Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy. Dr. Danielle provides compassionate in-home euthanasia services to help your pet pass peacefully in the comfort of your home. Below are answers to common questions about preparing for the appointment, aftercare options, and coping with grief. If you have any other questions, Dr. Danielle is always here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when it's time to euthanize my pet?
Deciding when to say goodbye is never easy. Signs your pet may be suffering include chronic pain not controlled by medication, ongoing vomiting or diarrhea causing dehydration and weight loss, difficulty breathing, or a noticeable decline in quality of life. We encourage families to monitor changes over time. Dr. Danielle can also discuss your concerns with you.
Can I feed my pet before the appointment?
Yes. If your pet is interested, you are welcome to offer a favorite meal or treat to make their last moments as comforting as possible.
What if my pet passes away naturally before the appointment?
Please call or text Dr. Danielle if this happens. She can assist with aftercare arrangements or answer any questions you have.
Do I need to sign any paperwork?
Yes. Before the procedure, you’ll be asked to sign a consent form confirming your understanding and authorization of the process.
What happens during an in-home euthanasia appointment?
Dr. Danielle will arrive, meet you and your pet, and explain each step. Your pet will first receive a sedative to help them relax and fall into a deep sleep peacefully. Once fully asleep, the final medication is administered, allowing them to pass away comfortably with no pain. You are welcome to stay close, hold, pet, or simply be nearby throughout the process. If you have special requests like music or prayers, please let Dr. Danielle know beforehand.
How should I prepare for the appointment?
Choose a quiet, familiar space where your pet feels safe — such as their bed, a blanket, or a favorite spot. Limit noise and distractions. There’s no need to tidy your home; the focus should be on creating a calm, peaceful environment.
Will the vet first examine my pet when they arrive?
Yes. When Dr. Danielle arrives, she will take a moment to gently assess your pet. This is not a full physical exam like you might expect in a clinic — instead, the focus is on your pet’s condition, comfort, and history. If you have any final questions or are unsure about proceeding, she will talk through those with you before moving forward.
Why choose in-home euthanasia?
Being at home allows your pet to remain in a space that feels familiar and safe, surrounded by the people they love. There is no stressful car ride, no waiting room, and no need to rush. Families often tell us that being home makes an incredibly difficult moment a little more peaceful and personal.
Who can be present?
Anyone your pet finds comforting is welcome to be there — including children and other pets. Dr. Danielle will create a calm, respectful space where each family member can say goodbye in their own way.
How much does in-home pet euthanasia cost?
We show a full breakdown of fees on our pricing page, including the euthanasia procedure, any after hours surcharges for evenings and weekends, and if applicable a small travel fee. If you choose cremation services, pricing varies based on your pet’s weight and the type of cremation selected; again examples are shown on our pricing page. All details with firm prices are shown upfront during the booking process.
What areas does Dr. Danielle serve?
Dr. Danielle provides in-home euthanasia services across the Austin metro area. You can check your specific location when booking.
What forms of payment are accepted?
We accept credit cards. A deposit is required when booking online, and the balance is charged at the time of the appointment. Note: We are unable to accept personal checks.
Can I change or cancel my appointment?
Yes. You can reschedule or cancel anytime using the link in your confirmation email. Please note: rescheduling or cancellationing with less than 4 hours' notice will forfeit $50. We appreciate as much notice as possible so we can assist other families in need.
Can the procedure be performed outdoors?
Yes, if weather and privacy allow. A favorite spot like a backyard can be a peaceful setting. Note: During Texas summers, outdoor appointments may not be possible due to high heat.
Can my pet be euthanized while lying in my lap?
Yes. Many families choose to hold or be close to their pet throughout the procedure.
Is sedation always given before euthanasia?
Yes. Every pet receives gentle sedation first, ensuring they are completely relaxed and asleep before the final injection.
What if my pet has a medical condition that makes sedation risky?
Dr. Danielle carefully adjusts sedation protocols for pets with special medical needs to ensure a safe and peaceful experience.
What’s included in the cost?
The fee includes a compassionate, unrushed in-home visit with Dr. Danielle, sedation to ensure your pet is peaceful and pain-free, the euthanasia procedure itself, and time for you to say goodbye. Additional costs may apply for travel, after-hours visits, or cremation, depending on your preferences.
How long will the procedure take?
Most appointments last about 30–45 minutes, but there’s no strict time limit. Dr. Danielle will move at your and your pet’s pace. The sedation takes a few minutes to take full effect, and the final injection is administered only when your pet is fully relaxed and asleep.
Will Dr. Danielle take my pet with her after the appointment?
Yes, if you’ve chosen cremation as your aftercare option, Dr. Danielle will gently transport your pet to a trusted local crematory. She will confirm your selection during the appointment and ensure everything is handled respectfully. If you’ve selected private cremation, she will also explain how and when your pet’s ashes will be returned to you.
What aftercare options are available?
Aftercare options include: Private cremation — your pet is cremated individually, and their ashes are returned to you. Communal cremation — your pet is cremated with others, and ashes are not returned. Customer-arranged aftercare — you may choose to make your own arrangements, such as home burial (where permitted) or using a crematorium of your choice.
How does cremation work?
After your appointment, Dr. Danielle arranges transport to the crematory. In a private cremation, your pet is cremated individually, and their ashes are returned in a simple urn (or a custom urn if selected). In communal cremation, ashes are not returned.
Can I keep a part of my pet's fur or get a paw print?
Yes. Dr. Danielle can save a lock of fur and create a clay paw print upon request. Please mention this ahead of time so she can prepare the materials.
Can I make special arrangements for aftercare?
Yes. You are welcome to make your own arrangements with a crematory or memorial provider of your choice.
Can I transport my pet myself for cremation?
Yes. If you would prefer to personally transport your pet to the crematorium, Dr. Danielle can provide guidance and directions.
Can I bury my pet at home?
Yes, if permitted by local regulations. Dr. Danielle can offer advice on selecting a peaceful spot and ensuring proper burial depth and protection.
Can my pet be cremated with personal items?
Small items like a favorite toy, blanket, or letter may sometimes be included with private cremation. Restrictions vary by crematory, so it’s important to ask in advance.
Can I witness the cremation?
Some crematories allow witnessing of private cremations. If this is important to you, Dr. Danielle can assist in making the arrangements.
Can my pet's ashes be divided among family members?
Yes. Upon request, ashes from private cremations can be divided into multiple urns or keepsakes.
What should I expect after my pet passes?
Grief after losing a pet can bring sadness, guilt, relief, or even numbness. Everyone processes loss differently, and all feelings are normal. Allow yourself time and space to grieve.
How long will my grief last?
There is no set timeline. Some people feel better within weeks; for others, healing may take months or longer. Your relationship with your pet was unique — your grief will be too.
Is it normal to feel guilty or second-guess the decision?
Yes. Many families experience guilt or “what if” thoughts even when they made the most compassionate choice. Talking with a counselor or trusted friend can help ease these feelings.
Should I get another pet right away?
There’s no right or wrong answer. Some people find comfort in adopting again quickly; others prefer to wait. Trust your instincts and take the time you need.
Can children grieve differently than adults?
Yes. Children may grieve through behavior rather than words — asking repeated questions, acting out, or seeming unaffected at first. Honest, age-appropriate communication and reassurance are important.