FAQs
What is hospice care?
Pet hospice care focuses on maximizing a pet's quality of life during a terminal or life-limiting illness by managing pain and symptoms, providing emotional support, and helping with end-of-life decisions. It involves veterinary guidance for comfort, pain management with medication, and support for caregivers to create a calm, loving environment at home. The goal is to ensure the pet's final days or weeks are as peaceful and pain free as possible, allowing for a dignified and gentle goodbye.
When is the right time?
As a vet and also a pet owner of many years I know how difficult it is to know when is the right time. I always say to people "it's better to say goodbye a week to early than a day too late". To help you decide when is the right time to say goodbye I offer a free pre euthanasia chat via email or telephone. If you would like to discuss euthanasia of your pet please reach out via the website.
How long does it take for a peaceful goodbye?
As everything is taking place inside your home we can take as long as we need to. No goodbye will ever feel rushed. Each appointment is slightly different and tailored to you and your pet. As a general guide most appointments take around 1 hour but in some cases can be as short as 30 mins or several hours depending on your wishes.
Will my pet feel pain?
Absolutely not. Your pet will feel no pain or stress as every pet is given a general anaesthetic before I perform a euthanasia. This is given under the skin in the back of the neck (similar to a vaccine) while they are being distracted by cuddles and treats. Once administered, it is very effective and will soon take all your pet’s pain away and put them into a beautiful deep sleep.
My dog isn't good with vets, will they need a muzzle?
I think the secret to peaceful end of life care is for your pet not to know I am a vet. I am just a friend who has come to visit with a lot of tasty treats! I will almost never use a muzzle as dogs are much more relaxed in their own home and usually we can distract them with treats or a toy when they get the anaesthetic injection.
How much notice do you need for euthanasia?
Due to how unpredictable end of life care can be I can usually accommodate same day appointments. As I currently work alone and cover a large area this may not always possible and priority will be given to registered hospice clients. Generally people will give me 1-2 days notice so I can fit them in around their preferred times.
What if my pet needs treatments that can't be carried out at home?
As I only treat hospice patients for end of life care additional procedures are unlikely to be suggested. Anything requiring hospitalisation, surgery or further tests would be referred back to your registered veterinarian.
Will my insurance cover euthanasia?
Some insurance companies will cover a portion of the cost of a euthanasia. I would suggest contacting your insurance provider to find out if this is included in your policy. Please note I am unable to do direct claims but if you would like to make a claim please email info@tailsoflovevet.co.uk with "insurance" in the title and I will process your insurance paperwork within 7 working days. I will usually need you to fill in your section of the claim form first and then I can then send this on to your insurer with all the relevant documents to progress your claim.
What are crisis kits and how do I use one?
A crisis kit is essentially medication intended to be used only in case of a sudden crisis in a terminally ill pet. It is something I may leave with a pet owner at the time of the initial hospice consultation. It’s also called a “just in case” kit.
It gives you peace of mind that if things got worse very quickly, there is something you can give to help your pet while you're waiting for me to arrive.
A crisis kits could for example contain a stronger pain killer and something for anxiety, to make your pet calmer and more comfortable while waiting for me to arrive.
What about cremation arrangements?
All cremations have to be arranged separately with the crematorium or your vet clinic. I can usually offer transportation for your pet to the crematorium if you would not like to or are unable to take your pet on their final journey yourself.
My car is arranged in a way with a lovely soft rainbow bed and a blanket so your pets final journey will be as loving and dignified as if they were my own pet.
For information on the 2 local crematoriums please see my "Aftercare" page.
Should I let my other pets see my pet afterwards?
I firmly believe that all bonded animals should have the chance to see a companion after they have passed. Quite often it will just be a glance or a quick sniff for them to process what has happened.
Some pets may grieve a companion. I would advise to keep to your normal routine as much as possible. Some pets may want more attention from you, some may become withdrawn and eat less. This is a normal process but if you are worried they are in a prolonged state of grief please reach out to your vet.
If you would like your other pets to be present during the euthanasia appointment this is absolutely fine and I will do everything I can to make it as peaceful for everyone.
Can I discuss this all through email if I can't talk?
I completely understand if you are too upset to talk so I am more than happy to communicate via email with you on info@tailsoflovevet.co.uk