Euthanasia & Quality Of Life Services
What to Expect
Dr. Leone will come to your home to help your pet pass peacefully. This can take place indoors, outside, or wherever your pet feels most comfortable. We bring a variety of treats for your pet to enjoy if they're feeling up to eating.
The euthanasia fee includes all medications needed for a comfortable, dignified passing. Your pet will first receive a sedative injection, followed by additional sedation and then the final injection. Afterward, you may notice final breaths, movement, or twitching. This is a normal release of energy and does not mean your pet is in pain.
Once Dr. Leone has confirmed your pet's passing, we can make keepsakes for you at no extra cost. These include clippings from favorite areas of fur, an ink nose and paw print on card stock, and a foam paw print in a display box with your pet's name imprinted.
After Care
We partner with Abbey Glen Pet Memorial Services, a local, licensed pet crematory that offers a range of cremation options. As pet owners ourselves, we promise your family member will be handled with gentleness and dignity.
https://www.abbeyglen.com/
Home Burial
You may also take you pet to a crematory or pet cemetery. Burial must follow local and state laws and, if you rent, requires your landlord's approval.
Please be aware that euthanasia medications remain in the body for years and can seep into the surrounding soil. They are toxic to wildlife, and birds or other animals that feed on remains can die.
For this reason, pets must be buried deep enough to keep scavengers away. If another animal dies from consuming these medications, the veterinarian can face fines of up to $500,000 depending on the species affected (for example, an endangered species).
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture requires that a burial site be:
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Outside the 100-year flood plain
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At least 100 feet from water, wells, sinkholes, and property lines (200 feet recommended)
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Covered with at least two feet of soil within 48 hours
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At least two feet above bedrock, the seasonal high water table, and highly permeable soils
Resources to help you know when it is time to say Goodbye
The Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice and In-Home Euthanasia Company has a Quality-of-Life Scale and a Quality-of-Life Daily Assessment.
These are tools to help you and your family evaluate your pet’s quality of life.
You can print these PDF's, keep them in plain sight and have multiple people in the family use them daily or weekly.
