Frequently Asked Questions
What would you like to know about our mobile Vets and services?
It is never a good time to be faced with an end of life situation. But the more information you have, the more likely you are to have the most gentle and dignified experience. So what would you like to know about our mobile Vets and services?
Q. When is the right time for euthanasia?
A. This is a decision that only you and your family can make. But in general, if this is needed, we would say that sooner is usually better than later. If your pet’s health has reached the stage where euthanasia is the best option, waiting can often lead to unnecessary suffering on their part. A discussion with our Vets or Care Coordinators will give you the help and advice you need to make a decision.
Our quality of life assessments are designed to give you all the information you need to know about your pet’s health and any pain that they might be feeling.
Q. How can I tell if my pet is in pain?
A. There are many tell-tale signs, some of which are specific to certain species or even certain breeds. If your pet experiences any of the following you should consider consulting us:
- Changes in appetite or the amount they drink
- No longer interested in playing, interacting or perhaps hiding away
- Becoming confused, grumpy, dazed or behaving out of character
- Unable to stand – or get up – on their own
- Increasing incontinence, daytime and at night
- Sleeping a lot – or not at all
- Vocalisation – excessively, or not at all even when usually “talkative”
It’s important to remember that not all signs that you associate with your pet being “happy” or “sad” necessarily mean the same thing to your them. For example, a cat will still purr even if in pain and may still yowl, sounding as if they are in pain, even if perfectly content.
Q. How exactly does the euthanasia process work?
A. Some of our clients prefer not to know the actual details of what’s involved, but if you feel you need to know please consult the pet euthanasia page here on our website. You’ll find all of the specifics there.
Q. Does euthanasia hurt my pet?
A. No. Your pet will go to sleep and lose consciousness very quickly and won’t be able to feel any pain whatsoever after this point. The tiny prick of the injection is all that they will feel.
Q. Why would I euthanise my pet in my home?
A. We tend to find that allowing your pet to spend their final days in the place where they feel most comfortable and happy is best for the pet and the family. There’s also no need to pack them into a pet carrier or force them to struggle into the car when they’re already uncomfortable.
Q. Is there no treatment available for my elderly pet?
A. There may well be – many of the symptoms of old age can indeed be treated with medication or by changing their lifestyle in a way which minimises their pain or suffering. A quality of life care assessment will be your best method of determining this.
Q. Will there be much paperwork?
A. No. We will need you to sign a consent form, but that’s it.
Q. Do I have to stay all the way through?
A. Most of our clients prefer to have the euthanasia performed at home so that they can be with their animal companions throughout this difficult time. If you find it too much, however, you are in your own house and you can, of course, choose, to leave your home visit Vet to care for your pet. They know how and are – dedicated to provide the most sympathetic and best possible care for your pet. If you want to come back and say goodbye one final time at the end, they’ll make sure you have that opportunity.
