Preparing for Euthanasia
Dr. Carrie Donahue, owner of Full Circle Pet Hospice and Euthanasia, will come to your home and gently guide your pet’s peaceful passing in a calmer and quieter setting than in a standard clinic. Our visit to you also offers a meaningful benefit to your other pets as they are able to realize their companion is passing and spend as much time as they need to say goodbye. This helps minimize any separation anxiety that can occur when one pet is taken to another location to be euthanized while the other pets are left behind. Lighting candles or playing soft music provides a warm backdrop if you are so inclined.
One phenomenon that we have seen again and again with companion animals is that once the decision is made or the appointment is booked, pets will tend to have a "rebound" and feel better, for however short or extended a time period it may be. This can make us second-guess our decisions and wonder if it really is the right time. From our perspective, these "good days" are a true blessing, but often not long-lasting. Our thought is that once we as pet owners have made the decision to let our pets' struggle with pain or difficulty end, our pets actually relax a little bit because they "know" through their intuitive understanding, that they will not be suffering much longer, and this allows the rebound.
Rebounding
It is better to say goodbye a day early than even a moment too late. Home euthanasia allows us to choose how we want the end of our pet's life to be, which is how we would all want it to be if we had the choice -- surrounded by love and family, in the comfort of home. Not alone, not painful, not scared, not in a cold sterile environment, but in the care of loved ones who let them know that everything is ok and they are loved, and they don't have to struggle any more, they can find peace now. That this service is available for pets in their time of need is a blessing beyond words, and it is an honor for us to be a part of this journey with you.
We want to be able to say Thank You ... not I'm Sorry
Once the decision for euthanasia has been made, reach out to us, we can help answer any questions that you have and set up the appointment. We encourage pet owners to send us a text message to let us know if you are ready to set up a time, or if you'd like a phone call to discuss. We will then send you a consent form to gather information about you and your pet, and give you more information on the process.
We are here to answer your questions and help to prepare everyone for what to expect during your in-home visit.
If you are ready to book your appointment, you can either contact us directly, or if you are in the Madison area you can also view our calendar and book directly online here
Making Your Appointment
Dr. Carrie will come to your home to assist you with your pet’s peaceful transition. When she arrives, she will greet you and your pet and address any initial concerns you may have. The doctor will discuss all aspects of the procedure and what to expect, then ask what questions, concerns, or special requests you may have. We can be wherever you would like to be, where your pet is the most comfortable.
When everyone is comfortable, the doctor will administer an injection that will relax and sedate your pet, as well as erase any pain or discomfort they may have. We believe these moments should be as comfortable and peaceful as possible for them. Typically it will take a few minutes for your pet to get drowsy, and about 10 minutes to have the full effect of the sedative.
After your pet is relaxed and comfortable, Dr. Carrie will then administer the final medication in a vein that will allow your beloved friend to pass away quietly and peacefully. She will respectfully allow you and your family (including housemate pets) to spend adequate time before and after the procedure, then she will transport your pet for cremation or depart at that time if you are choosing home burial.
