Saying goodbye to a much-loved dog or cat is one of the hardest parts of sharing our lives with them. Many owners in Canterbury now choose to say that goodbye at home, somewhere familiar and calm, surrounded by family. This guide explains what at-home euthanasia involves, how to know when it may be time, what your cremation and aftercare options are, and where to find support. We've written it with care, and we hope it helps if you're facing this decision now or want to be prepared.
Why choose euthanasia at home?
- Less stress for your pet. No car trip, no waiting room and no unfamiliar smells. This matters most for pets who get anxious at the vet.
- Easier for pets with limited mobility. Older or unwell pets who struggle to walk or travel can stay comfortable in their own bed.
- Time and privacy for your family. You can say goodbye at your own pace, without feeling rushed, and grieve in private afterwards.
- Everyone can be there. Children, family members and even your other pets can be present if you wish.
- Their favourite place. On the couch, in their bed, or outside in a sunny spot in the garden.
How do I know when it's time?
There's rarely a perfect moment, and most owners worry about whether they're deciding too early or too late. These questions can help:
- Is my pet still eating and drinking?
- Are they in pain, or struggling to breathe?
- Can they get up, move around and go to the toilet without distress?
- Do they still enjoy the things they love, like a walk, a cuddle or a favourite treat?
- Are there now more bad days than good days?
Some owners find it helps to mark each day on a calendar as good or bad. When the bad days start to outnumber the good, it may be time to talk to a vet. Many vets say it's kinder to choose a peaceful goodbye a little early than to wait for a crisis.
You don't have to make this decision alone. A vet can help you assess your pet's quality of life and talk through your options.
Loved Pets At Home Pet Euthanasia
Loved Pets provides peaceful, compassionate at-home euthanasia for dogs, cats and other small animals across Christchurch and North Canterbury. The service is run by Dr Janine Cumming, a veterinarian with more than 20 years' experience.
- A free, no-obligation phone call. If you're unsure whether it's time, Loved Pets offers a free call to talk through your pet's quality of life and your options.
- Care at your pace. The vet meets you and your pet, goes through the paperwork and explains each step before anything happens. Your family sets the pace, and there's no rush.
- Family welcome. As many or as few people as you'd like can be present.
- Cremation and aftercare. Loved Pets can take your pet to the crematorium at the time, or arrange collection later if you'd like more time with them. Private cremation with ashes returned to you is one of the options available.
- Grief support. Their website has a page of grief information and resources.
To book or talk through your options, call or text Loved Pets on 021 261 3600. You can also visit the Loved Pets website or message Loved Pets on Facebook. If you’d prefer something to take home and read in your own time, Janine’s brochures and business cards are available at Premium Petfood on High Street, Oxford.
What happens on the day?
Every vet works a little differently, and they'll explain their process to you beforehand. Generally, your pet is given a sedative first, so they're relaxed and sleepy. Once they're deeply asleep, the vet gives a final injection, and your pet passes away peacefully, usually within a few minutes. You're welcome to stroke and talk to them the whole time.
It can help to know that your pet's eyes may stay open, and you might see a twitch or a deep breath afterwards. These are normal reflexes, not signs of pain.
Preparing for a peaceful goodbye
- Choose the spot. Their own bed or a favourite blanket, somewhere quiet. Have an old towel underneath.
- Plan a special last day, if your pet is well enough. A gentle sniff around the garden, time in the sun, or their favourite food. Ask your vet first if your pet has a medical condition that affects what they can eat.
- Decide who will be there, and whether you'd like time alone with your pet before or after.
- Think about aftercare in advance, so you don't have to make decisions in the moment.
- Consider a keepsake, like a clipping of fur, a paw print in clay, or their collar and tag.
Cremation or burial?
Private cremation means your pet is cremated on their own and their ashes are returned to you. Many families scatter them in a favourite walking spot, plant a tree, or keep them at home.
Home burial is another choice for some families. If you're thinking about it, check your local council's rules first, choose a spot well away from waterways and services, and make sure the grave is deep enough that other animals can't disturb it. Burial may not be practical if you're renting or might move house, so cremation is often the easier option.
Helping children and other pets
Children: Use honest, simple words like "died", and avoid phrases like "put to sleep", which can confuse or frighten young children. Let them say goodbye in their own way, perhaps by drawing a picture or writing a letter. Let them see you're sad too.
Other pets: Some pets seem to understand better if they're allowed to see and sniff their companion after they've passed. Keep their routine as normal as possible in the weeks afterwards, and give them extra attention. Some pets go off their food or become clingy for a while.
Looking after yourself
Grief for a pet is real grief. It's normal to feel sadness, guilt, relief, or all three at once, especially if your pet was unwell for a long time. Be kind to yourself, talk to people who understand, and take the time you need. If your grief feels overwhelming or doesn't ease, talk to your GP or a counsellor. The Loved Pets grief resources are a good place to start.
Caring for your pet in their senior years
If your pet is getting older but still enjoying life, our guides to signs your cat is entering their senior years and transitioning your dog to a senior diet can help you keep them comfortable for as long as possible.
We're here for you
As pet owners ourselves, we know how hard this time is. If you'd like a chat, call or pop into our Oxford store. And if you have unopened food or treats you no longer need, talk to us, and we can suggest local rescues and shelters who would put them to good use.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. For advice about your own pet, talk to your vet or contact Loved Pets directly. Service details are based on the Loved Pets website at the time of writing.