WELCOME

What exactly IS a house call??

A house call is where a Veterinarian comes to your home to care for your dog(s) and/or cat(s). You get to see every aspect of your pet's physical exam and treatment because the pet isn't taken to the back, or to another room for the exam. I explain exam findings as I go and will show the pet owner anything abnormal that I find. I do not have a clinic location that you can visit, I am only able to come to your home. 

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What Does Pet Hospice Mean?

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Pet hospice or "palliative care" is a term for care of pets that have been diagnosed with a terminal condition and are nearing end of life. The goal of palliative or hospice care is to control pain and improve quality of life so that owners can spend more quality time with their pet. I also offer pet hospice appointments for elderly dogs who haven't been diagnosed with a specific terminal illness, but their quality of life could be improved and extended through a pain management plan. Part of a quality of life consultation and hospice visit is having a conversation about how to know when the time is right to put your pet down, and what expectations you may have for longevity of your pet.

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What Happens During an In Home Euthanasia?

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I feel very strongly that in home euthanasia is one of the most important services I offer. At an in home euthanasia appointment I will come into the home (or yard) and introduce myself to your pet. I typically perform a very limited exam unless a more thorough exam is requested. This is to keep your pet calm and not disturb them any more than necessary. When you are ready a combination of medications will be given to your pet by injection under the skin near the scruff of the neck or via mouth for animals that are sensitive to needles. This medication combo includes heavy pain control, anti-anxiety medication, and a sedative which are mixed together into one single shot. This initial shot will help your pet fall into a very deep, comfortable sleep in about 5-10 minutes. Once they have fallen asleep their discomfort will be gone and they will no longer feel pain. The final injection that will make them pass away is then typically given in a vein in their back leg. You will have control over when I give the final injection (within reason) and you may hold your pet during the entire process. After your pet has passed you may allow other pets in the home to come out and see them and I will offer you some alone time with your pet. If you have requested cremation I will come back into the home when you are ready and bundle your pet into a sheet on a hand-carry gurney. For large dogs I will request your assistance carrying the gurney to the van. I will then transport your pet to the crematorium for cremation. 

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House call visits are not for everyone and if your pet is aggressive and can't be muzzled, or can't be caught on a leash or in an small room, I won't be able to examine or care for your pet safely. For most pets however, staying at home is less stressful than a visit to a brick and mortar Veterinary clinic.