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Paws at Rest FAQs

There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team. Below are some answers to our most common questions.

Appointment

Frequently asked questions

We hope some of this information helps shed some light regarding your dog or cat’s quality of life and what will ensure the peaceful and dignified passing your pet deserves.

How will I know when it’s time?

This can be a very difficult and personal decision. Sometimes, it can be challenging to determine when it is the right time. In general, these are some of the changes you may be noticing that can be indicators of decreasing quality of life:

  • Loss of interest in activities that your pet used to enjoy
  • Hiding/isolating themselves or seeming less interested in their surroundings or other family members
  • Confusion, apathy, anxiety, or other behavioral changes
  • Lower energy levels
  • Decreased mobility; pain and stiffness
  • Urinary or fecal incontinence, accidents, or difficulty using the bathroom unassisted
  • Lack of grooming (cats mostly, sometimes in dogs)
  • Changes in breathing patterns or increased effort to breathe
  • Significant change in appetite or thirst levels
  • Having more bad days than good days. It can be helpful to start marking this on a calendar every day to be able to keep track of how your pet is doing over time.

Please visit our resources for some additional tools to assist you in assessing your pet’s quality of life.

Should children be present?

You know your child(ren) best, but in general, we welcome and encourage children to be part of the process so long as they will not be upsetting or distracting to your pet or to you. Many children handle witnessing the process well, and it can help them to better understand what has happened.

Please visit this article about kids and grief for more information.

Should other pets be present?

It can be very helpful for other pets to be present as it can facilitate their understanding of what has transpired and can lessen the time they may spend searching for their friend. However, if the pets do not get along well or if you think the other pet(s) could pose a distraction to either you or the pet we are assisting, then it may be best to keep them in a separate area of the home until the visit has concluded. You may choose to then have them see their furry friend after they have passed.

How should I prepare for my appointment?

If your pet is mobile and able, it can be helpful to allow them a chance to relieve their bladder or bowels shortly before the appointment. If your pet is still eating, you may also want to have their favorite snack or treat available to help distract them when the sedative is administered. Treats like peanut butter and squeeze cheese also work well.

How long is an appointment?

An appointment typically will run from 30-60 minutes, but this can vary based on the individual situation.

How far in advance should I schedule?

Many appointments are scheduled 24-48 hours in advance. We can schedule an appointment as far as a month out. We will also do our best to accommodate same-day requests but these are not guaranteed.