Our services
Euthanasia and End of Life Care
Compassionate support to help you make the kindest decision for your pet, and to say goodbye peacefully.
Compassionate Pet Euthanasia at The Narre Warren Vet
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult experiences a pet owner can face.
We understand that your pet is an important member of your family. When the time comes, our veterinary team is here to provide compassionate, respectful euthanasia and support you and your family through the process.
Every situation is different, and deciding when the time is right can be incredibly difficult. Your veterinarian can talk with you about your pet’s individual circumstances, quality of life and available options.
Knowing when it is time
Deciding when to say goodbye is a deeply personal decision. If you are unsure whether the time has come, we encourage you to speak with your veterinarian. For more information on knowing when it is time, please visit our quality-of-life resource.
What happens during pet euthanasia?
Before euthanasia, your veterinarian will explain the process and answer any questions you may have.
Our aim is to make your pet’s final moments as peaceful, comfortable and dignified as possible.
Your veterinarian will explain each stage of the procedure and give you time to say goodbye. You are welcome to spend time with your pet before and after the procedure.
Our team will support you throughout the appointment and give you the time and privacy you need.
Can I stay with my pet?
Yes. You can choose to remain with your pet during the euthanasia process.
Some people wish to be present for every moment, while others find it too difficult. There is no right or wrong choice.
We will respect your wishes and support whatever feels right for you and your family.
What happens after euthanasia?
After your pet has passed away, you have several options for their aftercare. We understand that this can be an emotional decision, and there is no single option that is right for every family.
Before your appointment, you are welcome to discuss the available options with our team so that you have an idea of what you would like to happen after your pet’s passing.
Can I bury my pet at home?
If you would like to bury your pet at home, you may be able to take them home after euthanasia.
Before choosing home burial, it is important to check the requirements that apply to your property and local council. We also recommend checking local regulations and by-laws before choosing to bury your pet at home.
If you are considering this option, please let our team know when making your appointment so we can discuss the arrangements with you.
Private cremation
With private cremation, your pet is cremated individually, and their ashes are returned to you.
This option allows you to keep your pet’s ashes and choose how you would like to remember them. You may choose an urn or another memorial vessel, and there may also be options for keepsakes such as paw prints or other memorial items.
If you would like more information on private cremation or available vessels, please visit Edenhills Private Cremation
Communal cremation
With communal cremation, your pet is cremated alongside other pets in a designated communal cremation chamber.
The ashes are not individually separated or returned to you. Memorial products and keepsakes are not available with communal cremation.
Communal cremation can be an appropriate option for families who do not wish to have their pet’s ashes returned.
Edenhills provides further information about the differences between private and communal cremation in their Aftercare Options resource.
Choosing the right aftercare option
There is no right or wrong choice when deciding how to care for your pet after euthanasia. Some families find comfort in having their pet’s ashes returned, while others prefer a communal cremation or to take their pet home.
If you’re unsure which option you would prefer, our team can talk you through the arrangements available when you book your pet’s euthanasia appointment.
If you would like a private cremation, we can also discuss the memorial and keepsake options available through Edenhills.
Grief and Support After Losing Your Pet
Losing a beloved pet can be incredibly difficult. For many people, the grief following the loss of a pet can feel just as significant as the loss of any other member of the family.
There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and everyone responds differently. You may experience sadness, loneliness, anger, guilt or a sense of emptiness, and these feelings can change over time.
You don’t have to go through it alone. There are resources available to help you understand and navigate pet loss and grief.
Edenhills Pet Loss & Grief Resources
Edenhills has developed a range of resources specifically for families experiencing the loss of a pet.
Their Pet Loss and Grief Brochure provides information and support for families following the loss of a beloved companion.
Edenhills also provides additional resources, including guides and information about pet loss, aftercare and remembering your pet.
Looking after yourself
Grief can affect everyone differently. Give yourself time and don’t feel that you need to move on before you are ready.
It can help to talk with someone you trust about how you’re feeling. Your friends and family may also be grieving, so sharing memories and talking about your pet can be an important part of saying goodbye.
If you feel that you are struggling to cope, speaking with your general practitioner or a mental health professional can provide additional support.
Mental health support
Pet loss can be an especially difficult experience, and sometimes grief can leave you feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope.
The following Australian services provide mental health and emotional support:
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue provides free, confidential counselling by phone and online, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can speak with a counsellor about how you’re feeling and discuss options for further support.
Phone: 1300 22 4636
Lifeline
Lifeline provides 24/7 crisis support for people experiencing emotional distress or finding it difficult to cope.
Phone: 13 11 14
Text: 0477 13 11 14
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000.
You don’t have to grieve alone
There is no timetable for grieving the loss of a pet. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself the time and space to remember the relationship you shared.
If you need help finding additional support following the loss of your pet, please speak with our team. While we are not grief counsellors, we can help point you towards appropriate resources and services.
Ready to book a visit?
Book online in a few clicks or call our friendly team. We look forward to meeting you and your pet.