Euthanasia Policy

The Home Animal Doctor does not perform "convenience euthanasia." What this means to you is that in order to have euthanasia services performed your pet must have a diagnosis or such a poor quality of life that medical intervention could not alleviate. For example, "kidney failure" is a diagnosis whereas "old age" is not.  Euthanasia is a service used only to help end the suffering of a pet. We realize that "suffering" is subjective, but in order for it to be appreciated, a diagnosis and a prognosis (i.e. how long a pet is expected to live with proper treatment) must be established.

If no diagnosis has been made prior to the request of euthanasia services, the Home Animal Doctor will suggest a physical examination and possibly a basic blood and urine test. If it is determined that the pet has a poor prognosis even with treatment then a euthanasia procedure may be performed. However, if the pet's diagnosis is not considered to negatively affect their quality of life, the Home Animal Doctor reserves the right to decline euthanasia services. In this case, treatment will be recommended, or in the event the owner does not wish to keep the pet, "relinquishment" to a new home will be recommended and resources to help owners do so may be given upon request.

We believe all pets deserve the right to access high quality medical care down to their very last day. Thank you for your understanding.