Bereavement and Euthanasia
We’re here for you and your pet when you need to make the most difficult decision.
Sensitive care from Knutsford vets
The hardest part of owning an animal is making decisions on their care and sadly sometimes making the difficult decision to put our pets to sleep.
Understanding the Euthanasia Process at Knutsford Veterinary Surgery
“At Knutsford Vets, we deeply understand the bond you share with your pet and how tough it can be to face saying goodbye. Our goal is to guide you through this process with compassion, respect, and care, ensuring that your beloved companion’s comfort and dignity remain our highest priority.”
When is it Time?
Deciding on euthanasia is never easy. It often comes after a journey of love and care, and it’s a choice made with your pet’s well-being at heart. If your pet is experiencing unmanageable pain, a significant decline in quality of life, or advanced illness, our veterinary team is here to help you assess their condition and provide guidance. This is never a decision you have to make alone.
The Process: What to Expect
Before the Appointment
You can discuss your concerns with our veterinary team beforehand. We will walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you prepare emotionally and practically. If you prefer, you can arrange for the procedure to be performed at home, depending on your needs and preferences. Please visit our home visits information page on our website for more details.
Might you benefit from support with a Home Visit?
Please see our home visits page for more information on how we are able to support you.
The Appointment
Upon arrival, you will be greeted with care and compassion. We will provide a quiet and comfortable space for you and your pet to say your goodbyes. You will not be asked to wait in the reception area.
- Our veterinarian will explain the process in detail, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
- You are welcome to stay with your pet throughout the procedure, or if you prefer, we can proceed without your presence. This is entirely your choice.
- We will ask you to sign a consent form, which allows us to follow your wishes in your pets aftercare. This may include arrangements for cremation or home burial.
The Procedure
Sometimes we may give your pet a sedative medication to make them feel calm and relaxed, this will help them to gradually fall asleep over 5-10minutes.
- Once the sedative has taken effect and your pet has fallen asleep, we will place an intravenous cannula in your pet's leg. This allows us to have controlled access to your pet's cardiovascular system and allows you to hold your pet during the process.
- Before the euthanasia medication is administered, we will inform you that this is the next and final step, which allows your pet to pass peacefully and painlessly.
- Throughout the process, we monitor and ensure your pet’s comfort and dignity.
Aftercare Options
Saying goodbye doesn’t end with the appointment. We offer various aftercare services, including cremation and memorial keepsakes, to honour your pet’s life. Our team is here to help you navigate these decisions with compassion and understanding. We use a local Crematorium called Green Pastures, who share our ethos in providing your pet with compassion, care and dignity. For more information, please follow the link below:
Grief Support
Grieving the loss of a pet is natural and deeply personal. You don’t have to go through it alone. We can connect you with resources, support groups, or grief counselling services tailored to your needs.
You can speak to members of the team, who have completed bereavement training, to provide you and your family with the ongoing support as you need it. Alternatively, you can contact the Pet Loss Support team at the Blue Cross. Please follow the link to find out all the ways in which you can contact them.
A Final Note
Euthanasia is one of the most compassionate gifts you can give a pet who is suffering. While it’s one of the hardest decisions you’ll ever make, it’s also a profound act of love. Our team is here to walk beside you, ensuring your pet’s journey is peaceful and filled with the care they deserve.
We're here for you
If you have questions or need to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We are here to support you and your pet through every step of this journey.