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Saying goodbye to a much-loved pet is one of the hardest moments we face as owners. At Gippsland Veterinary Group, our goal is to make this transition as gentle, peaceful and supported as possible. We are here to help you navigate the difficult decisions with compassion, whether through palliative care to extend comfort or euthanasia when it is the kindest choice.
END-OF-LIFE CARE
EUTHANASIA & PALLIATIVE SUPPORT; IN-CLINIC OR AT HOME
PALLIATIVE CARE: COMFORT AND DIGNITY
Palliative care is focused on quality of life rather than cure. It may be appropriate when:
- Your pet is living with a long-term, incurable illness
- Active treatment is no longer effective or is causing more discomfort
- You wish to maximise comfort, mobility and time together in a loving way
Our vets can support you with:
- Pain management and anti-inflammatory medication
- Appetite support, anti-nausea therapy and hydration advice
- Environmental and lifestyle adjustments to improve daily comfort
- Regular check-ins to assess your pet’s wellbeing and adapt the care plan
Palliative care can give families precious extra time, while ensuring pets remain comfortable and respected. We will also guide you in recognising when euthanasia may become the more compassionate option.
EUTHANASIA: WHAT TO EXPECT
Discussion and decision
We will first meet with you to discuss your pet’s condition and your preferences. You may choose to proceed at one of our clinics or in the comfort of your own home.
Sedation and calm
In most cases, your pet is given a gentle sedative to ease any anxiety and help them relax. This allows their final moments to be calm and stress-free.
The euthanasia injection
A painless injection is administered by your vet. Your pet quickly falls into a deep sleep before their heart stops. The process is swift, humane and peaceful.
Time to say goodbye
You and your family may remain with your pet as long as you wish afterwards. We provide space, privacy and support.
Aftercare arrangements
Once you are ready, we will assist with aftercare according to your preferences, whether cremation, burial, or keepsakes.
IN-CLINIC AND AT-HOME OPTIONS
Euthanasia is available in all of our companion animal clinics across South Gippsland and Bass Coast. Some families prefer the quiet of a clinic setting, while others wish to say goodbye in their own home.
- In-clinic euthanasia allows access to full veterinary facilities and support.
- At-home euthanasia can be arranged if you would like your pet to remain in familiar surroundings. This option may reduce stress for pets who are unwell, anxious, or unable to travel.
We will discuss both options with you and help arrange what feels right for your family.
DISPOSAL & AFTERCARE
After saying goodbye, the next decision is how you would like your pet’s body cared for. We provide several respectful options:
- Home burial - You may choose to bury your pet at home if permitted by local council regulations. Our team can advise on this if needed.
- Communal cremation - Your pet is cremated with others, and ashes are not returned. This is a simpler, cost-effective option.
- Private cremation - Your pet is cremated individually, and their ashes are returned to you in your choice of receptacle.
- Keepsakes and receptacles - We can arrange for urns, scatter boxes, or memorial keepsakes such as paw prints, fur clippings, or remembrance cards.
These decisions are deeply personal. Our team will support you in choosing the option that feels most meaningful for your family.
SUPPORT AND NEXT STEPS
The decision to say goodbye is never easy, and grief can be overwhelming. Please know that our team is here to support you every step of the way.
If you would like to discuss palliative care, euthanasia, or aftercare options, please reach out to us.
You do not have to face this alone. Our compassionate team will guide you through, with respect for your wishes and love for your pet.
