Frequently Asked Questions About In-Home Pet Euthanasia
At Love & Dignity In-Home Pet Euthanasia, we know that saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult moments a family will face. To help you feel prepared, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about our in-home veterinary euthanasia services for dogs, cats, and rabbits in Philadelphia, Montgomery County, and Bucks County, PA.
Do veterinarians come to your home to perform euthanasia?
Yes. Love & Dignity In-Home Pet Euthanasia specializes in providing compassionate, in-home veterinary euthanasia for dogs, cats, and rabbits. Our mobile veterinarian travels to families across Montgomery County, Bucks County, and Philadelphia, PA, so pets can experience a peaceful passing in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by love.
What should I expect during the euthanasia process?
The process at Love & Dignity In-Home Pet Euthanasia is designed to be gentle and transparent:
- Greeting and Preparation – Our veterinarian will meet you and your pet, and you may choose a meaningful location (favorite bed, sunny spot, or yard).
- Sedation/Anesthesia – A small injection is given to help your pet fall into a deep, peaceful sleep.
- Final Injection – When your family is ready, a second injection—an overdose of anesthesia—will allow your pet to pass away gently and comfortably.
- Memorial Keepsakes – A single paw print and a lock of fur are offered as part of every visit.
- Aftercare – If you’ve chosen cremation, we will respectfully transport your pet and coordinate with our trusted crematory partners.
How much does in-home euthanasia cost?
The base fee for in-home euthanasia is $470, which includes sedation, the euthanasia procedure, and a keepsake paw print. Additional costs may apply for larger pets, extended travel, after-hours appointments, or same-day requests.
Aftercare options, such as private cremation (where ashes are returned to you) or communal cremation (ashes not returned), are available at additional fees. Full details can be found on our At-Home Euthanasia Fees page.
How do I know if it’s the right time to euthanize my pet?
Deciding when to say goodbye to a dog, cat, or rabbit is deeply personal. Signs that may indicate declining quality of life include:
- Constant or unmanaged pain
- Loss of appetite and significant weight loss
- Difficulty breathing, standing, or moving
- Withdrawal from family or usual activities
- More bad days than good days
We encourage families to use a Pet Quality-of-Life Assessment or schedule a Tele-Advice consultation with our veterinarian for guidance and reassurance.
How long does the in-home euthanasia process take?
Appointments generally last between 30 and 45 minutes, though families are encouraged to take the time they need. At Love & Dignity, we never rush the process. From the moment our veterinarian arrives, your pet is treated with respect and gentleness. After discussing your wishes, your pet will receive a light sedative to help them relax, followed by the final injection. For an additional fee, families are welcome to hold ceremonies, say private goodbyes, or request additional time. If interested, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate your request.
Can my other pets or children be present?
Yes. Many families find it comforting to include other pets or children in the farewell process. Love & Dignity will help guide you on whether their presence will be helpful or stressful, depending on your pet’s personality and your family’s wishes. Involving children can provide closure, and allowing other pets to be present can reduce confusion and grief afterward.
What cremation and aftercare options are available?
Love & Dignity In-Home Pet Euthanasia partners with a licensed crematorium to offer:
- Private Cremation – Your pet is cremated individually, and their ashes are returned in a choice of urns or scattering containers.
- Communal Cremation – Pets are cremated respectfully with others, and ashes are not returned. Your pet’s cremated remains will be built into an artificial reef, then placed on the ocean floor as a living memorial to enhance coral generation and marine biomass.
- Keepsakes – Clay or ink paw prints, locks of fur, and personalized urns are available.
See details on our Pet Cremation page.
Will my pet feel any pain?
No. At Love & Dignity In-Home Pet Euthanasia, the process begins with sedation/anesthesia, ensuring your pet is deeply relaxed before the final injection. This means your dog, cat, or rabbit will not experience pain—only peace.
How do I schedule an appointment?
To schedule in-home euthanasia in Philadelphia, Montgomery County, or Bucks County, PA, please call 215-518-9830. We are available Monday – Friday from 9 AM – 5 PM, with limited after-hours options when available. Because demand can be high, we encourage scheduling as early as possible.
How can I prepare my family and home?
You may want to:
- Choose a calm, meaningful space (indoors or outdoors if the weather permits).
- Prepare soft bedding, blankets, or your pet’s favorite toys.
- Allow family members to say goodbye in their own way.
- Arrange aftercare plans in advance, whether home burial, private cremation, or communal cremation.
For detailed preparation steps, visit our What to Expect page.
Love & Dignity: Supporting Families Every Step of the Way
At Love & Dignity In-Home Pet Euthanasia, we are honored to walk alongside families during one of life’s hardest goodbyes. Whether you’re preparing, making decisions, or seeking aftercare, our goal is to provide gentle, dignified, and compassionate veterinary care for dogs, cats, and rabbits throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.