Question 1

What is in home pet euthanasia, and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

In home pet euthanasia allows your pet to pass away peacefully in the comfort of your home surrounded by love. A compassionate veterinarian will provide end-of-life care for your pet starting with an initial end-of-life exam followed by sedation to ensure your pet is comfortable. Your vet will always move at your pace so you have the time you need to say your goodbyes. Once you are ready, your vet will administer medication to help them gently and painlessly say goodbye surrounded by comfort and love.

Question 2

How do I tell if my pet is suffering?

Accepted Answer

Recognizing pain and suffering in an animal can be challenging. Animals do not express pain in the same ways as humans, who will cry out, ask for help, shed tears, or generally draw attention to themselves. The wild instincts of our animal friends tell them that outward expressions of pain are dangerous. This is especially pronounced in cats, pocket pets, and exotics, who will hide pain for as long as possible. Recognizing what is normal when your pet is at peak health can help you recognize differences that may indicate that they are suffering. While every animal is different, there are common signs seen in most pets which can indicate that they are not feeling well, especially in combination.

Decrease in physical activity- While decreased activity can be part of normal aging, that does not mean it should be ignored. Especially if the change in physical activity is sudden. Many pets will choose to move less if they are in pain, and this may be the first change seen in animals with arthritis, muscle or tendon injury, or more serious conditions. If your pet is showing a decrease in activity, evaluation by a veterinarian can help identify issues which may improve their quality of life or identify serious conditions early.

Mobility- A decrease in physical activity to slowly or suddenly morph into a mobility issue. To have a good quality-of-life, pets need to be able to stand up, walk, and lie down on their own. This allows them to care for most basic bodily functions, including the ability to eat, drink, groom, relieve themselves, and to participate in activities they enjoy. Mobility issues can stem from neurological or musculoskeletal diseases, but regardless of cause, inability to move comfortably is a frustrating and painful experience for a pet.

Extracurriculars- “He used to love chasing the ball,” and similar phrases are common to hear when I talk with clients about quality of life. While many of us recognize that loss of interest in hobbies can be a sign of suffering in humans, it may not be the first thing that comes to mind with our pets. However, mental stimulation and enjoyment of life are important to consider in an animal's quality-of-life. What are your pet's favorite things to do? Play fetch? Follow the kids upstairs? Go on walks? Play with their toys? Snuggle up with you in bed? Each pet is different. If an animal is no longer motivated to partake in the things they enjoy most, it is often an indication of pain or suffering.

Changes in appetite or diet- Some pets are picky grazers and others count the seconds to their next meal. It is usually easier to spot when something is “off” with the latter, but knowing and monitoring the eating habits of all pets is important. If they stop eating regularly or will only eat with "high motivation" food (special treats instead of their regular diet), this is often an indication that something is amiss. Many pets are not motivated to eat when they are uncomfortable. Animals with significant or total loss of appetite should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Changes in weight- Obesity is the top ranked health ailment of today's cats and dogs. Sometimes, sudden weight loss is initially thought to be a good thing. However, if your pet is losing weight with no change in daily physical activity or diet, something may be wrong. Many illnesses, especially in older animals, can cause weight loss by increasing calorie needs, reducing absorption of food, or changing their metabolism. Weighing your pet or assessing their body condition score regularly can help you track concerning trends in weight, as sometimes weight loss is not obvious in fluffy animals.

Poor coat/lack of grooming- A healthy animal usually has a full, thick, and shiny coat. Some species like cats or birds will groom or preen themselves as normal behavior. If your pet's coat starts to become dull, thin, less soft, or is losing hair, this can be a sign of declining health. A healthy animal can express the behaviors and process the nutrients it needs to maintain a good coat. Loss of grooming behavior and decline in coat quality are indicators that a pet is not well.

Bathroom habits-A healthy animal can control its bowels and go to the bathroom in their designated area without soiling themselves. Most species of animals kept as pets naturally keep bodily waste areas separate from their "living" areas, so if they now are unable to separate the two, it is a sign something is wrong. If a pet is incontinent or can no longer physically move to avoid soiling themselves, this is a serious problem. Soiling themselves can lead to urine scald, infections, and worse suffering. Some animals, especially dogs, may also suffer emotional distress from using the bathroom in the “wrong” area.

Isolation- Isolation in normally social animals can be serious as this is a large indicator of pain. Common places to hide include under the bed, in a closet, behind the couch, or hard to access areas of the home. Isolation can indicate they are in so much pain, they just want to be left alone. If a normally social dog or cat starts isolating themselves, it is a red flag.
Behavioral Changes- There are other behaviors that can change in a pet when they are suffering. Sometimes, if a pet becomes painful they will become more aggressive to people they know or even start to bite. It can be their way of communicating, “I am in pain, please don’t touch me.” Diseases with a neurologic origins can cause abnormal behavior in pets. In old age, senility is a possibility as well. I often hear that an older pet seems to not recognize people, gets lost, seems confused, stands listlessly for long periods, can’t seem to relax, or is restless at night. If you notice behavioral changes in your animal, it is prudent to contact your veterinarian for a consultation.

Question 3

What should I do if my pet is declining fast?

Accepted Answer

If your pet's health is declining rapidly, it’s crucial to take the following steps:

Consult Your Veterinarian: Schedule an appointment to discuss your observations and any scoring from a quality-of-life scale. This information can help guide the conversation about your pet's condition and options moving forward. Your vet may suggest palliative care, hospice, or, if necessary, euthanasia.

Ensure Comfort: Create a quiet, cozy space with soft bedding and easy access to food, water, and a litter box (if applicable).

Minimize Stress: Keep routines simple and familiar, and limit loud noises or disruptions.

Offer Gentle Care: Provide a soothing touch through gentle petting and offer favorite treats if they can still eat.

Consider At-Home Euthanasia: If appropriate, discuss the option of at-home euthanasia with your vet for a peaceful and familiar passing.

Reach Out for Support: It's okay to lean on loved ones, pet-loss support groups, or counselors to help navigate this difficult time.

If you're noticing signs of declining health, we encourage you to use our quality of life scale assessment to evaluate your pet's condition before your vet visit.

Question 4

What is the difference between in home pet euthanasia and euthanasia at a vet clinic?

Accepted Answer

The key difference is the setting. At home euthanasia allows your pet to pass peacefully in the comfort of their familiar surroundings, reducing stress and anxiety. This option especially benefits pets who may feel scared or uncomfortable traveling to a clinic. It also offers your family a private, intimate experience during this emotional time. While some urgent situations don’t allow for time to schedule in-home euthanasia, many pet owners in Stillwater choose in-home services for the peaceful atmosphere and compassionate care their pets receive right where they feel safest. You can find flexible availability for our local vets here, or look for same-day euthanasia appointments.

Question 5

Will my pet experience any pain during euthanasia?

Accepted Answer

No, pet euthanasia at home is designed to be completely painless. After an initial end-of-life assessment, your veterinarian will first administer a sedative to ensure your pet is relaxed and comfortable. The euthanasia medication then gently stops the heart without causing pain. The process is peaceful and allows your pet to pass without distress.

Question 6

Is there a service provider for in home pet euthanasia near me?

Accepted Answer

We have a network of compassionate veterinarians serving many cities across the US who provide pet euthanasia at home for your beloved dog, cat, or other pets. You can find a local vet near you in the next 7 days or call 833-263-2738 to get help from our customer care team.

Question 7

Is there an additional fee for after-hours or emergency services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is typically an additional fee for after-hours or emergency appointments. You can view the estimate when you request a same-day or urgent appointment.

Question 8

How much does in home euthanasia cost for pets in my area?

Accepted Answer

The cost of in home pet euthanasia can vary in Stillwater and the surrounding areas. Once you have picked your provider, the cost will usuallydepend on your pet’s size and any additional services you may choose, such as cremation, keepsakes, or other services. Our services start with a base fee of $305 for in home euthanasia. If your vet is traveling further than their local area, there is a travel fee applied based on how far you are from them. At CodaPet, we believe in giving you complete transparency and control over what you are choosing for your pet’s end-of-life care. This is why you can view a detailed price estimate before you complete reserving a time with your local vet. You can view flexible availability and detailed pricing or request a same-day appointment if this is more urgent. If you have any further questions, you can view our FAQs or reach us (833) 263 - 2738.

Question 9

Is the cost of euthanasia for dogs and cats the same?

Accepted Answer

Most providers in Stillwater charge a flat fee for euthanasia, although some providers do charge based on the size of your pet, so small dogs and cats can be the same price; however, medium or large-size dogs (such as Bulldogs, Australian Shepherds, Labradors, or German Shepherds) will likely carry a higher price. At CodaPet, most vets charge a flat fee for both dogs and cats; however, if there is a large pet fee, it will be applied automatically for you to review in the price estimate when you reserve an appointment. You can view the detailed pricing and availability here or call us at (833) 263 - 2738.

Question 10

What should I expect during an in home pet euthanasia appointment?

Accepted Answer

Prior to their visit, the veterinarian may contact you to get a medical history so that they can plan for your visit. If you have any concerns or special needs, be sure to mention them. Please also let the veterinarian know if the animal has bitten anyone recently so they can plan to make the appointment as safe and stress-free as possible. We recognize that animals who are suffering may have changes in behavior and may lash out if they are in pain.The veterinarian will greet you at your door and will meet your pet. They will review the medical history of the animal with you and perform a minimally invasive physical exam. After they have evaluated the pet, the veterinarian will have a conversation with you about the process of humane euthanasia (rarely, they may recommend against euthanasia and will provide additional recommendations). Once the veterinarian and the responsible parties for the pet have agreed that they would like to move forward, the veterinarian will give you some time with your pet while they make preparations. The veterinarian will discuss aftercare options, including cremation and burial, and then will have you sign a form to confirm your choices and have you provide consent. Anyone present is welcome to ask questions at any point during or after the appointment. Based on their evaluation and the history of the animal, the veterinarian will craft a sedation and anesthetic protocol for the pet. Their goal is to keep the pet as comfortable as possible, so they can gently fall asleep in the comfort of their home with their family. After the pet has reached a deep enough plane of anesthesia, they will administer the euthanasia solution, which is essentially an overdose of an anesthetic agent which allows the body to come to rest and stop the heart. The family is welcome to be present or leave the room at any point during the procedure.

Question 11

How far in advance do I need to make an appointment?

Accepted Answer

The notice for every veterinarian differs, however, most veterinarians require at least a 3-hour notice from the time you need them to arrive at your home. This allows them time to prepare and ensure they can provide the highest level of care and compassion for your pet. It also accounts for their travel time, as your veterinarian may be traveling from many different locations around Stillwater.

While you can request a same-day and emergency services, it's always best to contact us as early as possible to ensure availability and to give both you and your veterinarian time to prepare for this important moment.

Question 12

What should I expect in terms of my pet’s behavior during the pet euthanasia process?

Accepted Answer

During the euthanasia process, your pet will be gently guided to a state of peace and comfort. After a sedative is administered, you can expect them to become calm and relaxed, free from any pain or distress. When the final injection is given, your pet will slowly drift off into a deep sleep before passing away peacefully. Your compassionate veterinarian will ensure the process is as gentle and serene as possible, allowing you to be present with your beloved companion in their final moments of love and care.

Question 13

Can I be with my pet during the euthanasia process?

Accepted Answer

Yes, during the in home euthanasia process, you are encouraged to be with your pet throughout the entire process. Being there provides comfort and reassurance to your pet as they pass peacefully.

Question 14

How do I know when it’s time to consider euthanasia for my pet?

Accepted Answer

Recognizing when your pet is suffering and deciding when it is “too much” can be a difficult, and very personal, decision. Sometimes change occurs quickly or all-at-once, and it is easy to make a decision. Other times change is gradual and it can be difficult to decide when their quality of life is no longer good enough. Even if you can logically list out reasons, euthanasia is still an emotional and extremely difficult decision. I find that it can be helpful to take an objective approach by preparing a list which includes basic life functions and your pet’s favorite things to do. Could they go down the stairs into the backyard today? Were they excited to play with their toy? At the very minimum, are they eating, drinking, able to move on their own, or go to the bathroom without soiling themselves or having accidents? Many owners find it helpful to track good days and bad days on a calendar, and decide to euthanize when they start having more bad days than good days. CodaPet has a quality of life assessment that gives an objective quality of life score, which can help you decide if your pet has a good quality of life, should be evaluated by your regular veterinarian, or has reached the point where humane euthanasia should be considered. There are other organizations with free quality of life assessments, as well. Regardless of how you measure it, when the negatives of daily life outweigh the positives, it can be a compassionate decision to consider humane euthanasia to relieve your pet’s suffering

Question 15

How should I prepare my home for my pet’s euthanasia?

Accepted Answer

Everyone’s experience in saying goodbye to their beloved companion is different and very personal. It’s important to consider that you know your pet best. Some considerations, however, are choosing a comfortable space where your pet feels safe, sometimes their favorite spot in your home. Another consideration can be to gather any family members who wish to be present and feel free to bring your pet’s favorite blanket or toys, etc that make them feel comfortable. When your veterinarian arrives they will guide you through each step in the process and help you move at your pace to ensure the process is as peaceful as possible.

Question 16

How long does the euthanasia procedure typically take?

Accepted Answer

The appointment usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour. Each pet is unique, illness can affect how quickly and effectively sedatives and anesthetics work, and sometimes it can take a little longer to make certain that they are not suffering. Your veterinarian will be present with you and your pet for as long as you need to ensure that you are comfortable with the decision and process.

Question 17

What should I do after the euthanasia procedure is completed?

Accepted Answer

After the euthanasia, you are welcome to spend as much time as you need with your pet to say goodbye. If you’ve chosen any cremation services to handle your pet’s body, your veterinarian will reconfirm your choices and gently transport your pet when you are ready. If you’ve chosen any keepsakes offered by the crematorium, like Claw Paw Prints, Ink nose prints, or other memorabilia, your veterinarian will reconfirm your choices before leaving your home. If you have any questions or want to change your mind about any of your choices, you can discuss your options with your veterinarian before they leave your home.

Question 18

What are my options for cremation?

Accepted Answer

After the in home euthanasia procedure, your veterinarian will provide you with time to say goodbye to your pet. Once you're ready, they will re-confirm the preferred aftercare option that you choose when reserving your time with your veterinarian. In Stillwater you can select two types of cremation services:

Individual Cremation (Ashes Returned): An individual cremation is a process where your pet will be cremated separated with physical barriers in the chamber. This ensures the separation with other pets in the chamber so you may reunite with your pet’s ashes. Your pet’s ashes will be returned to you in an urn of your choice. If you choose an additional urn then your pet’s ashes will be returned in the urn of your choice.

Communal Cremation (No Ashes Returned): A communal cremation is a process where your pet is cremated in a chamber with other pets. Once the process is complete, the crematorium will respectfully scatter your pet’s remains among other pets. It’s important to note, you pet’s ashes will not be returned to you.

Some of our veterinarians offer an additional option known as Private Cremation (Ashes Returned). In this option, only your pet is in the cremation chamber, ensuring that the recovered ashes are solely your pet's. These ashes can be returned in an urn of your choice, with additional urn options available. To see if private cremation is available with your provider, please refer to our booking page.

Dr. Cara Gordon provides several cremation options for pet owners:
"Clients have the option of individual cremation, communal cremation, or home burial. I use All Paws go to Heaven based in Guthrie. They are a privately-owned, small business, run by a kind and compassionate team. I visit their facility and am in contact with the employees on a regular basis. They go above and beyond to take care of my clients. They are animal lovers and understand how important it is that the remains of your pet are treated with dignity, and provide a number of options for urns or keepsakes if the family does not want all of the ashes returned. When I lost my own dog, they were the crematorium I trusted to take care of his remains, and they were wonderfully kind and respectful." - Dr. Cara Gordon, DVM

Note: If you choose to leave your pet's body with your veterinarian, rest assured it will be handled with the utmost care, respect, and dignity. Your veterinarian will coordinate all aftercare arrangements as requested, allowing you to focus on yourself and your family after this difficult goodbye.

Question 19

How do I get my pet’s ashes back?

Accepted Answer

Your veterinarian will coordinate the return of your pet’s ashes before they leave your home. Your options include having your pet’s remains delivered by your veterinarian (for an additional fee), shipping them to you (for an additional fee), or picking them up from your primary clinic or the crematorium.

Question 20

Are there any low-cost or no-cost pet euthanasia solutions?

Accepted Answer

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, and we understand that cost can be a concern for many pet parents. While we specialize in premium in-home euthanasia services, we also want to acknowledge that cost may be a concern. If you're looking for low-cost or no-cost pet euthanasia options in Stillwater, consider reaching out to the following:

Local Animal Shelters & Humane Societies – Many provide low-cost or donation-based euthanasia services, often with cremation options.

Low-Cost Veterinary Clinics & Nonprofits – Some vet clinics and nonprofits offer reduced-cost euthanasia, sometimes supported by grants or donations.

Trinity Veterinary Hospital
3100 N. Perkins Road, Stillwater, OK 74075
405-533-0001

Animal Control Services – In certain cases, local animal control agencies may offer euthanasia services for terminally ill or suffering pets at a lower cost.

Note: When considering a low-cost pet euthanasia option, it's important to call ahead to check availability, as some providers may require an appointment or have eligibility criteria, such as income-based assistance. Be sure to ask about additional costs, including cremation or aftercare services, which may not be included in the base price. Additionally, verify service details, as some options may have restrictions based on your pet’s size, health condition, or location.

While low-cost options are available, many pet parents choose in-home euthanasia to ensure a peaceful, stress-free farewell in the comfort of their home. If you're looking for a private, compassionate experience, we’re here to help.

Question 21

Who is the veterinarian providing at-home pet euthanasia services in Stillwater?

Accepted Answer

If you're searching for at-home pet euthanasia in Stillwater and the surrounding areas, you're in compassionate hands with our local veterinarian. Below, you can learn more about her professional journey and what inspired her to offer peaceful in-home euthanasia services.

Dr. Cara Gordon has been drawn to animals for as long as she can remember. Her natural curiosity and desire to care for them led her to pursue both her undergraduate and veterinary degrees at Oklahoma State University, where she earned her DVM in 2022. Though she has spent time in Texas and California, she now calls Oklahoma home.

With a deep commitment to providing gentle, compassionate care, Dr. Gordon is honored to help families through one of life’s most difficult moments. She believes that allowing pets to pass peacefully at home, surrounded by love, is one of the kindest gifts we can offer our animal companions. To hear from other pet parents about their experiences with Dr. Gordon, visit her profile.

Question 22

Do You Offer In-Home Euthanasia for Pets Other Than Dogs and Cats?

Accepted Answer

At this time, our local veterinarian is only able to offer in-home euthanasia services for dogs and cats in the Stillwater and surrounding areas.

We truly understand that every pet, no matter the species, holds a special place in your heart. While we are unable to assist with other species locally, we’re honored to help connect you with a trusted provider who can.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Care Team at (833) 263-2738. We’ll do our best to connect you with someone who can help and ensure your pet receives the compassionate care they deserve.

Question 23

Do You Offer Deceased Pet Pick-Up Services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer deceased pet pick-up services in Stillwater and the surrounding areas. If your pet has passed away at home and you need assistance, our local vet can come to your residence to gently and respectfully transport them for aftercare.

Should you wish to proceed with cremation, we offer both communal and private options, along with a selection of urns and memorial keepsakes to help you honor your beloved companion in a way that feels right for you. Cremation services start at $60, depending on your preferences and your pet’s size.

If you're unsure about the next steps or need support, our Care Team is here to help. Please don’t hesitate to call us at (833) 263-2738 — we’re here to guide you with empathy and clarity during this difficult time.

Compassionate pet euthanasia in Stillwater, OK

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