Understanding Euthanasia
Euthanasia means “good death.” Our goal is to give as many pets as possible the comfortable, low-stress passing they deserve once they reach the end of their life. Embassy Veterinary Center offers a gentle, painless experience for pets, and all the respect and privacy pet families need when saying goodbye. The process involves sedating the pet first so they fall asleep peacefully and feel no stress or discomfort. Only after that, and with the owner’s permission, will we move forward with the euthanasia.
At our Westland and Land 'O Lakes locations, we offer a dedicated room with a private entrance and exit to give you additional privacy and comfort during this difficult time.
Signs to Know When It’s Time
Knowing when it’s time to consider euthanasia can be incredibly difficult. Here are some key quality-of-life indicators to discuss with your veterinarian:
Pain and Discomfort
Persistent pain that cannot be managed with medication or therapy.
Mobility Issues
Difficulty moving, walking, or getting up.
Appetite Loss
Significant reduction in appetite or complete refusal to eat.
Disinterest in Life
Lack of interest in favorite activities, toys, or interactions.
Hiding Behavior
Seeking solitude or hiding away more than usual.
If you observe these signs, consult with our team to discuss your pet’s health and quality of life. We are here to provide all the guidance and support you need.
Aftercare Services
Embassy Veterinary Center offers a range of services to help you and your family through the process with dignity and compassion.
Paw Prints & Clay Impressions
We offer the option to create a paw print or a clay impression of your pet’s paw as a keepsake, allowing you to cherish their memory forever.
Urns & Memorial Items
Choose from various urns and memorial items, including photo frames, engraved plaques, and memorial stones, to honor your pet’s memory in a personalized way.
Locks of Fur
We can trim a lock of your pet’s fur for you to keep as a memento.
Cremation Options
We provide both communal and private cremation services:
- Communal Cremation: Pets are cremated together, and ashes are not returned
- Private Cremation: Your pet is cremated individually, and their ashes are returned to you.
Sympathy Cart
We also have a sympathy cart available at select clinics only, which includes:
- Comfort Items: Soft blankets or towels for you and your pet.
- Tissues: For emotional support.
- Candles or Soothing Lighting: To create a calming atmosphere.
- Mementos: Keepsakes like fur clippings and sympathy cards.
- Information and Resources: Brochures on pet loss support groups, grief counseling services, and literature on coping with pet loss.
- Treats: Baggies of canine and feline-specific treats.
- Wildflower Seed Satchels: Plant in honor of your pet.
If you need to discuss euthanasia for your pet, please contact Embassy Veterinary Center in Knoxville, TN, or Tampa, FL. Our caring team is here to support you and ensure your pet’s final moments are filled with love and peace.