When it is time to say goodbye…
We are here to support you.
Saying goodbye to a pet can be a truly heartbreaking experience. We understand that it can be an emotionally challenging time for pet owners. As your assistants, we are here to offer you our support and guidance throughout this difficult process.
Owning a pet can bring immense joy and unconditional love into our lives. However, as pets age, they may develop medical issues that can affect their quality of life. When considering a pet’s quality of life, it is important to consider their personal and family interactions.
We understand that discussing end-of-life decisions can be an upsetting and emotional experience. To help you through the decision-making process and answer any questions you may have, we have included information on this page that can provide you with the support you need.
How do I know it is time?
Making the decision to put a pet down is never easy, and it can be a very emotional and difficult decision to make. It is important to consider your pet’s well-being as well as the wishes and expectations of you and your family. We can help you determine the proper time frame for the procedure by asking you some questions about your pet’s quality of life.
For example, is your pet still able to move around easily?
Are they experiencing pain or discomfort?
Do they have trouble controlling their bladder or bowel movements?
We have included two links to quality-of-life questionnaires that may help you and your family decide what is best for your pet. If you are still unsure, you can always schedule a quality-of-life appointment with your veterinarian to discuss any concerns you have about your pet’s health.
What is the process for saying goodbye?
If you are wondering about the process of saying goodbye to your pet, we would like to help you with the necessary information.
If you would like to stay with your pet….
If you would like to stay with your pet during the procedure, you can call us to make an appointment with your preferred doctor. You are welcome to bring anyone with you to help you in this tough time. When you arrive, we will guide you to a room and make sure we understand your wishes. A technician may temporarily take your pet to place an IV catheter, which will help ensure your pet’s comfort. After that, your pet will be returned to the room, and when you are ready, a doctor will enter the room and administer an injection that will put your pet to sleep.
What if I choose not to be with my pet….
Please remember this is a very personal decision and there are no wrong answers. Call when you know it is time and let us know when you will be arriving. Upon arrival, we will guide you to a room and make sure we understand your wishes and complete the final arrangements. You are welcome to stay with your pet as long as you want. When you are ready to leave, the procedure will be performed immediately by a caring team member.
Final arrangement decisions
All final arrangement decisions will be handled respectfully by our team members. We provide cremation services through Eco Animal Cremation, which includes transportation of your pet to the crematory. If you select a private cremation, there are a variety of urn and engraving options, and the cremains will be returned to Ralston Vet. These prices vary based on pet size and urn choice. We will notify you upon their return. If you do not wish to have your pet’s remains, Eco Animal Cremation will perform a non-private cremation and will respectfully place your pet’s cremains in a collective ossuary.
What if my pet passes away at home….
If your pet passes away at home, you can bring your pet to our clinic, and our team will help you with the final arrangement options. Alternatively, Eco Animal Cremation offers services to pick up directly from your house. Please contact Eco Animal Cremation for these options.
Additional Options
In addition to the services we provide, Nebraska Pet Hospice also offers in-home euthanasia services for your convenience. If you prefer to say goodbye to your pet in the comfort of your own home, their compassionate team can come to you. They will guide you through the process and ensure that your pet is comfortable and pain-free. You can contact them through their website Nebraska Hospice to learn more about their services and schedule an appointment.