Hospice and Euthanasia
Unfortunately, pets age much more quickly than people. As a result, most pet owners must eventually make difficult decisions near the end of a beloved pet’s life. At Brookview Animal Hospital, we provide a variety of hospice and end of life services to help you compassionately navigate the final months, days, or moments of your pet’s life.
Hospice and End of Life Comfort Care
When a pet receives is terminally ill, seriously injured, or approaching the last days of a full life, the focus of veterinary care shifts from curative treatments to palliative care. We can help you keep your pet comfortable with a variety of end of life care services designed to manage pain and increase comfort.
Recognizing When It's Time for a Compassionate Passing
Sometimes it can be difficult to know when the time for a peaceful passing has arrived. At the end of a pet’s life, symptoms can progress rapidly, and we usually recommend euthanasia when a pet can no longer be kept comfortable and happy with palliative care.
Signs that your pet might be ready to pass on include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Extreme weakness or lethargy
- No longer eating or drinking
- Severe pain and discomfort
- Lack of bowel movements
- Isolation from family members
If you’re not certain about your pet’s condition, we always welcome you to call our office to consult with a veterinarian.
What to Expect During Euthanasia
When it’s time for your pet’s peaceful passing, we’ll recommend euthanasia. The appointment will begin by discussing your pet’s condition and a physical exam. We’ll then talk with you about the aftercare options available for your pet’s remains, and we’ll ask you to sign a consent form.
We always welcome our patient’s family members to remain with their pet throughout the appointment to provide support and comfort during the process. Euthanasia is performed by administering an overdose of an anesthetic. This allows them to pass away peacefully, calmly, and without pain.
Although euthanasia is one of the most difficult decisions pet owners are called to make on behalf of their pets, it truly is one of the most selfless and compassionate things you can do when your beloved companion is no longer treatable and is suffering.
Professional Guidance and Compassionate Support from our Veterinarian
At Brookview Animal Hospital, we understand how difficult it can be to face your pet’s final moments. For this reason, we’ll be with you every step of the way. We’re always here to provide you with advice, guidance, and veterinary support to keep your pet comfortable, maintain a quality of life, and to provide a compassionate end when the time comes.
