Deciding when to put your beloved pet “to sleep”, is never an easy thing to do. It is emotionally difficult for everyone involved. Owners may question, “Am I doing the right thing”? Or “is there something else that can be done”?

These questions can best be answered by Dr. Winter. However, it is important to understand that this big decision ultimately needs to be made by the owners.

When facing the possibility of euthanasia, it is important to look at the situation from the pet’s perspective. Does your pet have a good quality of life? Are they continuously in pain or discomfort? Is the health issue ever going to be completely treated? If the answer to these questions is “no”, then the most unselfish thing that you can do to help your pet, is to humanely euthanize them. Although it’s a very difficult decision to make, in doing this, you are offering rest and peace for your friend.

It may be helpful to know and understand the euthanasia process. Dr. Winter gently administers the euthanasia solution into your pet’s vein, (which is similar to giving anesthesia for a surgical procedure). Euthanizing an animal is painless, fast acting, and they peacefully fall asleep. Your pet is completely unconscious almost immediately after the solution has been administered.

After your pet is euthanized, a decision should be made on how to handle the remains. There are several options available for our clients. For those who do not wish to have their pet’s remains returned, mass cremation is an option For those who wish to have the ashes returned, individual cremation is available. With individual cremation you receive your pet’s ashes in either a cardboard box or an urn of your choice, which includes engraving. There are many beautiful urns to choose from and you can decide ahead of time, with help from the CVS staff. A certificate of cremation also accompanies your pet’s ashes.

If you have any questions regarding this process, please contact the CVS staff.

We pet owners know full well, how difficult it is to lose our beloved friends. For many of us, we grieve for our pets, in the same manner as we would for a family member. Experiencing a roller coaster of emotions such as feelings of anger, denial, and heartbreak are completely normal.

The staff at CVS have all experienced losing a beloved pet and are committed to making the euthanasia process as easy as possible on you and your family.