Palliative Care and End of Life

The hardest decision in life to make is the decision to relieve the suffering of a sick beloved pet. While many conditions can be treated by integrative and modern medicine, some medical cases result in too much pain or poor quality of life and we must make the responsible and humane decision to put our pet "to sleep." 

Palliative Care

Palliative care options are those that provide a quality of life that a pet may continue its regular routine, hydration and appetite and overall joy in life, without being hospitalized and away from the owners for long periods of time. 

Cremation

Our crematory services are provided externally and exclusively by Peaceful Pet Passage. There is no other cremation service in the area who does so with the utmost integrity, ethics and service that this company provides to both you and your pet. They honor your pet by retrieving them from our office the same day, usually within hours and have them back in your hands in a very timely manner. No waiting a couple weeks for delivery of a "private" cremation. We're confident you will be pleased with their care and service as much as we are.

**Note: For persons electing other alternate options for after-care for their pet, you will need to make arrangements prior to your appointment as we are unable to hold animal remains at our facility. We do provide cadaver bags for transport. 

End of Life

Humane euthanasia is a unique gift that we, as veterinarians, can provide to your pet. Euthanasia is translated as  "good death" and literally means just that. It is a smooth and painless transition from this world unto the next. We are here for you to help guide you through your pet's transition and to assist you in making end of life decisions and plans for your pet.

We strive to make the transition as smooth and painless as possible for your pet. In most instances, the procedure is as follows: You will all be escorted to a private room. Generally, we will take a brief history to make sure there is no other option for your pet. Also, be  prepared, some authorization forms will need to be filled out prior to the procedure being performed. Our technicians will place an IV catheter for good venous access. When everyone is ready, an injectable anesthetic will be given so that no pain will be felt and the pet will become calm and relaxed. Lethal injection will be given when everyone is ready. 

It is OK to choose to not be with your pet during this time. We respect that. Just let one of our caring staff members know and we will arrange a drop off time for you so that a doctor is available to attend to your pet's transition as soon as possible. 

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Pet Loss Support and Grief Counselling ​

Everyone processes grief differently. We all are very aware that losing your pet is one of the most difficult emotional events that can happen in a lifetime. It really is just not fair that they cannot live as long as we do. Below are several hotlines that are available and staffed with wonderful caring individuals who have been trained in discussing your grief and worry and are there to help you heal from your pet's transition.
Michigan State Pet Loss Support Hotline
University of Pennsylvania Pet Loss Support
Cornell Pet Loss Support Hotline
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View our Memorial Page here. 
Consider donating to our Gift of Grace Fund to help offset the medical expenses of patients in need.