Pet Euthanasia

When to Consider Pet Euthanasia in Murrieta

We recognize that determining when to think about euthanasia for pets is heartbreaking. Many loving pet owners struggle with the decision, especially when their pet has good days and bad days. But here are a few signs suggest your dog or cat may be suffering:

Common signs that it may be time to consider pet euthanasia include

  • Unmanageable Chronic Pain, You Are Unable to Relieve with Medications
  • No Appetite and Losing Weight
  • Uncontrollable Vomiting or Diarrhea
  • No Longer Engage in Activities They Most Enjoy, or Declining Activity in General
  • Difficulty Standing, Walking, or Ambulating

If a companion animal exhibits any of those signs, we recommend you make an appointment for pet euthanasia services in Murrieta to talk with one of our veterinarians. We will perform a thorough work-up, and with you, your family, evaluate all aspects of your pet’s health and help you make the most humane decision. You are not alone in this process.

Our Compassionate Pet Euthanasia Process in Murrieta

Every pet and family deserves to say goodbye to each other in a respectful, calm and dignified manner. At Hot Springs, we create a compassionate dog and cat euthanasia experience with the goal of making this experience as comforting as possible for your pet and you, and as soon as we start, we want your pet to be comfortable so that we can consider your wishes for carrying out the process.

Euthanasia Services We Offer:

  • In-Clinic Pet Euthanasia Murrieta: Visit our hospital to carry out end-of-life care for pets in a private, peaceful environment with support from our caring staff. You can opt for our dog euthanasia services as well as cat euthanasia services in Murrieta.

“Our goal is to provide gentle, dignified, anxiety-free and compassionate euthanasia services and family, either at home or in the clinic.”

What to Expect During Pet Euthanasia

Before Euthanasia

  • We will meet with you and your pet for an open and caring consultation with our veterinarian. We discuss the process and understand your concerns with questions you may have, guide you through the consent forms, and ensure you experience some control and information at all times.

During Euthanasia

  • Your pet will be given a gentle sedative to allow them to relax completely and drift off into a peaceful sleep, free of pain. We will then administer a final injection when you are ready so your beloved friend can pass peacefully – needless to say, you are always welcome to hold or comfort them.

After Euthanasia

  • We will give you as long as you need with your pet. We will help you with your aftercare. We offer pet cremation and memorial options in Murrieta to help you honour your regained friend in your favourite way.

Pet Euthanasia FAQs

When you bring your dog in for euthanasia, the veterinarian will explain the entire process. First, a calming sedative is administered to help your pet relax and remain pain-free. Once your dog is comfortable, the final injection, typically an overdose of anesthetic, is given, leading to a peaceful passing within moments. You’ll be offered a private room to stay with your dog throughout the process, and the team will provide you with aftercare options.
No, euthanized pets do not feel pain. The process is designed to be gentle and humane. A sedative is given to calm your pet, followed by an injection that quietly and painlessly stops the heart. Most pets simply fall asleep and pass away peacefully. Our focus is always on ensuring a stress-free, pain-free goodbye.
Before scheduling euthanasia for your pet, take a moment to gather any relevant medical records and list questions you have about the procedure. Consider your pet’s comfort: ask if they need to stop eating or drinking beforehand and whether sedation is offered. You might want to bring a special blanket, toy, or photo to make the space familiar. It’s also helpful to decide if you prefer in-clinic or in-home euthanasia. Finally, discuss after-care options (cremation, burial, memorial) ahead of time so you’re fully prepared.
Yes, many pet owners stay with their pet through the euthanasia process, as it provides comfort and closure. Most veterinary practices allow you to hold or pet your animal, speak softly, and decide whether other family members or pets are present. If you prefer a private moment afterward, ask about a “brief cuddle time” post-procedure. Being present often helps pet parents say goodbye in a meaningful way while knowing their companion is peaceful and cared for.
The actual euthanasia process is usually brief, often just a few minutes once the pet is comfortably sedated and the final injection is administered. However, allow 15-30 minutes total: this includes time for initial consultation, sedation (if needed), the pet’s peaceful transition, and a moment afterward to say goodbye or collect your pet. After that, you’ll typically discuss next steps such as after-care or memorial options. Having this timeline ahead of time can ease some of the uncertainty.

Why Choose Hot Springs Animal Hospital?

At Hot Springs Animal Hospital, we understand that saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most emotional experiences a family can face. That’s why we offer gentle, humane pet euthanasia services in a calm and private environment.

  • Trusted by Local Families
  • Compassionate, Professional Support
  • Private, Comfortable Setting
  • Transparent and Affordable Pricing
  • Aftercare Options Available