Aurora Animal Care Center is here to support you through all stages of your pet’s life. End-of-life care for your pet brings about both difficult and emotional decisions. We know our pets are family members too. When it's time say goodbye, the resulting sense of loss and grief is as real and overwhelming as when we lose a relative or friend.
When a disease has taken its toll on your pet, and the knowledge and skills of the veterinary professionals can no longer alleviate the pain and suffering, we can provide a peaceful and dignified end to that suffering; humane euthanasia. At our appointments, the veterinary staff will discuss with you what you are seeing and thoroughly examine your pet. We will then have a conversation about your options and your wishes for your pet’s quality of life – which is what is most important. We cannot make the decision for you, but we will give you the information necessary to help you make a very difficult choice.
If you are trying to pre-plan or work together as a family to assess your pet's quality of life, Lap of Love is a resource to use to help you though this time and determine where your pet is currently.
What To Expect
The word “euthanasia” means peaceful death. As the only medical professional licensed to perform this most important procedure, we respectfully utilize the technical and medical skills associated with ending the life of a beloved family member.
We here at the Aurora Animal Care Center understand that this is never an easy decision to make. If you feel it may be time but have questions, we can schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians to consult with and discuss the tough decisions ahead.
The Appointment
When the time comes, our veterinary staff will strive to make the process as peaceful and gentle as they can for not only your pet but also for you.
We provide a variety of compassionate services to help you through this process. The entire procedure will be explained in person by the veterinarian, according to your interest level and comfort.
- The veterinarian can discuss with you any concerns, thoughts, or questions surrounding euthanasia that you may have. Feel free to ask questions if needed.
- Everything will be done at the pace that you and your pet dictate. There is never any rush.
- The actual procedure is quite simple and peaceful; except under extreme or emergent circumstances, an injection is given to ensure your pet is comfortable. The injection is a mild sedative to help ease any discomfort; you deserve one last memory of your pet calm and comfortable.
- Once you and your pet are ready, the final euthanasia medication is given, usually intravenously. It works very rapidly, only seconds in most cases.
- The veterinarian will then confirm that your pet has passed on. After, you may continue to spend as much time as you need.
- Memorial keepsakes can be collected as a complimentary service such as an ink paw print or lock of fur.
Private Cremation
We provide private cremation service for families who wish to keep the remains of their pet. Your pet will receive an individual cremation with its remains carefully packaged and returned to you in an urn of your choice. The ashes will be available for pick-up 7 to 10 business days after your pet is brought to our facilities.
Communal Cremation
For those who do not wish to keep the remains of their pet, communal cremation services are available, with your pet's ashes spread on the grounds of Trusted Journey.
