Note: Our preferred way to communicate is through email. Please allow 1-2 business days for us to respond to your requests.

NOW OPEN!

We are proud to announce our new clinic location is now open.
119-3851 Manchester Rd SE → Clinic Tour

We will continue to provide in-home pet euthanasia services.

In-Home Pet Euthanasia in Calgary

We are here for you during this difficult decision.

Pet Euthanasia
Quality of Life Assessment

Compassionate in-home pet euthanasia

This will be the most difficult decision you will make in your pet’s life, but we can help. Oftentimes, the emotions, stress, and anxiety can be overwhelming for a family. Many of us hope our pets will pass away peacefully on their own, but this is generally not how it happens. We at Calgary Family Vet can provide a calm and gentle passing when the time is best. Our team provides in-home veterinary care in Calgary to ensure that your pet is where they feel most comfortable – home.

Why choose in-home pet euthanasia?

Choosing in-home euthanasia allows your pet to spend their final moments in the comfort of their home surrounded by their family.

  • Pets are more comfortable in their own setting
  • Less overall stress and anxiety for you and your pet
  • Your pet can relax surrounded by their favourite blankets, toys, and familiar smells
  • Your pet can spend their final moments in your arms, in their bed, or in a favourite spot, be it inside or out.

In-home euthanasia is also more comfortable for you, the owner.

  • No stressful car ride to the vet, no distractions of a busy hospital
  • You can relax in the privacy and comfort of your home – when you are more relaxed, your pet will be more relaxed.
  • In-home euthanasia allows as many family members and other pets to attend
  • No huddling around in a small room at the vet’s office
  • You can set your own atmosphere at home with candles, pictures, music, poem readings, etc.

Request an In-home Pet Euthanasia

We want to make one of the most difficult days you will have, go smoothly. To serve you better we have created a request form so you can ask any questions you might have about the process or share your concerns. The form also provides us with all the pertinent information we need to give you a quote. That quote includes the cost for the in-home euthanasia procedure, pet transport, and cremation services.

To request an in-home pet euthanasia appointment with Dr. Lopez please complete the form below:

Pet Euthanasia Form

Frequently Asked Questions

How will I know it's time to euthanize my pet?

This is the most common question we get and also the most difficult to answer as there are many factors that influence this decision.

Simply put, when your pet is suffering or struggling, euthanasia is a gift.

We may never find the “right” time to let our pets go, but we can consider when the “best” time would be.

Please contact us to book your pet’s quality of life assessment appointment to help determine whether euthanasia is the right decision for your pet.

What should I expect with in-home euthanasia?

As this is already a difficult time for you and your family, knowing what to expect when we visit your home can help ease the stress and anxiety.

  • Your pet will first receive an injection by a veterinarian in the muscle or under the skin that will offer pain control and heavy sedation – this will take around 10–15 minutes before your pet is sedated.
  • Once you and your pet are ready, the veterinarian will administer the euthanasia medication, which is an overdose of an anesthetic that will slow then stop the heart.
  • Depending on your pet’s size and condition, this medication will be delivered either by a vein in the leg or by a vein in the abdomen.
  • Your pet will pass away peacefully within minutes and the veterinarian will confirm that the heart has stopped.
  • The veterinarian will gently prepare your pet’s body for transport (assistance will be required to move any pets over 30lbs).
  • Special arrangements can be made for large or giant breed dogs if assistance is unavailable.
How long will the appointment last?
The entire appointment can last anywhere from 30 – 45 minutes.
Should other pets be there?
Pets grieve, too, in their own way. In-home euthanasia allows as many other pets and housemates to be a part of this process. They will “know” their friend has passed on, and this is a time for them to say goodbye as well.
Should my children be there?

This is best decided as a family.

Children express grief differently than adults, and their response to grief can vary based on their age and level of understanding of death and loss.

Be open and honest with your children about your pet’s illness and death and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible.

If children do not wish to be present for euthanasia, perhaps they could read a poem or share pictures or stories of their pet beforehand.

They may wish to view the pet’s body afterward for closure and a final goodbye.

Involve your children in memorializing your pet – this can include anything from making a shadow box to holding a celebration of life service.

Private vs General Cremation?
A private cremation means you are requesting to have your pet’s ashes back. You will have memorial options available between a bag (which is typically selected when wanting to scatter your pet’s ashes) and a wooden box or urn to house your pet’s remains.

General cremation means you do not want your pet’s ashes back.

Quality of Life Assessment

If you are unsure if your pet is ready for euthanasia, you can book a quality of life assessment appointment, and Dr. Lopez will help you determine what the right decision for your pet is at this time. 

To request an in-home quality of life assessment appointment please fill out the form below:

Quality of Life Assessment Form
Other resources: