Deciding When to Euthanize

Our pets are our family. It’s a shame they don’t live as long as we do. There comes a point in their lives that we may have to make the difficult decision to say goodbye and deciding the right time to do so can be a very difficult process. We know it’s not an easy decision, but doing as much planning and preparing as possible ahead of time can make it easier on you when the time comes.

Once the decision has been made, we try to make the experience as smooth and serene as possible. When you come in with your pet, we show you to a room immediately. There is a blanket and a mat for your pet and Kleenex available for you, as well as soft music playing. We take care of paperwork and billing as soon as you arrive so that you are free to leave when you are ready, without having to worry about stopping at the front desk for any reason.

You have the option of staying with your pet during the entire process. Ask your veterinarian to describe the methods and details of the euthanasia procedure. Think about who (if anyone) you would like to be with you at this time. If you wish to be alone during the procedure, you may still want a friend or family member to accompany you to the appointment so you will have support before and afterward.

If you plan to stay with your pet during euthanasia, the doctor may place an IV catheter in your pet’s leg, and give the injection into the catheter. Sometimes a sedative is given first to calm your pet. If you choose not to stay with your pet, please rest assured that a technician and the doctor are with your pet at all times.

You also have options on what to do with your pet’s remains. If you so choose, you can take your pet to bury at home. If you do not want to do that, we use Final Gift Pet Memorial Center located in Middleboro, MA (www.finalgift.com). Your pet can be cremated with other pets (the ashes are scattered on their grounds), called group cremation or cremated alone and the ashes are returned to you, called individual cremation. If you choose to have your pet individually cremated, you'll have your choice of an urn, there are 3 complimentary ones you can choose from. There’s also a wide variety of urns available, either on the Final Gift website, or you can search the internet for other sites. If you choose individual cremation, your pets ashes will be returned to Crossroads in approximately 1 week and we will call you to notify you that they have returned. We also offer clay paw prints and complimentary fur clippings, if you would like those. 

Just about everyone here at Crossroads has had to make the difficult decision to euthanize, whether our pets have been very sick or their quality of life has declined due to aging. Sometimes we don’t have a chance to think about these options listed above because of a sudden illness or injury. It is never too early to think of what you would want to do if something were to happen. Talking it out with your family can help you be prepared when the time comes. We try to make this process as easy as possible on you and your family because we understand your pain.

If we can be of any further assistance during such a difficult time, please let us know as we are part of your support system.