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End of Life Pet Care

We are here to help your family during this difficult time.

When a pet’s quality of life deteriorates to the point where they experience more bad days than good days, you may be faced with the difficult decision regarding whether to choose euthanasia.

The same way we provide compassionate care for pets in their early days, we’re prepared to support you and provide end of life care for them during their last. As partners in your pet’s health, we’ll make sure you’re informed about all potential treatment options before you make a decision. We understand that making that kind of choice is never easy, but we promise to be there every step of the way. 

Should you decide euthanasia is the right choice for your pet, we’ll prepare you for the process and answer any questions you may have about what’s going to happen. We hope you’ll find some comfort knowing our humane methods will ensure your pet is laid to rest peacefully.  

Euthanasia at Hampstead Animal Hospital 

We know how difficult it is to make the decision to put your family member to rest, and we are here to help you by giving you information and support so that when the time arrives, you can focus on what matters most - your family. 

What to expect 

When you arrive for your appointment, park on the right side of the building. Give us a call from the parking lot letting us know that you are here and we will direct you to the proper door to enter. 

Once in the exam room, a team member will discuss with you how you would like us to care for your pet’s remains. There are a few options to choose from. You can have your pet privately cremated in which your pet will be returned to you in an urn. If you decide not to have your pet’s ashes back, we offer a communal cremation. And of course, if you would like to take your pet with you to bury at home, that is also an option. 

If you decide to have your pet privately cremated, we will show you four urn options for you to choose from. We will call you when your pet’s remains are returned. This process usually takes less than two weeks. 

Once we have all your wishes, we will have you sign a form permitting us to euthanize your pet. At this time we will ask for payment. We will then ask if you would like to be present for the euthanasia. We know this is a very hard time and every pet owner is different in what they choose to do. If you would like to remain with your pet, a medical team member will bring your pet to the treatment area to place a catheter. This ensures that the medication goes directly into your pet’s bloodstream. Once the catheter is placed, we will bring your pet back to the exam room. At this time you can let us know if you are ready for the doctor or if you need more time. When ready, the veterinarian will administer an injection via your pet’s catheter, and they will experience a tired, relaxing, falling asleep feeling. The doctor will confirm that your pet is at peace. Take the time you need before you depart. 

Losing a pet is one of the most difficult things a person can go through, and it’s important that you have support when you leave our office. Below are some resources that are available to you. 

Coping with Pet Loss

Pets are family and losing them comes with the same grief as any other loss. If you’re struggling with grief following the loss of your pet, remember to:

  • Give yourself time to mourn and cry 
  • Do your best to stick to your regular routine
  • Talk about your feelings with family, friends, or even our hospital staff
  • Memorialize your pet in a way that’s special to you 

You can use these resources if you need additional support:

Please reach out to us at (603) 329-7825 if there’s anything we can do for you.

Pet Euthanasia