they feel comfortable. You will then review and sign an authorization form, and payment will be handled beforehand to ease the process.

A gentle sedative will be administered first to help your pet relax. We use a fresh, small needle to minimize discomfort and distract them with petting, soothing words, or treats. Once your pet is peacefully sedated, the final injection is given, typically in a leg vein. This process is painless, and your pet will pass peacefully within moments.

You are welcome to spend as much time with your pet afterward as needed. If cremation has been chosen, we will respectfully transport your pet with care.

We work closely with a trusted crematorium that follows strict identification procedures to ensure that your pet’s ashes are returned to you. Rest assured, there are strict identification procedures in place to make sure that your pet’s ashes are theirs alone. If you have any concerns, we are happy to provide more information about the process. 

No, euthanasia is painless. The medication used is an overdose of anesthesia, allowing your pet to pass peacefully without distress.

The entire appointment typically lasts 30–45 minutes. The sedative allows your pet to relax before the final injection, which takes effect within 30–60 seconds. You are given time to say goodbye before aftercare arrangements are made.

The euthanasia drug first shuts down brain function, ensuring that your pet is unconscious and unaware. Since the brain is no longer sending signals to the heart and lungs, these functions gradually stop.

Having this procedure at home provides a peaceful, stress-free environment for both you and your pet. Benefits include:

• Familiar surroundings, reducing anxiety
• Comfort of favorite locations, scents, and family members
• Less stress for pets with mobility issues
• Opportunity for other household pets to be present and process the loss
• More space for family members to gather
• Easier arrangements for those who wish to bury their pet at home

Yes, you are welcome to stay for as much of the process as you feel comfortable with. Some families choose to remain present throughout, while others prefer to be there only for sedation. This decision is entirely up to you.

No special setup is required. You may choose to hold the procedure in your pet’s favorite spot, and some families find comfort in surrounding their pet with toys, blankets, music, or cherished items.

Yes, our team consists of fully licensed veterinarians who provide compassionate, professional care for you and your pet during this difficult time.

At Comforting Pet Care in Calgary, we are here to support you through every step, ensuring a peaceful and dignified farewell for your beloved companion.