End of Life Care

The end of life is a difficult time for us all. You are losing a beloved family member, and we are losing a patient we have bonded with, often having known them since their puppy or kitten visits. At Full Circle Veterinary Alternatives, we see a disproportionate number of elderly and complex conditions where conversations about easing the suffering of your pet may be needed.

Our veterinarians have the responsibility of advising you and helping through a decision to humanely end the life of a seriously ill pet. Often the end of life care is provided by your conventional veterinarian. However, we do perform humane euthanasia as needed.

Euthanasia is the process of administering an overdose of a powerful anesthetic agent, so a patient loses consciousness quickly and painlessly before the heart stops, and life ceases.

Ultimately deciding the right time to say goodbye to your friend will be up to you. Usually, you can tell that your pet is seriously ill or is having more bad days than good. Some guidelines to consider when looking at health and quality of life are dramatic weight loss, extreme disinterest in life, loss of appetite, or consciousness, and reluctance to perform or complete avoidance of once favourite activities. Your veterinary team will help you identify if the situation can be rectified or if humane euthanasia is recommended.

Your pets remains can be cremated at a local animal crematorium after euthanasia. Some caregivers wish to have the ashes returned for private ceremonies. Our front office care team will help you pick an urn and arrange this service.