Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Your Service area?

Our current service area can be found here. If you live just outside this area, we may still be able to help. Please call or text to discuss and see if our travel schedule will permit us to help.

What are your fees?

Fees for Home Euthanasia services are based on your pet’s size (for medications used) and wishes for aftercare and can be viewed here. Please feel free to text or call us to discuss as well.

how do i know it’s time?

We know it can be so tough! Every situation is unique and requires consideration of a variety of important factors. If you are struggling with the decision for euthanasia for your beloved pet, you are very normal and not alone. We are here to offer support and guidance. It is quite literally the focus of our entire practice. You may call or text us or you may wish to read further here.

What should i expect at the home euthanasia visit?

It is our goal for your pet to experience nothing but the familiar surroundings, sounds, and love found only within your home as they drift off into a deep sleep and gentle passing.

Your pet will be first be given a sedative to allow for gradual transition into a deep, comfortable sleep. Dr. Trupia will step out during this portion of the visit to allow privacy and time with your pet. Your pet will then be given a second medication that allows for peaceful, pain-free passing.

You will again be given time and space with your pet after they have passed. When you are ready, our doctor will respectfully tuck your pet into a basket or onto a cot/stretcher to be carried out to our vehicle. Family members may be asked to help or may choose to act as pallbearers during this process. You may find more information by scrolling all the way through our Home Euthanasia page to the bottom.

Do I need to do anything to physically prepare for my visit?

We want you to be able to focus on spending time with your pet prior to the visit. You do not need to do anything specific for us. If you would like to set the area with favorite blankets or pillows, or arrange for a location in the yard, please feel free to do so. This visit may be as personal as you would like. You may find additional ideas here.

Should my other pets be present at the visit?

Every pet is different and we encourage you to base decisions on what you know about your pet. In general, however, we believe having housemates present at some point during the home euthanasia visit may help with their own understanding of what has happened to their friend. Some families keep other pets away during the visit, so as to focus on the pet saying goodbye, then bring them back out to see and smell their friend afterward. Other families allow housemates to be present for the duration of the visit. In our experience, most housemates end up relaxing and even napping during the visit.

Should my children be present?

This is a personal decision based on your specific child. In general, we encourage you to discuss the situation (in an age-appropriate manner) openly and honestly with your children and allow them to be part of the conversation. Please take a look at this article by Dr Trupia for more in-depth guidance on the topic of pet euthanasia and pet loss as it pertains to children.

My pet is fearful of strangers. Can we still schedule?

Please text or call us to discuss the details for your specific situation to determine if home euthanasia services would be right for your pet. In general, however, for sick pets who may be fearful or anxious we may still be able to create a plan to provide a peaceful experience. We do not/will not resort to manhandling. We have additional training specifically for these situations so that your pet will experience the most gentle, painless, and stress-free goodbye possible. *There are circumstances and situations for which we will not be able to offer home euthanasia services.

do you take my pet with you for cremation services?

For cremation services, we partner with Trusted Journey Pet Memorial Services in Plainfield. If you are electing cremation services, following home euthanasia or natural pet death, the Dr. will take your pet with her for transportation at the end of the visit. Small pets will be placed in a basket, tucked in with a blanket and pillow. Larger pets will be placed on a handheld cot tucked in with a blanket and pillow. You may be asked to assist with taking larger pets to the vehicle. All will be done with the utmost respect and regard for your pet. Alternatively, you may be more comfortable driving your pet to the crematorium of your choice yourself. We support either decision.

May We Send Items With Our Pet?

You may send special toys or blankets with your pet. Small items may be able to be cremated with your pet. (You will not get any items back that are sent with your pet)

How do I know that the ashes received are from my pet?

Trusted Journey Pet Memorial Services adheres to a strict code of ethics and practices in all aspects of their operations. All pets entering their facilities are assigned a unique pet identification number that follows them and is electronically scanned through every step of the cremation process, ensuring accuracy and accountability. Additionally, we have toured their facilities and seen first hand the dignity and respect with which your pets are treated.

May I view the cremation?

You may opt to view private cremation. Please reach out to Trusted Journey directly to arrange aftercare options with them directly.

What happens to my pet while waiting for cremation services?

Your pet will be kept safe and sound while waiting for cremation services. The team from Trusted Journey Pet Memorial Services will meet us at our private office to transport your beloved pet to the crematorium. All pets will continue to be treated with the utmost care and respect and dignity is maintained throughout this journey.