A simple guide to what you can expect when saying goodbye.
Euthanasia & Aftercare
What Is Euthanasia?
Euthanasia is a peaceful, painless way to help a pet who is suffering. Your pet is given a gentle sedation first, so they are relaxed and comfortable. The final medication helps them pass quietly.
You can stay with your pet for as much or as little time as you need.
Who Will Be Caring For You?
Your pet and your family will be supported by our doctors and technicians.
What Will Happen During The Visit
1. A private room
You and your pet will be welcomed into a quiet, private space made for this purpose. You may take your time. There is no schedule you must follow.
2. Talking with your team
A trained team member will walk you through what will happen, explain each step, and answer questions about the process.
If you would like to speak with a doctor about your pet’s medical condition or quality of life before making a decision, that requires an exam. You can request this at any time if you are unsure about timing or want medical guidance before deciding.
3. Treats, comforts, and choice
If your pet is able to enjoy them safely, we can offer treats or favorite snacks during their goodbye. You may hold your pet, sit with them, or simply be in the room.
If you do not want to be in the room during euthanasia, that is completely okay. We will care for your pet with the same gentleness and respect.
4. Sedation
Your pet receives a calming medication so they are relaxed and comfortable. Most pets fall asleep gently in your arms or on soft bedding
5. Euthanasia medication
Once your pet is fully relaxed, the final medication is given. It works quickly and painlessly.
6. Time after the goodbye
You may stay with your pet for as long as you need. We will check on you quietly unless you ask for help.
Aftercare Options
We will talk with you about what you would like to do after
your pet has passed. You may choose:
Our local cremation providers offer private, semiprivate, and communal cremation.
- Private cremation means a pet is cremated by themselves and their ashes are returned to you.
- Semi-private cremation means a pet is cremated at the same time as other pets, in a separate compartment, and their ashes are returned to you.
- Communal cremation means a pet is cremated with other pets and their ashes are spread in a location maintained by the cremation provider.
You may also take your pet’s body home.
If You Are Unsure About Timing
If you are not certain whether it is time, you may request an exam and speak with a doctor about:
- Comfort and pain
- Appetite and behavior
- Breathing and mobility
- Overall quality of life
This conversation can help you understand what your pet is experiencing.
If Your Pet Passes Naturally At Home
Please contact one of our local aftercare resources:
Pets at Peace Memorial & Cremation Service
1401 Empire Blvd, Webster, NY 14580
Phone: 585-706-1706
Pet Passages
348 NY-104, Ontario, NY 14519
Phone: 585-265-9933
Rush Inter Pet
139 Rush West Rush Road, Rush, NY 14543
Phone: 585-533-1685
Cost Information
We will tell you the cost of euthanasia and aftercare before anything is done. You will not need to review a full estimate. If finances are a concern, please tell us so we can talk through options with you.
Grief Support & Resources
Grief does not end when the visit is over.
We offer:
- A small grief library in our comfort space
- Follow-up support and resource information
- You may request to speak with our Client Advocate for grief support. Please email jennifers@rocemergencyvet.com to request a time to talk.
You can request support at any time, during or after your visit.
