Your pet will be made comfortable. It is our desire to minimize any pain or stress that your pet may feel, so they are given a sedative prior to the procedure to help keep them calm. We want to ensure this is a stress-free and peaceful time for them. Birds, small pets and exotics receive a gas anesthetic so they are asleep prior to injection, while cats and dogs typically receive an IV catheter.

The short answer is, as long as you need. While the sedation can take up to 20 minutes to take effect, as long as your pet is comfortable, we allow families whatever time they require to sit together prior to the actual procedure. Some people need those final moments with their pet, while others have said good-bye at home and are comfortable to proceed immediately.

Once the process has begun, your pet’s breathing and heart will stop within minutes (sometimes immediately).

So, based on the time you need with your pet, the process can take 20 minutes up to a few hours. We will always be sensitive to the emotions you will feel and the time you need.

Most of the time, the procedure is done at our clinic. This allows a clear separation and helps bring closure. We try to book appointments at the end of the day so we are able to afford you as much privacy as you need. However, we can make arrangements to euthanize in your home, if you prefer.

We encourage pet owners to be with their pet during the procedure. Your presence is a great comfort, and this will help your pet to remain calm. We also encourage children to attend. Including them in the process helps them deal with their grief as they say good-bye to their pet.

You may choose to remain with your pet for a short time after the procedure or you may choose to leave immediately if you have said good-bye at home beforehand. We respect whatever decision you make.

After the procedure, your pet’s body is taken to Gateway Pet Memorial in Guelph for cremation. You have the option of individual private, or communal cremation. You can read more about those options here If you choose to keep your pet’s cremated remains, they will be available at our clinic after the cremation has taken place. The cremains will be returned to you in an urn of your choosing. Click here to see a list of memorial options.

If you do not choose to keep your pet’s cremains, they will be buried in a communal plot.

Payment is made prior to the procedure. Your emotions may be heightened afterwards and we want the last thing you think about to be the cherished memory of your pet.

The cost of euthanasia varies but you can expect to pay between $85-$375 depending on a number of factors, including type of animal, weight, and whether your pet’s cremains are being returned to you.

Small Exotic (Guinea Pigs) – $83.30 + Cremation ($50.50)

Large Exotics (Rabbits) – $150 + Cremation ($50.50)

Dogs – $197.50 + Cremation ($72.80 – $231)

Cats – $197.50 + Cremation ($72.80)

We know this is a difficult time, so we try to give you an appointment day and time that suits your schedule. Typically we euthanize at the end of the day or in the evening. It makes it easier on a family to have time to go home and grieve the loss, and allows us to give you some privacy at the clinic. However, if you prefer a daytime appointment, we are happy to accommodate. You can book a time in advance or we can take the time to book immediately.

During this time, regulations are changing rapidly. Currently, a maximum of two people are allowed to be present for the procedure, and those people must be free from all signs of illness (no respiratory issues, no fever) and must not have travelled in the 14 days prior to the procedure.

• Do I want to do the procedure at home or at the clinic?
• Do I want to be with my pet during the procedure?
• Will my children be there for the procedure?
• Do I want my pet’s cremated remains returned?
• Do I want a paw imprint?