How do I know if it’s time?

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This complicated and emotional decision can be one of the hardest to make. Sometimes, it’s clear when a beloved pet is struggling and is ready to journey on, but often the situation is more complex.  It may be reassuring to hear that there usually isn’t a single right time; rather, there’s a time window when choosing euthanasia is a reasonable option. Some people lean towards sooner rather than later, before their pet’s condition deteriorates extensively; others choose to hold on longer, in which cases comfort care and pain control can become especially important measures to support quality of life. 

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Here is a link to an article with a good overview.

 

If you find yourself uncertain about the decision, know that you are in good company, as these are often conflicted times. Scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian or an in-home end of life consult with Twilight Paws can help provide you with a professional assessment of your pet’s condition and provide information and a framework to help guide this decision.

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Can an end-of-life appointment move directly to euthanasia without scheduling another appointment?

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In most cases, yes. I bring the necessary supplies should euthanasia be decided upon. If a relatively brief consult is all that’s needed to determine that it’s time, the appointment can become a euthanasia appointment instead of an end of life consult (and the fee simply changes to the euthanasia appointment fee instead of the consult fee). If the consult is not brief, there is usually still time for the option for euthanasia, and the consult fee is reduced to $50. If the decision to euthanize falls close to the end of the consult appointment time, it’s possible that we’d need to schedule a second appointment.

 

Are you available for euthanasia on short notice? What happens if my pet worsens abruptly before my scheduled appointment?

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While sometimes I am available within an hour or two, and I do my best to accommodate short notice requests, my availability is variable and an emergency house call appointment is unfortunately not a reliable Plan A. Ideally, once you know the time is drawing close, it’s best to schedule a convenient day and time in advance, the better to have an opportunity for a peaceful passing before urgency sets in. Sometimes a situation can change quickly, however, and you are welcome to call and see if I am available. If I am unable to answer the phone or return your call promptly and the situation is urgent, do not hesitate to call your regular veterinarian and/or an ER.

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What species do you work with? 

 

For end of life consults, dogs and cats only.

 

For euthanasias, in addition to dogs and cats, I can also see rabbits, rats, and guinea pigs. Unfortunately no birds, reptiles, amphibians, or hoofed mammals.

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What is your cancellation policy? 

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There is no fee for cancelling up to two hours beforehand. For cancellations with less than two hours notice, there is a $50 cancellation fee, unless Covid is involved (in which case there is no cancellation fee.)

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Should my children be present for an euthanasia?

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This is a very personal decision, and depends on the circumstances–both your own and your child’s. Some parents want to be fully present with their pet and not distracted by caring for their child(ren). Others find that sharing the experience with their kid(s) adds meaning to their own experience in addition to providing the opportunity for their children to be included. In general, I fully support giving children the opportunity to choose whether or not they would like to be part of the appointment, as well as permission to step away at any time. Small children under five may not be able to hold a quiet environment, and if they are home it can be a good idea to plan for a friend or family member to also be present and available to help care for the child while you say goodbye to your pet. 

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Click here for more information about children and pet loss, including developmental stages and grief, and how to talk about dying and euthanasia with your children.

 

My home is a mess. Is that all right?

 

Not to worry! My focus is on you and your pet, not your house. I can assure you, my house is almost never tidy--and much as I would love to point fingers at my three boys and my husband, I’m as big a culprit as any of them.