Saying goodbye.

We understand how difficult it is to say goodbye to a beloved pet. This information is intended to help guide you through what happens during a euthanasia appointment, so you can feel as prepared and supported as possible during this emotional time.

Aftercare options

• Home burial
• Standard cremation (no return of ashes)
• Individual cremation

We have a leaflet with more details about these options including costs of each option. Please let us know if you want to see this in advance of your appointment.

We also offer to take pawprints of your pet if you wish for a small fee.

If you opt for individual cremation, we usually receive your pet's ashes back within 2-3 weeks and will contact you as soon as they are back with us.

• Sedation (if needed)If your pet is anxious or in discomfort, we may offer a sedative beforehand to help them relax.

During the procedure

• You can stayYou are welcome to stay with your pet throughout. Some people choose to be present; others prefer to say goodbye beforehand. We will support whichever choice feels right for you.
• The euthanasia injectionThe vet will take your pet round into our prep room so that a nurse can assist placing an intravenous cannula. This usually only takes a few minutes. The vet will then bring your pet back into the consulting room and when you are ready will then administer the injection through the pre-placed cannula. This is a painless injection that works very quickly as an anaesthetic overdose: your pet will gently drift into a deep sleep and then pass away.
• Peaceful passingYour pet will not be aware or in distress. Sometimes there may be natural reflexes such as a sigh, twitching, or release of the bladder or bowels after the heart has stopped. The eyes of your pet do not naturally close. This is all completely normal and does not mean your pet is in pain.

Taking time afterwards

You are welcome to stay with your pet for a little while after the procedure. We will give you privacy and time to grieve. Please don't feel rushed, this moment is yours.

Bereavement support

Grief takes time, and everyone copes differently. If you need support, you're not alone:

We're here for you

Please let us know if you have any special wishes or concerns. We want to make this process as gentle and as smooth as possible for both you and your pet.

If you have any questions before or after your appointment, don't hesitate to contact us on 01869 252077.

With heartfelt sympathy,
The Bicester Vets Team

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