End of Life Planning
Compassionate support for your pet’s final moments
We understand the difficulty of making end-of-life decisions for your beloved pet, and we are here to support you during this challenging time. We recognize that planning during the final moments in the clinic can be overwhelming, and we want to provide you with information and options to help guide you through this process.
How do you know when it is time?
The process begins by talking with your veterinarian about your concerns and discussing your pet’s quality of life. Signs that it may be time include:
- Persistent pain or discomfort that cannot be managed effectively
- Difficulty eating, drinking, or moving around
- Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Changes in behavior or social interaction
Your veterinarian can help assess your pet’s condition and guide you in making a decision that prioritizes comfort and dignity. For additional guidance you are welcome to complete a Quality of Life Assessment form, available on the Lap of Love website.
Preparing for Your Pet’s Appointment
Planning ahead can help you focus your love and energy on your pet. Discuss with your loved ones who would like to be present and what to expect during and after the euthanasia.
- It is completely okay if you choose not to be in the room—some people step out, while others prefer to be present when saying goodbye.
- If there is a veterinarian you would like to be present, please let us know so we can make arrangements accordingly.
- Euthanasia is usually performed at the hospital in a calm, prepared exam room, allowing you as much time as you need with your pet.
- For families who prefer, we also offer house call or at-home euthanasia for existing clients.
Please use the link below to complete our electronic authorization form prior to the procedure. If you prefer, a paper form will also be available at your appointment.
Back-Up Plan for Emergencies
It is important to have a back-up plan in case your pet experiences an urgent situation.
- Consider who to call or where to go if something unexpected occurs.
- Some emergencies may require humane euthanasia to be performed right away.
Several Twin Cities hospitals are open 24/7 and can assist at any time:
Golden Valley / Blue Pearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital —
(952) 942-8272
Eden Prairie / Allied Emergency Veterinary Service —
(952) 452-0025
South Minneapolis / Allied Emergency Veterinary Service —
(952) 521-3030
Apple Valley / South Metro Animal Emergency Care —
(952) 953-3737
St. Paul / University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center —
(612) 626-8387)
Oakdale / Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota —
(651) 501-3766
Understanding the Euthanasia Process
Knowing what to expect can help you prepare emotionally. Our goal is to ensure your pet remains calm, peaceful, and comfortable.
- Your veterinarian will administer a sedative tailored to your pet’s needs via injection to keep them relaxed.
- You will have private time with your pet as the sedative takes effect.
- An intravenous catheter will be placed once your pet is calm.
- You may spend as much time as needed with your pet before the final injection is given.
- After the euthanasia injection, passing occurs peacefully within moments. Your veterinarian will confirm with a stethoscope and verbally inform you.
You are welcome to have private time with your pet for your final goodbye. When you are ready, our staff will accompany your pet while you are escorted from the clinic.
Aftercare Options
We offer several aftercare options:
- Separate Cremation: Your Pet is cremated alongside but apart from other pets; ashes are collected from each pet separately and returned.
- Individual Cremation: Your pet is cremated alone and ashes are returned
- Communal cremation: Your pet is cremated with others; ashes are not returned.
- Home burial: Please ensure proper depth, property ownership, and safety considerations avoiding underground utilities and tree roots and avoiding flood plains
If you would like to bury your pet at a pet cemetery, one of the few remaining options in the Twin Cities area is located just north of Owatonna: Bennett’s Pet Haven Cemetery, Inc. For more information, including services and pricing, please visit their website or contact them directly.
How are my pet’s remains returned to me?
If you elect to have your pet’s ashes, or cremains returned to you, we will call you as soon as they arrive back at the hospital. Cremains are returned in a sturdy cardboard box. You may select a simple wooden or metal urn instead for an additional cost.
There are also several other urns of all shapes, sizes and styles you may choose from if you would like. Click the link below to view these options.
Pet Mementos
We offer several ways to commemorate your beloved pet. We provide complimentary clipped locks of fur, clay paw prints, ink paw prints and ink nose prints for families if they choose. Families must bake the clay paw prints at home to set the impression.
We also offer a Pet Memorial page, where you can share photos and cherished memories of your pet to share with the community.
The Grieving Process
Grief is unique for every individual and family, including other pets in the household. Signs of grief in pets may include changes in social interaction, appetite, or energy levels. Please inform us if your family or other pets require support.
We offer a selection of books on pet loss for families to keep, tailored for children, adults, and families.
Helpful resources to provide comfort and support after the loss of your pet can be found on the MN Pets – Pet Loss and Grief Support Resources page or Lap of Love – Pet Loss and Grief Resources page.
Why Choose South Hyland for End-of-Life Care
Our team at South Hyland consists of individuals who love and dedicate their careers to animals. We have all been through the process of euthanasia with our own pets at one time or another. You are in the company of kindred spirits.
We are honored to guide your family through this important final act of care with compassion, respect, and sensitivity.
Contact Us
Call or text: (952) 884-1868
Request an Appointment: PetDesk App
Email: southhyland@southhyland.com