Comfort in the Place They Love Most
For many pets, home is where they feel safest. In-home euthanasia allows your pet to remain in their favorite bed, under their favorite tree, or surrounded by the familiar scents of family.
Why Choose In-Home Care?
In-home services allow for a completely personalized timeline. It eliminates the struggle of transporting a pet with mobility issues or the fear an anxious pet feels during a car ride. Our team travels within 30 miles of Rochester to bring professional, medical grace to your doorstep.
Preparation for Our Visit
- The Setting: Choose a spot where your pet is most relaxed. We can perform the service indoors or outdoors (weather permitting).
- Atmosphere: We encourage soft music, favorite toys, and low lighting.
- Calming: Lavender essential oils can be calming and you can place 1-2 drops on the nape of their neck or head.
- Logistics: Please ensure a parking spot is available near your entrance so the medical team may have easy access to their supplies and for the easy transfer of your pet to the doctors vehicle as they will provide transportation to Pet Passages for after care services.
An Understanding of the Visit
- First Medication: Once you are ready, the doctor will administer one injection under the skin that is a combination of a pain medication, a sedative, and an anesthetic that allows your pet to fall into a deep, peaceful sleep.
- Stranger Anxiety: We can step out of the room if your pet has stranger anxiety, so the last thing your pet is aware of is only your family.
- Second Medication: Once your pet is comfortable, the doctor will locate an area to give the second medication.
- What to Expect: Once the medication is given, the mind will quiet first, followed by the breathing and then the heart will stop beating.
- Timing: The location in which the medication is given will determine how long it will take for your pet's passage, but the doctor will confirm your pet has passed.
- Aftercare Transport: If you have chosen Pet Passages to handle your pet's aftercare, the doctor will then bring in a stretcher with a pillow and blanket to transport your pet to his/her vehicle.
- Assistance: The doctor will require assistance from one family member or friend if your pet is over 30 pounds.
Special Considerations
- Anxiety/Aggression: If your pet is fearful of strangers, please let us know when calling. We can provide a pre-visit oral sedation kit ($50) to ensure they are relaxed before we even enter the home.
- New York State: requires that we ask whether your pet has bitten any human in the last 10 days. If your pet has bitten someone, please call us ahead of time so that we can discuss how to best proceed with a goodbye visit.
How to Get Started
Euthanasia appointments and aftercare must be coordinated at least one day in advance to ensure a seamless, stress-free experience. Please call our office at 585-265-9933, and our compassionate team will guide you through the scheduling and preparation process.