WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR VISIT
We've gathered everything you may want to know before your appointment, whether you're coming to our Comfort Center
or we're meeting you at home.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR VISIT
We've gathered everything you may want to know before your appointment, whether you're coming to our Comfort Center
or we're meeting you at home.
KNOWING WHAT TO EXPECT CAN HELP
There’s a lot to think about when you’re preparing to say goodbye. Below, we’ve answered the questions families ask us most, from preparing for your appointment and what happens during euthanasia to aftercare and who can be there with you.
KNOWING WHAT TO EXPECT CAN HELP
There’s a lot to think about when you’re preparing to say goodbye. Below, we’ve answered the questions families ask us most, from preparing for your appointment and what happens during euthanasia to aftercare and who can be there with you.
KNOWING WHAT TO EXPECT CAN HELP
There’s a lot to think about when you’re preparing to say goodbye. Below, we’ve answered the questions families ask us most, from preparing for your appointment and what happens during euthanasia to aftercare and who can be there with you.
BEFORE YOUR VISIT
Whether you’re coming to our Comfort Center or we’re coming to your home, here are a few things that may help you prepare for your appointment.
How should I prepare for an in-home appointment?
There’s nothing special you need to do to prepare. We’ll take care of every detail so you can simply focus on being with your pet. Choose the place where your pet is most comfortable, whether that’s their bed, the couch, a favorite spot outside, or wherever they naturally want to be.
Can my pet eat or take their medications before the appointment?
Yes. In most cases, there is no need to withhold food, water, or your pet’s regular medications before a euthanasia appointment unless our veterinary team has specifically asked you to. If your pet still enjoys eating, favorite foods and extra treats are absolutely welcome.
What if I need to change or reschedule the appointment?
You can change your appointment if you need to. Sometimes a pet’s condition changes unexpectedly, and sometimes a family simply needs a little more time. Email, call, or text us at careteam@honor.pet or 323-515-1234, and we’ll help you make any changes.
If I’m coming to the Comfort Center, where do I park and what happens when I arrive?
Free parking is available on the street and in our parking lot on the south side of the building. Your confirmation email also includes a map to help you find us. When you arrive, a member of our team will greet you and bring you directly to your private Comfort Room. If your pet needs help getting from the car into the Comfort Center, just let us know. We’ll be happy to come out and assist you.
What should I bring to the Comfort Center?
You don’t need to bring anything for the appointment itself. We’ll have everything we need to care for you and your pet. If there’s something your pet especially loves, you’re welcome to bring it along, such as a favorite blanket, toy, or treats. You can also bring anything you’d like to have with you as part of your goodbye. Other pets, friends, and family are always welcome.
What if my pet is anxious, reactive, or difficult to handle?
Please let us know ahead of time about anything that will help us understand how your pet likes to be approached or handled. Some pets are nervous around new people, protective of certain parts of their body, or simply do not like being touched. Knowing this in advance helps us prepare and adjust how we approach the appointment and how sedation is given, so we can make things as comfortable and low-stress as possible for your pet.
BEFORE YOUR VISIT
Whether you’re coming to our Comfort Center or we’re coming to your home, here are a few things that may help you prepare for your appointment.
How should I prepare for an in-home appointment?
There’s nothing special you need to do to prepare. We’ll take care of every detail so you can simply focus on being with your pet. Choose the place where your pet is most comfortable, whether that’s their bed, the couch, a favorite spot outside, or wherever they naturally want to be.
Can my pet eat or take their medications before the appointment?
Yes. In most cases, there is no need to withhold food, water, or your pet’s regular medications before a euthanasia appointment unless our veterinary team has specifically asked you to. If your pet still enjoys eating, favorite foods and extra treats are absolutely welcome.
What if I need to change or reschedule the appointment?
You can change your appointment if you need to. Sometimes a pet’s condition changes unexpectedly, and sometimes a family simply needs a little more time. Email, call, or text us at careteam@honor.pet or 323-515-1234, and we’ll help you make any changes.
If I’m coming to the Comfort Center, where do I park and what happens when I arrive?
Free parking is available on the street and in our parking lot on the south side of the building. Your confirmation email also includes a map to help you find us. When you arrive, a member of our team will greet you and bring you directly to your private Comfort Room. If your pet needs help getting from the car into the Comfort Center, just let us know. We’ll be happy to come out and assist you.
What should I bring to the Comfort Center?
You don’t need to bring anything for the appointment itself. We’ll have everything we need to care for you and your pet. If there’s something your pet especially loves, you’re welcome to bring it along, such as a favorite blanket, toy, or treats. You can also bring anything you’d like to have with you as part of your goodbye. Other pets, friends, and family are always welcome.
What if my pet is anxious, reactive, or difficult to handle?
Please let us know ahead of time about anything that will help us understand how your pet likes to be approached or handled. Some pets are nervous around new people, protective of certain parts of their body, or simply do not like being touched. Knowing this in advance helps us prepare and adjust how we approach the appointment and how sedation is given, so we can make things as comfortable and low-stress as possible for your pet.
BEFORE YOUR VISIT
Whether you’re coming to our Comfort Center or we’re coming to your home, here are a few things that may help you prepare for your appointment.
How should I prepare for an in-home appointment?
There’s nothing special you need to do to prepare. We’ll take care of every detail so you can simply focus on being with your pet. Choose the place where your pet is most comfortable, whether that’s their bed, the couch, a favorite spot outside, or wherever they naturally want to be.
Can my pet eat or take their medications before the appointment?
Yes. In most cases, there is no need to withhold food, water, or your pet’s regular medications before a euthanasia appointment unless our veterinary team has specifically asked you to. If your pet still enjoys eating, favorite foods and extra treats are absolutely welcome.
What if I need to change or reschedule the appointment?
You can change your appointment if you need to. Sometimes a pet’s condition changes unexpectedly, and sometimes a family simply needs a little more time. Email, call, or text us at careteam@honor.pet or 323-515-1234, and we’ll help you make any changes.
If I’m coming to the Comfort Center, where do I park and what happens when I arrive?
Free parking is available on the street and in our parking lot on the south side of the building. Your confirmation email also includes a map to help you find us. When you arrive, a member of our team will greet you and bring you directly to your private Comfort Room. If your pet needs help getting from the car into the Comfort Center, just let us know. We’ll be happy to come out and assist you.
What should I bring to the Comfort Center?
You don’t need to bring anything for the appointment itself. We’ll have everything we need to care for you and your pet. If there’s something your pet especially loves, you’re welcome to bring it along, such as a favorite blanket, toy, or treats. You can also bring anything you’d like to have with you as part of your goodbye. Other pets, friends, and family are always welcome.
What if my pet is anxious, reactive, or difficult to handle?
Please let us know ahead of time about anything that will help us understand how your pet likes to be approached or handled. Some pets are nervous around new people, protective of certain parts of their body, or simply do not like being touched. Knowing this in advance helps us prepare and adjust how we approach the appointment and how sedation is given, so we can make things as comfortable and low-stress as possible for your pet.
THE APPOINTMENT
What to expect during your appointment, from the first few minutes through the time you have together afterward.
What happens when the appointment begins?
We’ll start by getting you and your pet settled, whether we’re meeting you at home or in one of our Comfort Rooms. Your veterinarian will talk through what will happen, answer any questions you still have, and give you time to get comfortable before we begin. There is no need to rush through these first few minutes.
How is my pet sedated?
Sedation is always given before the euthanasia medication. Your veterinarian will give a small injection, usually under the skin or into a muscle. Your pet may notice a brief pinch or sting from the injection, but within several minutes they will become very sleepy and then deeply sedated. We wait until your pet is fully relaxed and unaware before moving to the next step.
What actually happens during euthanasia?
Once your pet is fully sedated and no longer aware of what is happening, your veterinarian will give the euthanasia medication. This medication causes breathing and the heart to stop. Because your pet is already deeply sedated, they are not aware of or experiencing this part of the procedure. Your veterinarian will listen to your pet’s heart afterward and let you know when they have died.
Will my pet feel pain?
A medium-length answer that giveThe only discomfort some pets may experience is a brief pinch or sting from the sedation injection. Most pets have little to no reaction, though how they respond can depend on their temperament, how ill they’re feeling, and any discomfort they may already be experiencing. After the sedation takes effect, your pet is deeply asleep and unaware. They will not feel the euthanasia medication or know that it is being given. Comfort is our priority throughout the entire appointment, and we’ll always adjust our approach based on what your pet needs.
Is there anything I might see after my pet dies?
There are a few normal physical changes that can happen when the body dies, and knowing about them ahead of time can make them less surprising. Your pet’s eyes will usually remain open. You may also see a deeper breath or two, a small muscle movement or twitch, or release of urine or stool. These are normal reflexes and changes in the body after death. They do not mean your pet is conscious or uncomfortable. Your veterinarian will be right there and can explain anything you notice.
How long does the appointment take?
Most appointments last about 45 minutes to an hour. The medical portion itself is relatively short. Most of the appointment is spent talking, getting your pet comfortable, and giving you time together before and after the euthanasia. There is no expectation that you move through the appointment at a particular pace.
Will I have time with my pet afterward?
Yes. Appointments are scheduled for up to an hour, so there is time to stay with your pet and say your final goodbyes after they have passed. If your appointment is at home and you would like more time afterward, your pet can remain with you. Some families choose to keep their pet at home for a few additional hours, or even overnight, so they can say goodbye in their own way. When you are ready, you can bring your pet to our Comfort Center, and we will continue caring for them through cremation.
Do I have to stay for the entire appointment?
No. You can be present in whatever way feels right for you. Some people want to stay beside their pet through every part of the appointment. Others choose to step out before the final medication is given, or have another family member stay with their pet instead. Your pet will be cared for and comforted by us regardless of what you decide.
THE APPOINTMENT
What to expect during your appointment, from the first few minutes through the time you have together afterward.
What happens when the appointment begins?
We’ll start by getting you and your pet settled, whether we’re meeting you at home or in one of our Comfort Rooms. Your veterinarian will talk through what will happen, answer any questions you still have, and give you time to get comfortable before we begin. There is no need to rush through these first few minutes.
How is my pet sedated?
Sedation is always given before the euthanasia medication. Your veterinarian will give a small injection, usually under the skin or into a muscle. Your pet may notice a brief pinch or sting from the injection, but within several minutes they will become very sleepy and then deeply sedated. We wait until your pet is fully relaxed and unaware before moving to the next step.
What actually happens during euthanasia?
Once your pet is fully sedated and no longer aware of what is happening, your veterinarian will give the euthanasia medication. This medication causes breathing and the heart to stop. Because your pet is already deeply sedated, they are not aware of or experiencing this part of the procedure. Your veterinarian will listen to your pet’s heart afterward and let you know when they have died.
Will my pet feel pain?
A medium-length answer that giveThe only discomfort some pets may experience is a brief pinch or sting from the sedation injection. Most pets have little to no reaction, though how they respond can depend on their temperament, how ill they’re feeling, and any discomfort they may already be experiencing. After the sedation takes effect, your pet is deeply asleep and unaware. They will not feel the euthanasia medication or know that it is being given. Comfort is our priority throughout the entire appointment, and we’ll always adjust our approach based on what your pet needs.
Is there anything I might see after my pet dies?
There are a few normal physical changes that can happen when the body dies, and knowing about them ahead of time can make them less surprising. Your pet’s eyes will usually remain open. You may also see a deeper breath or two, a small muscle movement or twitch, or release of urine or stool. These are normal reflexes and changes in the body after death. They do not mean your pet is conscious or uncomfortable. Your veterinarian will be right there and can explain anything you notice.
How long does the appointment take?
Most appointments last about 45 minutes to an hour. The medical portion itself is relatively short. Most of the appointment is spent talking, getting your pet comfortable, and giving you time together before and after the euthanasia. There is no expectation that you move through the appointment at a particular pace.
Will I have time with my pet afterward?
Yes. Appointments are scheduled for up to an hour, so there is time to stay with your pet and say your final goodbyes after they have passed. If your appointment is at home and you would like more time afterward, your pet can remain with you. Some families choose to keep their pet at home for a few additional hours, or even overnight, so they can say goodbye in their own way. When you are ready, you can bring your pet to our Comfort Center, and we will continue caring for them through cremation.
Do I have to stay for the entire appointment?
No. You can be present in whatever way feels right for you. Some people want to stay beside their pet through every part of the appointment. Others choose to step out before the final medication is given, or have another family member stay with their pet instead. Your pet will be cared for and comforted by us regardless of what you decide.
THE APPOINTMENT
What to expect during your appointment, from the first few minutes through the time you have together afterward.
What happens when the appointment begins?
We’ll start by getting you and your pet settled, whether we’re meeting you at home or in one of our Comfort Rooms. Your veterinarian will talk through what will happen, answer any questions you still have, and give you time to get comfortable before we begin. There is no need to rush through these first few minutes.
How is my pet sedated?
Sedation is always given before the euthanasia medication. Your veterinarian will give a small injection, usually under the skin or into a muscle. Your pet may notice a brief pinch or sting from the injection, but within several minutes they will become very sleepy and then deeply sedated. We wait until your pet is fully relaxed and unaware before moving to the next step.
What actually happens during euthanasia?
Once your pet is fully sedated and no longer aware of what is happening, your veterinarian will give the euthanasia medication. This medication causes breathing and the heart to stop. Because your pet is already deeply sedated, they are not aware of or experiencing this part of the procedure. Your veterinarian will listen to your pet’s heart afterward and let you know when they have died.
Will my pet feel pain?
A medium-length answer that giveThe only discomfort some pets may experience is a brief pinch or sting from the sedation injection. Most pets have little to no reaction, though how they respond can depend on their temperament, how ill they’re feeling, and any discomfort they may already be experiencing. After the sedation takes effect, your pet is deeply asleep and unaware. They will not feel the euthanasia medication or know that it is being given. Comfort is our priority throughout the entire appointment, and we’ll always adjust our approach based on what your pet needs.
Is there anything I might see after my pet dies?
There are a few normal physical changes that can happen when the body dies, and knowing about them ahead of time can make them less surprising. Your pet’s eyes will usually remain open. You may also see a deeper breath or two, a small muscle movement or twitch, or release of urine or stool. These are normal reflexes and changes in the body after death. They do not mean your pet is conscious or uncomfortable. Your veterinarian will be right there and can explain anything you notice.
How long does the appointment take?
Most appointments last about 45 minutes to an hour. The medical portion itself is relatively short. Most of the appointment is spent talking, getting your pet comfortable, and giving you time together before and after the euthanasia. There is no expectation that you move through the appointment at a particular pace.
Will I have time with my pet afterward?
Yes. Appointments are scheduled for up to an hour, so there is time to stay with your pet and say your final goodbyes after they have passed. If your appointment is at home and you would like more time afterward, your pet can remain with you. Some families choose to keep their pet at home for a few additional hours, or even overnight, so they can say goodbye in their own way. When you are ready, you can bring your pet to our Comfort Center, and we will continue caring for them through cremation.
Do I have to stay for the entire appointment?
No. You can be present in whatever way feels right for you. Some people want to stay beside their pet through every part of the appointment. Others choose to step out before the final medication is given, or have another family member stay with their pet instead. Your pet will be cared for and comforted by us regardless of what you decide.
AFTERCARE & REMEMBRANCE
What happens after goodbye, including cremation, keepsakes, and the ways we can continue supporting you.
What happens to my pet after the appointment?
If you choose water cremation with Honor Pet, your pet remains in our care from the time you say goodbye through cremation. At our Comfort Center, your pet stays with our team after your appointment. For in-home appointments, your veterinarian will bring your pet back to our Comfort Center unless you have chosen to spend additional time with them at home. From there, we will care for your pet according to the aftercare option you have selected.
What is individual water cremation?
With individual water cremation, your pet is placed in their own individual basket throughout the cremation process. Their ashes are then carefully prepared and returned to you in our Honor Box. This is the option to choose if you would like your pet’s ashes returned home.
What is communal water cremation?
With communal water cremation, pets are cremated together and their ashes are not returned to you. Communal ashes are personally scattered by our founder, Dr. Shea Cox, at Little Whiskers, our private 10-acre hilltop nature preserve. www.mylittlewhiskers.com
What is water cremation?
Water cremation, also called alkaline hydrolysis or aquamation, is a gentle alternative to traditional flame cremation that uses water, temperature, and alkalinity instead of fire. The process uses significantly less energy and produces no direct emissions from combustion. It also returns approximately 20% more ashes to families than flame cremation. The ashes look and feel very similar to those returned after traditional cremation, although they are typically a lighter color and finer in texture.
If I choose individual water cremation, how are my pet’s ashes returned?
Your pet’s ashes are returned to you in our Honor Box, which includes: • your pet’s ashes in a scatter tube urn • a fur clipping • a digital nose print • a beeswax candle • forget-me-not seeds • a memorial tree planted in your pet’s honor The Honor Box and its contents are made with sustainability in mind, using paper-based materials, soy-based inks, and other thoughtfully chosen materials whenever possible.
Can I choose additional memorial items?
Yes. In addition to the keepsakes included in the Honor Box, our online store offers a collection of urns, memorial jewelry, and other unique ways to remember your pet. After your appointment, you’ll receive a link to explore the available options. We wait three days before beginning cremation, giving you time to consider what you may want and choose how you would like to memorialize your pet without feeling rushed.
When will my pet’s ashes be ready?
For individual water cremation, your pet’s ashes are typically ready within 14 business days. This may take a little longer if you’ve ordered a custom item, such as an engraved urn or memorial jewelry.
What support is available after my pet dies?
Pet loss support is available at no cost to Honor Pet families. We offer weekly virtual support groups led by our licensed clinical social worker, Amy, who specializes in pet grief and loss. Groups are kept small so everyone has space to share, listen, or simply be present. Individual support is also available for families who would prefer to speak with someone one-on-one.
AFTERCARE & REMEMBRANCE
What happens after goodbye, including cremation, keepsakes, and the ways we can continue supporting you.
What happens to my pet after the appointment?
If you choose water cremation with Honor Pet, your pet remains in our care from the time you say goodbye through cremation. At our Comfort Center, your pet stays with our team after your appointment. For in-home appointments, your veterinarian will bring your pet back to our Comfort Center unless you have chosen to spend additional time with them at home. From there, we will care for your pet according to the aftercare option you have selected.
What is individual water cremation?
With individual water cremation, your pet is placed in their own individual basket throughout the cremation process. Their ashes are then carefully prepared and returned to you in our Honor Box. This is the option to choose if you would like your pet’s ashes returned home.
What is communal water cremation?
With communal water cremation, pets are cremated together and their ashes are not returned to you. Communal ashes are personally scattered by our founder, Dr. Shea Cox, at Little Whiskers, our private 10-acre hilltop nature preserve. www.mylittlewhiskers.com
What is water cremation?
Water cremation, also called alkaline hydrolysis or aquamation, is a gentle alternative to traditional flame cremation that uses water, temperature, and alkalinity instead of fire. The process uses significantly less energy and produces no direct emissions from combustion. It also returns approximately 20% more ashes to families than flame cremation. The ashes look and feel very similar to those returned after traditional cremation, although they are typically a lighter color and finer in texture.
If I choose individual water cremation, how are my pet’s ashes returned?
Your pet’s ashes are returned to you in our Honor Box, which includes: • your pet’s ashes in a scatter tube urn • a fur clipping • a digital nose print • a beeswax candle • forget-me-not seeds • a memorial tree planted in your pet’s honor The Honor Box and its contents are made with sustainability in mind, using paper-based materials, soy-based inks, and other thoughtfully chosen materials whenever possible.
Can I choose additional memorial items?
Yes. In addition to the keepsakes included in the Honor Box, our online store offers a collection of urns, memorial jewelry, and other unique ways to remember your pet. After your appointment, you’ll receive a link to explore the available options. We wait three days before beginning cremation, giving you time to consider what you may want and choose how you would like to memorialize your pet without feeling rushed.
When will my pet’s ashes be ready?
For individual water cremation, your pet’s ashes are typically ready within 14 business days. This may take a little longer if you’ve ordered a custom item, such as an engraved urn or memorial jewelry.
What support is available after my pet dies?
Pet loss support is available at no cost to Honor Pet families. We offer weekly virtual support groups led by our licensed clinical social worker, Amy, who specializes in pet grief and loss. Groups are kept small so everyone has space to share, listen, or simply be present. Individual support is also available for families who would prefer to speak with someone one-on-one.
AFTERCARE & REMEMBRANCE
What happens after goodbye, including cremation, keepsakes, and the ways we can continue supporting you.
What happens to my pet after the appointment?
If you choose water cremation with Honor Pet, your pet remains in our care from the time you say goodbye through cremation. At our Comfort Center, your pet stays with our team after your appointment. For in-home appointments, your veterinarian will bring your pet back to our Comfort Center unless you have chosen to spend additional time with them at home. From there, we will care for your pet according to the aftercare option you have selected.
What is individual water cremation?
With individual water cremation, your pet is placed in their own individual basket throughout the cremation process. Their ashes are then carefully prepared and returned to you in our Honor Box. This is the option to choose if you would like your pet’s ashes returned home.
What is communal water cremation?
With communal water cremation, pets are cremated together and their ashes are not returned to you. Communal ashes are personally scattered by our founder, Dr. Shea Cox, at Little Whiskers, our private 10-acre hilltop nature preserve. www.mylittlewhiskers.com
What is water cremation?
Water cremation, also called alkaline hydrolysis or aquamation, is a gentle alternative to traditional flame cremation that uses water, temperature, and alkalinity instead of fire. The process uses significantly less energy and produces no direct emissions from combustion. It also returns approximately 20% more ashes to families than flame cremation. The ashes look and feel very similar to those returned after traditional cremation, although they are typically a lighter color and finer in texture.
If I choose individual water cremation, how are my pet’s ashes returned?
Your pet’s ashes are returned to you in our Honor Box, which includes: • your pet’s ashes in a scatter tube urn • a fur clipping • a digital nose print • a beeswax candle • forget-me-not seeds • a memorial tree planted in your pet’s honor The Honor Box and its contents are made with sustainability in mind, using paper-based materials, soy-based inks, and other thoughtfully chosen materials whenever possible.
Can I choose additional memorial items?
Yes. In addition to the keepsakes included in the Honor Box, our online store offers a collection of urns, memorial jewelry, and other unique ways to remember your pet. After your appointment, you’ll receive a link to explore the available options. We wait three days before beginning cremation, giving you time to consider what you may want and choose how you would like to memorialize your pet without feeling rushed.
When will my pet’s ashes be ready?
For individual water cremation, your pet’s ashes are typically ready within 14 business days. This may take a little longer if you’ve ordered a custom item, such as an engraved urn or memorial jewelry.
What support is available after my pet dies?
Pet loss support is available at no cost to Honor Pet families. We offer weekly virtual support groups led by our licensed clinical social worker, Amy, who specializes in pet grief and loss. Groups are kept small so everyone has space to share, listen, or simply be present. Individual support is also available for families who would prefer to speak with someone one-on-one.
FAMILY & COMPANIONS
How to include the people and pets who are most important to you and your pet.
Can my children be there?
Yes. Children are always welcome, both at home and in our Comfort Rooms. If they’re going to be present, we recommend explaining what will happen honestly and in language that makes sense for their age. Using clear words like death and dying can be less confusing than saying a pet is “going to sleep.” Children can participate as much or as little as feels right for them. They might want to sit with their pet, draw a picture, write a note, bring a favorite toy, or simply be nearby. There is no right way for a child to respond. Some cry, some ask lots of questions, and some move in and out of the moment. All of that is okay.
Can my other pets be there?
Yes. Other pets are welcome to be present before, during, or after the appointment. Some animals prefer to stay close, while others may wander in and out or keep their distance. There is no need to make them participate in a particular way. After your pet has passed, you may also choose to give the other pets in your home a chance to come near them, sniff them, or simply be in the room for a few minutes. If you have a pet who is very anxious, reactive, or likely to make the appointment more stressful for your pet, we may recommend having them in another area until afterward.
Can friends and extended family be there?
Absolutely. Bring the people who are important to you and your pet. Some families want the appointment to be very private. Others gather children, grandparents, close friends, neighbors, or anyone else who has been part of their pet’s life. At home, you can include as many people as feels comfortable for you. At our Comfort Center, we’ve welcomed groups of up to 12 friends and family members. There’s no expectation that this has to be a small or private goodbye.
What if someone important can’t be there in person?
If someone you want to include can’t be there, you’re welcome to have them join by phone or video call. Families also sometimes ask someone who cannot attend to write a note, choose a favorite photo, send a flower, or share something they would like read or placed with their pet during the appointment.
FAMILY & COMPANIONS
How to include the people and pets who are most important to you and your pet.
Can my children be there?
Yes. Children are always welcome, both at home and in our Comfort Rooms. If they’re going to be present, we recommend explaining what will happen honestly and in language that makes sense for their age. Using clear words like death and dying can be less confusing than saying a pet is “going to sleep.” Children can participate as much or as little as feels right for them. They might want to sit with their pet, draw a picture, write a note, bring a favorite toy, or simply be nearby. There is no right way for a child to respond. Some cry, some ask lots of questions, and some move in and out of the moment. All of that is okay.
Can my other pets be there?
Yes. Other pets are welcome to be present before, during, or after the appointment. Some animals prefer to stay close, while others may wander in and out or keep their distance. There is no need to make them participate in a particular way. After your pet has passed, you may also choose to give the other pets in your home a chance to come near them, sniff them, or simply be in the room for a few minutes. If you have a pet who is very anxious, reactive, or likely to make the appointment more stressful for your pet, we may recommend having them in another area until afterward.
Can friends and extended family be there?
Absolutely. Bring the people who are important to you and your pet. Some families want the appointment to be very private. Others gather children, grandparents, close friends, neighbors, or anyone else who has been part of their pet’s life. At home, you can include as many people as feels comfortable for you. At our Comfort Center, we’ve welcomed groups of up to 12 friends and family members. There’s no expectation that this has to be a small or private goodbye.
What if someone important can’t be there in person?
If someone you want to include can’t be there, you’re welcome to have them join by phone or video call. Families also sometimes ask someone who cannot attend to write a note, choose a favorite photo, send a flower, or share something they would like read or placed with their pet during the appointment.
FAMILY & COMPANIONS
How to include the people and pets who are most important to you and your pet.
Can my children be there?
Yes. Children are always welcome, both at home and in our Comfort Rooms. If they’re going to be present, we recommend explaining what will happen honestly and in language that makes sense for their age. Using clear words like death and dying can be less confusing than saying a pet is “going to sleep.” Children can participate as much or as little as feels right for them. They might want to sit with their pet, draw a picture, write a note, bring a favorite toy, or simply be nearby. There is no right way for a child to respond. Some cry, some ask lots of questions, and some move in and out of the moment. All of that is okay.
Can my other pets be there?
Yes. Other pets are welcome to be present before, during, or after the appointment. Some animals prefer to stay close, while others may wander in and out or keep their distance. There is no need to make them participate in a particular way. After your pet has passed, you may also choose to give the other pets in your home a chance to come near them, sniff them, or simply be in the room for a few minutes. If you have a pet who is very anxious, reactive, or likely to make the appointment more stressful for your pet, we may recommend having them in another area until afterward.
Can friends and extended family be there?
Absolutely. Bring the people who are important to you and your pet. Some families want the appointment to be very private. Others gather children, grandparents, close friends, neighbors, or anyone else who has been part of their pet’s life. At home, you can include as many people as feels comfortable for you. At our Comfort Center, we’ve welcomed groups of up to 12 friends and family members. There’s no expectation that this has to be a small or private goodbye.
What if someone important can’t be there in person?
If someone you want to include can’t be there, you’re welcome to have them join by phone or video call. Families also sometimes ask someone who cannot attend to write a note, choose a favorite photo, send a flower, or share something they would like read or placed with their pet during the appointment.