La Fin Veterinary
How Pet Euthanasia Services Work
Learn about the details of the end-of-life care process for our beloved companions.
Schedule an Appointment
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Contacting us as early as you can helps both us and your family prepare for the appointment. We can answer your questions, provide an estimate upon request, schedule an appointment, and discuss aftercare cremation options. Payment can be completed before or at an appointment through credit card, cash, or check.
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For the fastest reply, fill out the Contact Us Form.
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You can also text or call (657) 200-1009. Please note phone response will be the slowest. The veterinary team may be helping fellow families at the time of your call, and Dr. Charlie is often on the road. The team will get back to you as soon as possible. We thank you for your patience as we try to help as many families as we can.
Get Advice from Dr. Charlie
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We understand the topic of death can be overwhelming and confusing when navigating the decision and process of Pet Euthanasia.
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Consider getting advice directly from veterinarian Dr. Charlie in a consultation for his insight and experience. See Options for Consultation.
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Many clients are simply looking for help determining the "when." Learn about the Quality of Life Assessment.
Pet Euthanasia Appointment
How to Prepare for the Appointment
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You may want to take some time to think about what you want for your pet's Aftercare (cremation and urn).
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Inform fellow loved ones. They are welcome to be at the appointment in-person or virtually, perhaps FaceTime or video chat options.
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Pick a comfortable place for the appointment. Feel free to bring your pet's favorite items, treats or toys.
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Think about emotional support resources and ways to remember and honor your pet.
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The appointment is flexible. They can be as short as 15 minutes, if desired. Typical appointments are about 30-40 minutes.
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Dr. Charlie will give you a call to let you know when he's on the way. Windows of arrival are typically a half hour. For example, a 10:30 a.m. appointment can expect an arrival time between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30a.m.).
What Happens at the Appointment
When Dr. Charlie arrives, he will share the process and answer any questions or concerns you have. If euthanasia is warranted and agreed upon, he will administer pain, anxiolytic, and sedative medications to help your pet relax and ensure their comfort. This relaxation typically takes between 5-10 minutes, but can be shorter or longer for some pets.
You're welcomed to love on your pet, play a favorite song, speak or read a prayer, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment with your loved ones. Dr. Charlie will prepare a clay paw print and/or fur clipping at your request.
Dr. Charlie will advise you and your family once your pet is relaxed. Dr. Charlie will announce before preparing for, or proceeding with, your pet's euthanasia transition. Once this process begins, pets will be at peace usually in about 3-5 minutes. Dr. Charlie will let you know the time of passing.
Aftercare Cremation Coordination
Once your pet's body is at rest, Dr. Charlie will coordinate the aftercare wishes discussed with you when you scheduled the appointment or when you let us know at the appointment.
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Type of cremation: Traditional Cremation or Aquamation
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How remains are processed:
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Private/Individual Cremation: Your pet's ashes are returned back to your family.
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We can take on customizations requested for urn options, but they require additional time.
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Group Cremation: Ashes mixed with other pets and then typically taken to the ocean to be scattered
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If you choose private/individual cremation, the ashes are returned to you. You can choose to:
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Have cremains mailed to you. Tracking and signature required will be part of the mailed package.
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Have cremains hand-delivered to you by Dr. Charlie or one of our associates. Fees applies and may require additional time.
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