Frequently Asked Questions
Learn MoreBecause Every Pet Deserves a Peaceful Goodbye
Welcome to our FAQ section, where we address common concerns and questions about our at-home euthanasia services for pets. We understand that this is a difficult time, and our goal is to provide compassionate and dignified care for your beloved animals in the comfort of their own home. Here, you will find information about the process, what to expect, and how we can support you during this challenging period.
General Information
What species do you provide in-home euthanasia for?
The most common species that we help to pass peacefully are dogs and cats. However, we also provide services for a multitude of exotic species, including rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, hamsters and gerbils, chinchillas, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and even fish upon special request. We can also accommodate small livestock species such as chickens, sheep and goats. At this time, we do not offer services for horses.
What areas do you service?
We are based in Cheyenne and provide in-home euthanasia service to most urban and rural areas of southeastern Wyoming and northern Colorado. Some of the cities we service are Cheyenne (including FE Warren Air Force Base), Laramie, Hillsdale, Burns, Carpenter, Albin, Pine Bluffs, Chugwater, Wheatland, and Torrington in Wyoming as well as Wellington, Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Evans, Windsor, Severance, Timnath, Berthoud, Johnstown, Milliken, Longmont, Ault, Pierce, Nunn, Eaton, Livermore, Laporte, Bellvue and Red Feather Lakes in Colorado. Additional fees will apply for extended travel, but we would be more than happy to accommodate you wherever you live.
For a general idea of our fees for your area, please click here.
How far in advance do I need to schedule a home euthanasia appointment?
We recommended scheduling at least a day or two in advance, especially if there is a particular time of day that would work best for you and your pet. However, we do understand that emergencies arise and we do our best to accommodate same-day requests as much as possible. Appointments can be scheduled by phone, text or email!
What forms of payment do you take? When is payment due?
Cash or check are our preferred methods of payment, but we also accept all major credit/debit cards. Payment is due at the time of service, either at the beginning or end of your appointment. We understand that the day of your appointment may be a difficult time to worry about finances, so we are more than happy to accept a credit card payment over the phone ahead of time. We also offer financing options through our partners at CareCredit and Scratchpay. Please see our Pricing page for more information on these financing services.
What are the advantages of in-home euthanasia?
Opting for in-home euthanasia offers several benefits. It allows your beloved pet to pass in the comfort of their own home. The procedure can take place on a favorite couch, bed, or maybe even a sunny spot in the backyard! This approach ensures that your pet experiences their final moments surrounded by loved ones in a familiar environment. In-home euthanasia also allows you to avoid a potentially stressful trip to the veterinary clinic. As your pet gently falls asleep, you can be assured you will have as much time as you need to say your goodbyes. This even offers other pets the opportunity to be present as well.
How can I decide between natural death and euthanasia?
During this difficult time, it is natural to contemplate whether to let your pet pass away naturally or opt for euthanasia. Making this decision involves considering the quality of your pet’s life in their final moments. While this choice may evoke a range of emotions, euthanasia ensures that your pet is relieved of any pain from their disease. The process of in-home euthanasia is specifically designed to promote tranquility and provide a comfortable passing for your beloved companion. May people hope that their pets will pass away naturally when the time is right. However, many pets do not naturally pass away peacefully in their sleep. The experience can be distressing as your pet’s health and quality of life continue to decline. As disease continues to take a toll on their health, many pets lose significant amounts of weight, discontinue eating and may begin vomiting or having diarrhea. For this reason, many pet owners choose euthanasia to help their pets transition peacefully. Instead of viewing euthanasia as shortening your pet’s life, it can be seen as relieving them from undue suffering and minimizing the duration of their discomfort.
How do I know if it is time to consider euthanasia?
This can be a very hard decision to make. Your pet’s quality of life is the best objective measure of when the best time to consider euthanasia is. Generally, if your pet is unable or unwilling to do the things they used to love, this is a good indicator that their quality of life has declined significantly. As we do not want you to have to make this decision alone, we provide unlimited phone or text consultations at no charge to ensure that you are making the best decision for yourself and your companion.
For more information, please click here.
Do you offer consultations to help decide if it's time to euthanize?
We understand what a difficult decision it is to say goodbye to a friend. We offer free unlimited phone or text consultations to help you determine your pet’s quality of life. Although we recommend maintaining a relationship with your primary veterinarian, in-person examinations can also be performed. For in-person consultation pricing, please click here.
Deciding on Euthanasia
Preparation for Euthanasia
How do I prepare for in-home euthanasia?
Making your pet comfortable and spending quality time with them is the only thing you need to do to prepare for in-home euthanasia. A final meal of their favorite treat can be a great way to celebrate their life! Prior to your appointment, we recommend finding a spot in your home or yard where your pet will be most comfortable. We provide all supplies, including soft blankets and potty pads to protect your home from any accidents.
If you choose cremation, we will make the necessary transportation arrangements.
We also take the responsibility of notifying your primary veterinarian, sparing you the challenge of making that difficult call during this emotional time. If there is anybody else you feel should be aware of your pet’s passing, we are happy to notify them as well.
Where should euthanasia take place?
The in-home euthanasia process can take place anywhere in your home where both you and your pet feel comfortable. This could be a sunny spot by the window, a cozy area in your living room, under a favorite tree in the backyard, or any other place where your pet can relax.
Should children be present for euthanasia?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to have children present during the euthanasia procedure is one that should be made as a family. Whatever choice you make, honesty and open communication will be crucial in managing your child’s experience. Younger children may not completely understand the process that is taking place. Older children may choose to say their goodbyes beforehand or may desire to see your pet after the procedure to say a final goodbye. We have found that involving children in the end-of-life decision making process as much as possible can be a valuable lesson in helping them to process loss and grief.
Should other pets be present for euthanasia?
In our experience, other household pets often benefit from being present during the euthanasia process to say goodbye, just like any other family member. Most pets seem to understand what is happening and will sit quietly and attentively, honoring the process much like you do. If you believe your pet may disrupt the process, they can be placed in another room and allowed to say their goodbyes once their companion has passed. Allowing pets to see and smell their friend seems to allow for closure, which is essential in the grieving process.
Can I feed my pet or give medications before euthanasia?
If your pet is still eating, you can offer them their favorite treats or a meal. In rare cases, nausea may occur after sedation, but it is generally related to your pet’s underlying condition rather than the treats or meal they enjoyed. Usually, the only medications we recommend giving on the day of euthanasia are “comfort medications”, such as prescribed pain relievers or anti-nausea medications as they will not interfere with the euthanasia process.
How long does an in-home euthanasia appointment take?
The entire process can be completed in as short as 20-30 minutes, or it can go as long as 60 minutes. Your appointment is about you and your pet. We will walk you through each step of the process and ensure that you have enough time to say goodbye to your beloved friend.
What can I expect to happen medically during the euthanasia process?
Once everybody has settled in and gotten comfortable, the first step of the euthanasia process will be to give your pet a shot of a sedative and painkiller. This is generally given under the skin and feels much like a regular vaccine. The sedative will take 5-10 minutes on average to help your pet fall into a gentle sleep. Once your companion is nice and relaxed, a second medication will be given. This medication will be given via the best route for your pet’s individual condition. This is most commonly through a vein in their leg or in their abdomen. This medication is an overdose of an anesthetic and will work to help your pet fall into an even deeper sleep – much like if they were being anesthetized for a surgery. After losing complete consciousness, this medication will stop your pet’s breathing and heartbeat.
For more information on the complete process, please click here.
Is euthanasia painful?
In-home euthanasia is designed to be as peaceful and stress-free for your pet as possible. Every euthanasia procedure begins by giving your pet an injection of a sedative and painkiller. Although care is used to give this injection as gently as possible, it may sting slightly in some cases. After several minutes, this injection will allow your pet to relax into a gentle sleep, allowing the rest of the procedure to be free of any pain, fear or discomfort.
Will you be able to find a vein if my pet's blood pressure is low?
It is not uncommon for older, sick pets to have poor blood pressure or fragile veins. Other medical conditions such as heart failure or kidney disease can also further complicate finding a vein. The sedative your pet receives is carefully chosen to not only help them relax, but also to help sustain their blood pressure. However, in some cases, a vein in the leg may not be able to be located or used. A vein in the abdomen can be used in these cases, once your pet is sleeping soundly. Your pet will not feel any pain or distress from this method, and will pass just as peacefully.
How can you tell that my pet has passed?
There are multiple ways that we can be absolutely sure that your pet has passed, such as the absence of breathing, a heartbeat or a blink reflex (corneal reflex) when the eye is gently touched. The absence of blood flow can also be confirmed by your pet’s gums becoming pale or by the loss of normal pulse felt on their hind legs.
Can my pet sense that I am with them during the process?
Absolutely. Your pet will undoubtedly feel your gentle affection and hear your soothing voice as the process begins. They will likely take as much comfort in your presence as you do in theirs. Once the sedative is administered, however, your pet will gradually lose consciousness. This means they will no longer be aware of what is happening around them. The last thing your pet will experience is the loving goodbye you share with them. You may take as much time as you need with your pet fully awake before the sedative is given.
Do I have to stay during the euthanasia?
You may leave at any point during the euthanasia process. Some prefer to say their goodbyes before the sedative is given and then opt to go into a different room, or even leave the house altogether. Others may want to leave before any medications are given and come back once their pet is deceased to have a final viewing. We are happy to accommodate whatever you believe is right for you.
During the Euthanasia Process
Aftercare
What can I expect after my pet passes away?
After your pet passes away, it is not uncommon for them to urinate or defecate, take a final breath, twitch, or keep their eyes partially open. These are all natural occurrences, and your pet will not experience any pain or awareness during these functions. A potty pad will be provided to minimize any mess, and your pet’s eyes can be permanently closed upon request. To confirm death, our veterinarian will check for the absence of a heartbeat and reflexes.
Will you take my pet’s body with you after the appointment?
If you opt for one of our cremation services, we are happy to transport your companion’s body after the appointment. A stretcher will be provided for ease of moving larger pets. A second set of hands is appreciated for moving pets larger than 40 lbs. Your beloved friend will be transported to Lasting Paws Pet Memorial Services in Johnstown, CO. If you prefer, you may also make independent arrangements with any local crematory of your choosing.
How long will the cremation process take? How do I get their ashes back?
It will generally take 1 to 1.5 weeks for your pet to be cremated. For clients in Cheyenne, your pet’s ashes can be delivered to your primary vet for you to pick up at your convenience. Clients further out in Laramie County or in surrounding areas of Wyoming may pick up their pet’s ashes in Cheyenne during designated pick up times (Tuesdays 9am and Thursdays 5pm). Clients in Northern Colorado may find it more convenient to pick up ashes directly from Lasting Paws’ crematory in Johnstown. Please reach out to us for address and directions. Ashes can also be mailed or delivered back to your home for an additional fee.
How do I know I am getting my own pet's ashes back?
During a private cremation, your pet is placed individually in the cremation chamber with no other animals. Therefore, you can rest assured that the resulting ashes belong solely to your companion. We utilize a web-based tracking system to identify and trace your pet through each step of the transportation and cremation process. This allows complete transparency to ensure that you receive your pet’s (and ONLY your pet’s) ashes back. If you would like an added level of assurance that the ashes receive belong only to your pet, you may also arrange to be present on-site during your pet’s cremation in a special viewing room. For more information about this special viewing, please contact us or Lasting Paws Pet Memorial Services.
Should I choose cremation or aquamation for my pet? What are the differences?
Both flame-based cremation and aquamation are great ways to preserve the memory of your pet. Both processes will allow the recovery of ashes that can be kept, buried or spread. Cremation uses very high heat (upwards of 1800° F) to reduce your pet’s body to bone that is further broken down to ash. This ash can range in color from dark grey to white. Aquamation uses hot water and an alkaline (basic) chemical called potassium hydroxide to reduce your pet’s body to bone. Similarly, the remaining bones are processed into ash. Aquamated ash is generally white in color with a slight green tint from the alkali used. Additionally, aquamated ash will have a faint chemical smell, whereas cremated ash is scentless. You will receive more of your pet’s ashes back with aquamation than cremation. On average, cremation will produce ashes equivalent to 3-4% of your pet’s total body weight, whereas aquamation will produce ashes equivalent to 18-20% of their body weight. From an ecological outlook, aquamation uses 90% fewer total fossil fuels than cremation. Aquamation, however, does produce very alkaline wastewater that must be neutralized before it can be discharged back to the water treatment facility. Citric acid is used to bring the pH of this water from around 13 back down to 10-11 to avoid corrosion to pipes. Each process is different and choosing one is a personal decision. Either way, you can ensure that your companion’s legacy lives on.
My pet passed away naturally. Will you pick them up for cremation?
Yes, we would be more than happy to assist you with transporting your companion to the crematory during this difficult time.
Do you offer any keepsakes for me to remember my pet?
A complimentary clay paw print is included with every euthanasia appointment. Fur clippings, and ink paw or nose prints are also available upon request! If you choose to have your pet cremated, you may select one of seven standard urns to have their ashes returned in. Additional urns, pendants, jewelry and other keepsakes are available from Lasting Paws Pet Memorial Services.
Will my other pets mourn the loss of their friend?
Many times, animals will appear to “grieve” in their own way. Loss of appetite, lethargy, wandering, and clingy behavior can all be signs that your other pet is mourning for their lost companion, especially if they were very close. These signs may be more pronounced if your other animals do not have the chance to see the deceased pet. If possible, we highly recommend allowing your other animals a chance to view/smell the body after the euthanasia procedure. Any signs of mourning will generally fade over time as your remaining pets adjust to a new routine.