1. What is Humane Euthanasia?
When a pet's suffering prevents a good quality of life, euthanasia performed by a veterinarian is the most humane option to provide a peaceful death. Dr. Stephanie helps pets pass away in the comfort and familiarity of home, while surrounded by loved ones.
2. What is the Euthanasia Process?
Once settled in your home, Dr. Stephanie gives a sedative injection. Once administered, it gently causes a deep and unfeeling sleep. A delicious food of any kind can be a helpful distraction for dogs if an appetite is still present.
When the sedative takes full effect after about 10-15 minutes, Dr. Stephanie administers the euthanasia injection, which causes the heart to stop within 1-2 minutes. Dr. Stephanie will confirm your pet has passed after the injection has been given, and will give you some private time for initial grieving before she transports your deceased pet to the crematory, if planned.
Considerations:
Visit generally takes 45-60 minutes.
You and your pet can be anywhere in your home, or yard if shady and dry.
Everyone is recommended to individually decide which parts of the process they want to witness. There is always the option to change your mind.
Other household pets may be present if they are calm, and you prefer it. You can also bring them in the room after the euthanasia process.
If Dr. Stephanie is providing aftercare service, she will provide 10 minutes of private grieving time before transporting your pet. If more time is needed, please discuss options with Dr. Stephanie.
If your pet is aggressive with people, and/or gentle restraint, Dr. Stephanie must be informed in advance of scheduling.
Feel free to reach out to Dr. Stephanie via Phone, Text, or Email if you have specific questions about the euthanasia process:
Contact Page
3. Can I change my mind to euthanize at the time of appointment?
Yes. You are always in charge of the decision to euthanize your pet; even at the appointment. Dr. Stephanie also reserves the right to refuse euthanasia service, as she only euthanizes to end suffering when no other humane option(s) exist, considering all circumstances.
4. What is a Quality of Life Assessment?
It is heartbreaking and often confusing to be faced with the consideration of euthanasia. Helping a beloved pet pass away with dignity and ease is one of the most loving gestures, but timing is always the big question. Quality-of-Life veterinary assessments provide objective guidance on humane euthanasia timing.
For a comprehensive Quality of Life Assessment, please visit:
Cara DeLaRosa is a Certified Quality of Life Assessment and Pet Loss Professional. She has over 10 years experience helping pet parents navigate their pet's End of Life, and also offers grief counseling.
5. What if my pet is aggressive or feral?
Safety always comes first. Dr. Stephanie will discuss your pet's behavior with you in detail. She relies on experience and judgment as a guide to helping your pet safely. If your pet is not manageable in a home environment with gentle restraint, s/he will be referred to a more equipped facility for care.
6. What Cremation Services are Offered?
Cats, and Dogs weighing 50 pounds or less:
Upon request, Dr. Stephanie can help with cremation service through Koefran.
Communal Cremation: Ashes of pets cremated together with other pets are respectfully spread on private property in Northern California. Ashes are not returned to you.
Individual/Private Cremation: Ashes of pets cremated completely separate from other pets are UPS mailed in 2-3 weeks in a Cedar urn included (photo insert or without). Engraving is an add-on option.
Handmade Clay Paw Prints (with color choice)
Dogs weighing over 50 pounds:
Dr. Stephanie is available to transport your deceased pet to a hospital providing help with cremation service. Pending your home location, arrangements are made directly by you with either VCA PetCare East in Santa Rosa (707-579-3900), or VCA Animal Care Center in Rohnert Park (707-584-4343). Please call these hospitals directly for details and service quotes. Deceased pet transport to other hospitals or crematories, may be offered on a case-by-case arrangement with Dr. Stephanie.
6. How do I talk to my child about pet loss?
7. How can I get a service quote?
Quotes based on:
-Pet Weight and Breed
-Address/Home location
-Aftercare needs
Provide Dr. Stephanie with this information via text, email, or voicemail, and she will provide a service quote.
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8. What forms of payment are accepted?
Payment is due at the visit. Cash, Check, and the Venmo App are accepted. Care Credit and Credit Cards are not accepted. A credit card can be linked to Venmo. A $35 bank service fee will be assessed for returned checks.
If your pet has medical insurance coverage, please ask Dr. Stephanie to provide the documentation your company requires to submit a claim. All pet insurance companies have varying requirements, so contact them directly for details regarding what is needed.
