vet care for a variety of animals

When it comes time for your veterinarian to euthanize your pet, you'll need to decide whether you want this appointment to take place at your local animal clinic or in your home. There are benefits to each environment, but many families feel that the familiar surroundings and privacy of home can be good for both them and their pets. Many veterinarians perform at-home euthanasia appointments, so you can contact the clinic and set up a date and time. In the period before the veterinarian arrives, here are some things that you can do to prepare. 

Choose A Location

It's important to put some careful thought into choosing an appropriate location for your pet's euthanasia. One way to approach this decision is to think about the areas of your home in which your pet feels comfortable. In a larger home with lots of rooms, your pet may have its own room that holds its bed and some toys. This familiar space may thus be suitable. There are pros and cons to virtually every other area of your home, so you'll need to come up with a spot in which you feel the pros outweigh the cons.

Prepare The Area

Once you've identified the area in which the appointment will take place, you may want to prepare it to some degree. Having some of your pet's favorite toys and blankets nearby may provide comfort. Depending on the animal's level of appetite, you might even think about having a few of its favorite snacks nearby. You should also think about your family's comfort and consider what things you want to have available. A box of tissues will likely be necessary, and it's better to have the box handy instead of having to go look for it once the veterinarian arrives.

Spend Some Quality Time

When possible, it's nice if you can spend some quality family time with your pet in the hours prior to its euthanasia. Your pet probably won't have much energy if it's quite sick or very elderly, but your family can still enjoy spending time with the animal. Even just sitting around the pet and taking turns gently stroking it can make this time pleasant for the animal and special for each of you. In the case of a dog that has a little more energy, a family walk through the pet's favorite park might be a nice activity to do together.