Euthanasia and pet bereavement services

Euthanasia and pet bereavement services

At Scott Veterinary Clinic, we take a client led approach to our ‘end of life’ services. Our experienced team will always provide information and answer any questions honestly and with compassion.

Making the decision
It is a sad fact that our pets have a limited lifespan and that one day we will have to make the incredibly difficult decision to put them to sleep. We will discuss with you when and where the process may take place. We also recommend that you take this opportunity to think about how you want to care for your pet once he or she has passed.
The decision may be harder with animals that have a chronic illness and their quality of life is deteriorating slowly. We will support you and recommend the most appropriate course of action, based on their welfare and wellbeing to help you make an informed decision when the time comes.

Preparing to say goodbye
You may have lots of questions. Some may be practical, some financial or you may have a special request. Our experienced nurses can help answer your questions in a free consultation. This discussion is by appointment and can take place in person or over the phone. Please ask our team for details.
You might find the following chart helpful when assessing your pets quality of life at home:
How Do I Know When It’s Time?

Euthanasia appointment
We will do all that we can to support you and your family through the event. Where possible we will book an appointment at a quieter time of the day and use a room that you can enter and leave without having to go through our waiting room. In some circumstances and subject to suitability, we can also use our private outdoor garden area for dogs (weather permitting).

Home euthanasia
This may be less stressful for both you and your pet as you are both in a familiar environment.
We do ask that you provide as much notice as possible. Home visits are available between 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday.

The euthanasia process
Before any procedures takes place we will answer any questions you may have. We will also ask you to read and sign a consent form, which also confirms to us how you would like us to care for your pet once he/she has passed.
We prepare your pet by clipping some fur, usually on their front leg, to locate a vein into which one of our vets will administer the injection. Apart from feeling a small scratch from the injection, euthanasia is a painless process.
The euthanasia procedure for exotics may vary according to species. Please be assured, we will discuss this with you, before the procedure takes place.

Should you stay during euthanasia?
The choice is yours. Many owners find comfort in staying with their pet. However, you must not feel guilty if you feel being there would be too upsetting. The decision is yours and we will support whatever decision you make.

After life body care
We have a range of options available to you. You can choose to leave your pet’s remains with us to make the final arrangements or you may wish to complete them yourself.

Burial
You should consider the following before opting for burial:
• You must have the landowner’s permission
• Would you be happy to leave his or her remains if you were to move home?
• The grave should be 3-4 feet deep to ensure your pet’s resting place isn’t disturbed by wildlife or have the top soil washed away by rain.
• Your pets remains should not be wrapped in any material that cannot naturally decompose, such as plastic.

Pet Cremation
We can arrange for Pet Cremation Services, based in Northamptonshire, to collect your departed pet for cremation. PCS has been providing pet owners a dignified pet cremation service for over 30 years. The services offered include communal cremation and individual cremation. You can also arrange to take your pet to one of their dedicated sites for cremation while you wait.
https://www.pcsonline.org.uk/

Communal Cremation
If you do not want to receive your pet’s ashes back PCS provide a communal cremation service where pets are cremated together.

Individual Cremation
If you would prefer to receive your pet’s ashes back PCS provide an individual pet cremation service. Each pet cremation takes place in a separate chamber to ensure you receive just your pet’s ashes. PCS offer a range of caskets and urns to keep your pet’s ashes safe.

Farewell Room
At each of their Crematoriums & Cemeteries, the Farewell Room’s are available for you to say your final farewells, should you wish to attend the cremation or burial of your pet.

Books of Remembrance
Within the farewell room, there are numerous books of remembrance where hundreds of letters, poems and photographs received over the years with moving tributes, poems and written memories of pets are on display from bereaved owners. Everyone is welcome to visit and read the books, express their feelings and draw comfort from the thoughts of other bereaved owners.
Please contact our team on 01234 261622 to confirm arrangements and payment for these services.
Keepsakes and Delivery Options
Keepsakes and Delivery Options Middle

Pet loss and bereavement support

The Blue Cross
The Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS) mission is to provide free and confidential emotional support. The lines are open from 8:30 am to 8:30 pm every day.
Tel: 0800 096 6606
www.bluecross.org.uk
pbssmail@bluecross.org.uk

Samaritans
Samaritans provide confidential non-judgemental support 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress.
Tel: 116 123
www.samaritans.org
jo@samaritans.org

Cats Protection
Launched by Cats Protection, paws to listen, is a confidential phone line enabling owners to speak to trained volunteers who can offer emotional and practical help in coping with pet loss. The lines are open from 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday excluding bank holidays.
Tel: 0800 024 94 94
www.cats.org.uk/grief

The Ralph Site – pet loss support
The Ralph Site is a not-for-profit online pet bereavement resource. It provides support and useful resources to pet carers around the difficult time of the loss of a beloved companion. It consists of a website, a Facebook page and a busy private Facebook group.