Having a pet brings great joy to most families, but the fact is that we most-often outlive our pets.  The time may come when your pet's quality of life is such that the most kind and loving thing that you can do for them is to put them to rest in a loving and humane fashion.  The good news is that with all of the advancements in veterinary medicine, pets are living quality lives for more years than ever before.

A common phrase that a veterinary professional uses with a pet owner who is wondering when it is time for euthanasia is, "you will know."  Nothing could be more true.  You, as your pet's primary care-giver and companion, will know when your pet's quality of life is compromised.  We invite you to discuss with our doctors if there is anything that can be done medically to sustain or improve your pet's health and life.*

Once a decision has been reached to euthanize a pet, an appointment is made with a doctor.  We understand the difficulty of making a decision such as this and we accommodate clients on short notice in regard to this matter.  You may or may not choose to stay with your pet.  It is entirely up to you.  We do recommend that the paperwork and payment transaction be handled prior to the euthanasia; this allows you to stay with your pet as long as you wish and to leave the office directly from the exam room without having to wait in the reception area after an emotional goodbye.

Please see Euthanasia; your questions answered for further details about the procedure and what happens next.

*There may be certain circumstances in which a medical exam is indicated prior to euthanasia. The doctors at Barrington Oaks reserve the right to refuse the service on the basis that it be a, young or otherwise, healthy pet in which significant efforts have not been made either medically and/or behaviorally.

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