Having a pet is one of life’s most rewarding experiences.
Sadly, part of that journey is saying goodbye.
We understand how difficult this decision can be, and our priority is to support you and your pet with compassion, dignity and care at every step.
Talk to us about end of life care
Here are some questions you may be wondering about...
When is the right time?
Deciding when to say goodbye is never easy.
Your vet is here to guide and support you, considering your pet’s quality of life, comfort, daily routine, and how their condition may progress.
We will work together with you to understand any changes in their behaviour, habits, and enjoyment of life.
If you feel that the time may be right, please contact us to arrange an appointment.
Booking the appointment
We offer appointments at quieter times of the day, or we can arrange a time that feels most suitable for you. During this appointment, we aim to give you the time and space to be with your pet without feeling rushed.
To help make the appointment as peaceful as possible, we ask owners to consider their preferred aftercare option for their pet in advance and let us know their decision before the appointment. This allows us to make any necessary arrangements ahead of time so that your visit can remain focused on spending precious time with your pet.
If you feel it would be helpful, we can arrange a telephone conversation with one of our trained nurses before the appointment. They can talk you through the euthanasia process, answer any questions you may have, and guide you through the aftercare options available.
What happens during your pets appointment?
Clients can choose whether they wish to be with their pet throughout the process, or to say goodbye beforehand - whichever feels right for you.
We understand that it can be hard to know how you will feel in the moment, and you can change your mind at any time.
To help your pet feel calm and relaxed, we may give them a gentle sedative injection. You are welcome to stay close and comfort them during this time, which usually takes around 10 minutes.
Once your pet is feeling sleepy, a small tube (called a cannula) is usually placed into a vein in their leg. Depending on a pet's individual needs, we may occasionally need to take them into our clinical area for this part of the process. Please don't be concerned if this happens; it is often simply because we need a little more space or assistance, or because your pet's veins are difficult to access.
When you are ready, the vet will administer an injection of anaesthetic. Your pet will drift into a deep sleep very quickly and peacefully. Once they are fully unconscious, their heart will gently stop beating.
The vet and nursing team will talk you through each step of the process and provide support and guidance throughout.
How do I prepare for the appointment?
Understandably, many owners wish to keep a lasting memory of their pet.
If you would like a paw print, we often find that taking one at home before the appointment can produce the best result and can be a meaningful activity to share with your pet.
If you wish, fur clippings can be taken by you at home. Alternatively, our veterinary team can provide a fur clipping for you on the day if requested.
What practical arrangements should I make?
We understand that paying your bill can feel difficult during an emotional time. To make the process as straightforward as possible, we offer several ways to settle your account. Please let us know which option would be most comfortable for you.
- Before the Appointment
Some owners prefer to arrange payment in advance, either when booking the appointment or following a discussion with one of our nurses. This means that no payments need to be made on the day of the appointment.
On the Day
If you would rather make payment on the day, we can arrange this in whichever way feels most comfortable for you:
- At reception
- In the consulting room
- Via a secure payment link sent to your phone
*Please note that before your pet can be collected by our cremation service, payment is required
Aftercare options
There are different options available for your pet after they have been put to sleep. Please read through the options below and consider which would best suit you and your pet.
We use Cambridge Pet Crematorium for all of our pet aftercare, but clients are welcome to select a crematorium of their own choice if they wish.
- Take your pet home
This option allows you to take your pet home for burial, either wrapped in biodegradable material or placed in a cardboard coffin purchased from the practice.
Some owners may choose this option if they have made their own arrangements with a pet crematorium.
- Communal Cremation
This option is chosen by many owners. Pets are cremated alongside other much-loved pets.
Ashes are not returned to owners and are instead scattered in the crematorium's Garden of Remembrance.
Individual cremation
Your pet is cremated individually, and their ashes are returned to the practice for you to collect, usually within 10–14 days.If you choose this option, we will ask how you would like your pet's ashes returned, with a range of containers and keepsakes available.
You can choose from:
- A plain green presentation box (a cardboard receptacle ideal for burying ashes in your garden or moving them into your own container)
- An 'emerald' scatter tube (A cardboard container designed specifically for scattering ashes)
- A wooden casket with a brass name plaque (as standard, these come in a traditional beech wood)
Additional designs, caskets, urns and keepsakes are available through CPC if you would like something more personalised. Further information can be found on the CPC website: www.cpccares.com
Grief affects everyone differently, and there is no right or wrong way to feel after losing a beloved pet.
If you have any questions following your appointment, or if you would like support regarding your chosen aftercare arrangements, please do not hesitate to contact the practice. Our team is here to help and support you during this difficult time.
Losing a beloved pet can be incredibly difficult, and it is important to remember that you do not have to cope alone. Many people find it helpful to speak with others who understand the bond they shared with their pet.
The following organisation offers support, advice and a listening ear:
Blue Cross Pet Loss Support Service
A free and confidential service providing emotional support for anyone affected by the loss of a pet. Support is available by telephone, email, webchat and through an online community.
The service is available every day from 8:30 am to 8:30 pm.
Telephone: 0800 096 6606
Email: [email protected]
