24 hour contact: 020 7387 8134
End of life pet care
We know that saying goodbye to a beloved pet is not something any pet owner likes to think about but sadly making the decision to euthanise (put to sleep) is often the kindest one.
This page has been created to inform you about the euthanasia process, what you should expect and how we can support you through the experience.
Euthanasia means “a painless death”. It is one of the kindest and most selfless decisions you will ever make as it relieves pain and suffering.
Euthanasia – what to expect
The first step is the completion of the consent form. We will give you some time to read this over, sign and spend time with your pet alone. A blank copy of the consent form can be found here if you would like to read a copy in advance:
Next, it is usual for the vet to to insert an intravenous cannula into your pet's leg. The vet will usually take your pet into the treatment room so that the nurse can assist them with this. Payment is usually taken at this stage (we can arrange for the receptionist to come into the consulting room while you wait for the vet to return with your pet, so that you do not need to visit the main reception area).
When the vet returns to the consulting room with your pet you will have some time with your pet and the vet will describe the euthanasia process. If there is anything that you do not understand, please ask the vet who will be happy to explain further. Yourself and the vet will discuss where you would like the euthanasia to be performed - on the table, on the floor, in the pet carrier or on your knee/ in your arms. When everyone is ready, the vet will inject the euthanasia medication through the cannula. The euthanasia medication is a concentrated anaesthetic, so your pet will quickly fall asleep, and a few moments later, they will stop breathing and the heart will stop beating. We expect euthanasia to be a quick and peaceful procedure.
For some patients your vet may recommend sedation prior to euthanasia, or a slightly different way of injecting the euthanasia medicine (particularly for exotic pets).
Some reflexes can occur after your pet has passed away and these are completely normal.
These can include:
- their eyes remaining open afterwards
- wee or poo leaking out
- muscle twitching
- a sudden sharp intake of breath
These reflexes can be upsetting. Please be assured that they are normal occurrences and your pet is not aware of them happening. The vet will listen with a stethoscope to confirm your pet has passed away.
It is your decision if you wish to be present during the process. If you would prefer not to be present, or would like to be present but not hold your pet yourself when the injection is administered, our team can easily accommodate this.
If you would like to say a prayer or take a keepsake, such as their collar, a lock of fur or a paw print impression, please let us know. Our team will be sensitive to your needs.
After your pet has passed away
Following euthanasia, as a pet owner it is your decision as to what happens next to your pet’s body. The options available are:
Communal cremation – this means your pet will go to a pet crematorium* and be cremated with other pets. A token of the ashes are scattered in the crematorium memorial garden.
Individual cremation – this means your pet will go to the pet crematorium and be cremated individually. The ashes will be returned to you in a vessel of your choosing, for either scattering or keeping.
°®ÎÛ´«Ã½ burial – we are happy to assist you in carrying your pet to your vehicle if you wish to take your pet home to bury
Charges apply for cremation and individual cremation fees are significantly higher than those for communal cremation. Typical charges are outlined on the euthanasia consent form, a copy of which can be found at:
* The BSAH uses Pet Cremation Services in Surrey as a crematorium service provider. Further information regarding this crematorium is available at . If you would like to use a different provider - we ask that you liaise with them to make further arrangements for your pet.
Commemorating your pet - RVC Educational Memorial Programme
Some families choose to donate their pet’s body to aid future education and research. This helps both train future vets and supports advances in veterinary medicine. Let us know if you wish to discuss any of these options further. Your pet will be respectfully prepared and stored before being matched to RVC researchers and/or educators to help us treat animals in the future.
Please note that with this option your pet’s body will be cremated, neither the body nor the ashes can be returned to you. As a memorialisation gift, a pet tag with your pet’s name will be displayed on our paw prints in our hospital reception.
Unsure what to do or need to make further arrangements?
We are able to keep your pet for up to two weeks to allow you time to decide on cremation options or home burial. Please contact us as soon as possible once you have decided what you would like to do.
You can reach us on 0207 387 8134 or beaumont@rvc.ac.uk
Looking after you
It is normal to feel a mixture of emotions during this time. Our veterinary staff expect this and will be empathetic to this. Please do not be embarrassed if you are upset and please let us know what your wishes are during this difficult time.
We know it takes time to heal after the loss of a beloved pet, please talk to family and friends during this grieving period.
A dedicated pet bereavement service is provided by the Blue Cross and many of our clients have found this to be helpful. Further information can be found at
