Time to Say Goodbye
Compassionate support when it matters most.
We hope the information below is helpful for families who may be preparing for their pet’s passing. Deciding to say goodbye is one of the hardest decisions an owner can make, sometimes it is the kindest way to relieve pain and suffering, even though it is deeply heartbreaking. Whenever the time comes, our team is here to guide you gently, at your pace.
Planning ahead
We offer the option of a pre-euthanasia consultation with one of our Registered Veterinary Nurses, by phone or in person, and usually without your pet needing to attend. Together we can talk through what will happen on the day, discuss aftercare options, and complete paperwork and payment in advance. Many families find this helps reduce stress and allows them to focus fully on their pet during the appointment itself.
What to expect
If your pet is elderly or has a long-term illness, there is often time to decide what feels right for you. Below are the choices and gentle steps involved.
At home: We can usually arrange home visits Monday to Friday, depending on availability. Being at home can be more comfortable for pets who find travel stressful, and allows families privacy afterwards. If we’re unable to attend, we can refer you to a trusted local mobile veterinary service and share your pet’s medical records with them.
At the practice: We will always aim to book appointments at quieter times, often at the end of consulting sessions. You are welcome to wait in your car or spend time with your pet in a private room before and after the appointment, there is no rush.
We work closely with St Francis Pet Cemetery and Crematorium in Cornwall, who provide respectful and trusted aftercare. You may choose:
- Individual cremation: ashes are returned to you in your choice of casket, urn or scattering box.
- Communal cremation: pets are cremated together, with no ashes returned.
Letters, photos, flowers or a favourite treat can accompany your pet. If you would prefer a different crematorium, we are always happy to work with your choice, and we can care for your pet while you take time to decide. Home burial is also an option, and we can advise on this to ensure safety.
Knowing what will happen can help families prepare. Whenever possible, we will have spoken with you beforehand to confirm your wishes and complete paperwork. On the day, we aim to keep everything calm, gentle and unhurried.
Sedation is often offered to help pets relax, particularly if they are anxious or in pain. This is given by injection and usually takes 15-30 minutes to take effect. A small cannula is then placed into a vein, and once you’re ready the final injection, an overdose of anaesthetic, allows your pet to fall asleep peacefully and pass away within seconds. Occasionally there may be reflex movements or breaths afterwards; these are normal and not signs of awareness. You may stay with your pet for as long as you wish, and we can provide a paw print or a clipping of fur as a keepsake.
“We put our family dog down with Whiskers recently. Obviously heartbreaking, but the vet who did it was fantastic and really made the whole tragic process feel as healing as possible, giving great respect to our late family member, and such kindness in the moments before and after.”
Solomon Phillips
Grief & support
The loss of a pet leaves a very real and painful gap. Grief affects everyone differently, and it is valid, regardless of your pet’s size or species. We are always here if you’d like to talk. You may also find these resources helpful:
- Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service: call 0800 096 6606 (UK, including Northern Ireland), open 8.30am-8.30pm every day. All calls are free and confidential.
- The Ralph Site: peer support after pet loss.
- Gentle books for children: Badger’s Parting Gifts by Susan Varley, Goodbye Mog by Judith Kerr, The Memory Tree by Britta Teckentrup, and Missing My Pet by Alex Lambert.
We’re here to help
If you’d like to talk through your options or arrange a pre-euthanasia consultation, please contact our team. There’s no rush, and we’ll support you every step of the way.
