Here at Berthoud Animal Hospital, we know how much your beloved pet means to you and your family. Deciding that it is time for pet euthanasia services is never easy. Our team is here to help you make the difficult decision and answer the question is it time? If you think that euthanasia may be an option for your beloved pet, call our animal hospital to schedule a consultation with a veterinarian. Scheduling an appointment will allow the veterinarian to assess your pet’s mental and physical state, comfort level, and current health status. We are here to support you through the process and make the right decision for your pet.
What to Expect
If you decide that it is time for euthanasia, please call us and we will schedule an appointment for your pet when you are ready. To make the process as easy as possible for you, here is what you can expect:
Our Comfort Room
When you arrive at Berthoud Animal Hospital, you will be escorted into our comfort room. This room at our facility will give you and your beloved pet privacy and hopefully help you to relax.
Review Paperwork and Process
A team member will arrive shortly to review paperwork, body care options, and payment. We discuss these topics first so you can spend as much time with your pet as needed afterwards. If you have any specific requests or accommodations, please feel free to let us know.
Claw Paw Prints: Every euthanasia fee includes 1 claw paw print, which takes an impression of your pet’s paw in clay. Any additional paw print is $15. We do not bake your pet’s paw print for you, in case there is any changes you would like to make to the clay. Baking instructions will be including in the container of their paw print. We also have small hair jar memorabilia and ink nose/paw prints available upon request.
Sedation
A technician will return to the room with a sedation protocol for your pet. We sedate each pet prior to euthanasia to decrease stress and keep them as comfortable as possible. It will take about ten to fifteen minutes for the sedation to take full effect once it is administered, bringing your pet into a deep sleep. In some cases, pets may pass at this time. This is normal and is usually a sign that your pet was ready to go.
Saying Goodbyes
When you are ready, the technician and veterinarian will return to place an IV catheter, which will allow for seamless administration of the final medication. Once the catheter is placed, we will provide you and your pet some privacy for your final goodbyes. Remember, feel free to take as much time with your pet as needed before, during and after the procedure.
Always Remembered
When you are ready to leave, we request that you turn off the lights in the comfort room and close the door behind you. This will let our technicians know that you have departed. The technician will then return to the room to respectfully cover your pet’s body with a soft blanket. Your pet’s body will be transferred to the Precious Memories facility for aftercare, based on your request. If you need any additional resources for grieving or remembering a beloved pet, please let our team know.
