End of Life Care & Pet Euthanasia

Court Street Vet is a team of dedicated pet owners and we personally understand how difficult it is to say goodbye to a member of the family. At this heart-breaking and confusing time we are here to help you prepare and cope with the loss of your friend. We are proud to be a hospital that supports your medical decisions without judgement, and we work hard to ensure our older patients spend their golden years without pain or distress. We will work closely with you to help you determine when it is time to make this decision. We will try to make the process as comfortable as possible for you and your pet.

Once the decision has been made to say goodbye, clients have a number of different options available to them. So much of this process is based on personal preference and our staff will support whatever makes you most comfortable during this difficult time.

Many of our clients want to be with their pets during the final moments. Some with to kiss them goodbye just after checking in for the appointment. Please know that at any time before or during your visit if your preference changes, that is okay. For those owners choosing not to stay for the duration of the appointment, rest assured that your pet is being cared for by some of the most experienced and compassionate staff in the veterinary field.

What to Expect the Day of Your Appointment

Upon your pet’s arrival, we will move you to a private room to snuggle up with your pet. A doctor will greet you to answer any questions that you may have. We request that you sign a form giving the doctor permission to proceed. Once you are comfortable to proceed with the appointment, your pet will be given a sedative to make them relaxed and sleepy. Sometimes we placed a tourniquet on their arm to place an intravenous catheter (this gives direct access to the vein). Sometimes we find that it’s not possible to place a catheter, it all depends on the individual. When you’re ready, our doctor will give a second overdose injection which will allow your pet to peacefully pass away. At no time will your pet be taken away from you, you can be with them the whole time if you choose to be.

Everyone’s needs are different once their pet has been euthanized. Some wish to remain with their pets for a period of time in the room and others do not. Some wish to pay for the visit in the exam room and others with to pay prior to entering the exam room, all to avoid having to stop at the reception desk afterwards during such a difficult time. We will honor your choices as you communicate them to us.

The final decision a family must consider is what to do with their pet’s remains once they are euthanized. The following are options that are available at this time:

Home Burial

Clients may always request that they take their pet home with them, regardless of the season. We recommend that you allow us to prepare them for transport, in effort to help contain any release of bodily fluids.

Cremation Options:

Private Cremation – For clients wishing to have their pet’s ashes returned to them, this is the option to choose. Our hospital has been working with locally owned Greener Pastures and we wouldn’t trust anyone else with our loved ones. Greener Pastures has always been fantastic, supportive, and offer beautiful memorials; they’re easily contactable and clients may call them directly if needed.

Group Cremation – For clients wanting their pet cremated, but do not desire remains returned, this option is available. If this option is chosen Greener Pastures will place your pet with other animals to be cremated in a group session. Your pet’s remains will not be returned but are gently scattered on their lovely scattering ledges.

You may visit their website at www.greenerpasture.net

Office Hours

Monday—Friday: 8:30am – 6:00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Phone: 603-357-2455
Email: [email protected]

686 Court Street Keene, NH 03431