Frequently Asked Questions

Dr. Catching or Dr. Silva visit your home to help give your pet the gift of a peaceful passing where they are surrounded by the comforts of home and love of family. We will assess your pet’s condition and have a discussion about the pet’s history and quality of life.  This is a somber and respectful time and will not appear like a full physical exam your pet would receive at the vet clinic.  We will not move forward with the procedure until you are entirely comfortable. Once you are ready, you will sign a humane euthanasia consent form.

You can also discuss whether you, other pets, or any children want to be present during the euthanasia process. Your Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian’s priority is providing your pet with the most peaceful passing possible. You know your family best. If children and other pets are able to have a calming effect on your pet and won't impede the vet's ability to provide a peaceful transition, then they are absolutely welcome to be present throughout the procedure.  

After deciding that euthanasia is the next humane course of action, you can schedule an appointment by calling, texting, or emailing.  Dr. Silva or Dr. Catching will then contact you to walk you through all the next steps and answer any questions you may have.  Payment will be required at the time of scheduling the appointment or when we arrive at your home.  

• Sacramento (south of the American River) 
• Arden-Arcade
• Carmichael 
• Fair Oaks
• Gold River
• Orangevale
• Citrus Heights
• Mather
• Rosemont
• Florin
• Vineyard
• Laguna
• West Sacramento
• Rancho Cordova
• Folsom/EDH
• Elk Grove
• Rocklin
• Roseville

Medications

We encourage you to give your pet’s medication as prescribed, unless doing so would cause unnecessary discomfort.

Treats

You can give your pet some special treats prior to or during the appointment. However in some cases, the calming medications given during the appointment can cause nausea and even vomiting. For this reason we encourage you to limit portion size.

Location 

We want your pet to be as comfortable as possible. As long as your vet has access to your pet, they may choose any location, whether that's curled up in your lap, nestled in your bed, or sunbathing by a favorite tree.

Parking

Please provide any special instructions or gate codes when your vet contacts you prior to the appointment. You may also leave parking or entering instructions in your booking process.

1. Your pet will be given medication(s) for pain relief and anti-anxiety resulting in deep sedation/anesthesia.  This injection will be given via a small needle under the skin or in a muscle. Your pet may feel a slight pinch or momentary discomfort, but many pets do not feel it at all. Depending on your pets condition and other factors the medications may take effect quickly or more gradually, your veterinarian will let you know what to expect. 
2. Once your pet is comfortably and soundly asleep, your veterinarian will provide the euthanasia medication. This medication causes the pet to peacefully transition into an unconscious state that results in stopping of breathing and heartbeat.
3. As the body transitions energy is released from the muscles. At first this may appear as movement such as a slight twitching of the legs or ears or disorganized deep breaths. Then you may notice a loss of bladder and bowel control and the eyes remaining open. These are normal and natural reactions and can occur whether death is natural or assisted. They are not cause for alarm, but you should feel comfortable asking your veterinarian any questions you have during this process.
4. After your pet passes, you will have the opportunity to spend as much time as you need with your pet. Your veterinarian’s goal is to provide your pet the most dignified, pain-free, and peaceful passing possible. 

After your pet has passed, the doctor will then respectfully and lovingly prepare your pet for transport it to Caring Pet Crematory for either group cremation or, if you desire, individual cremation.  With individual cremation, you will receive a phone call directly from the crematorium when the remains are ready to be picked up. Or for an additional fee the ashes can be mailed.  The ashes will be placed in a Rosewood urn. The Caring Pet Crematory also offers witnessing appointments for the private cremation.  You can also decide to keep your pet for home burial or contact a pet cemetery of your own choosing.

During your appointment, your veterinarian will confirm your aftercare selection options with you. If you choose cremation services, and your pet is less than 50lbs, your veterinarian will oversee your pet’s transportation to a local facility for cremation. If your pet is over 50lbs we will require assistance with lifting the pet into our cars for transport to the crematory.  Or we can help coordinate with the crematorium for scheduling a time for pick up.  If your preferred cremation option includes the return of your pet’s ashes to you, your veterinarian will discuss how that process works and the expected timeline during your appointment. If you opt to bury your pets at home. Please refer to your municipal city code for details. This is illegal in some cities. There is no additional cost if you decide to keep your pet's remains. We do not provide boxes or coffins.

No, we do not provide home euthanasia services for aggressive dogs.  This is best suited for your primary veterinarian in their office. 

Currently we are only seeing dogs and cats 

Having your pet spend its last few moments at home in a familiar and loving environment is less stressful for them and for you and your family. You can make their final moments more intimate, relaxing and loving.   

Free cancellation 24 hours prior to your appointment. Please make sure you contact us to cancel your appointment PRIOR to us showing up at your home, otherwise the full fee ($375) is required