End of Life Care

At Vetter, we know how much your pet means to you. After all, we have pets, too. Our dogs and cats are part of the family and our best companions, there for us in times of joy and struggle. We give them our best and they deserve nothing less. Vetter wants to help keep your dog or cat happy and comfortable at all phases of his/her life—the same thing that you want for them.

There comes a time, though, when due to old age or illness, your pet begins to show signs that he/she is declining. You may notice that the decline happens slowly or quickly; it may be obvious or just small signs, but as veterinarians often say, you know your pet best. However it happens, there comes a point when it is no longer possible to keep your pet comfortable and the quality of his/her life is diminishing. None of us wants our pets to suffer. When this suffering is noticeable and cannot be treated as a surmountable illness, you or your veterinarian may conclude that gently putting your pet to sleep at home would be the most compassionate option. If you are not sure whether it is time to consider euthanasia, Vetter can help to discuss your pet’s condition and the best options for him/her and for you.

If it is the right time for euthanasia, Vetter makes it possible to say good-bye to your pet at home. This is one of the most stressful times in your unique relationship with your pet, and Vetter is proud to take the guesswork out of the process and be there for you the entire way. Since transporting your pet to the vet when he/she is unhealthy can be stressful for you and for your pet, we provide in home euthanasia services. To avoid causing discomfort or anxiety, or adding to your stress during an incredibly difficult time, Vetter will come to your home and help to end your pet’s suffering there. Your pet can stay in his/her own environment, without the trauma of traveling or being in a strange place. And you will be able to say good-bye in peace and at your own pace.

Our in-home euthanasia service means that your pet can pass away peacefully in a familiar setting, surrounded by his/her loving family. 

We want to help give your pet an easy and painless end to his/her suffering, and we will work closely with you before and during the appointment to ensure it. At-home euthanasia is performed by Vetter’s veterinarians, who have years of experience in this procedure.

Before the appointment, we will discuss your pet’s needs, what to expect from the dog or cat euthanasia at home service, and how the procedure works. We are happy to answer all of your questions.

The procedure itself is safe and painless: the veterinarian will become acquainted with your cat or dog to take away any anxiety and provide a sense of calm. Then, a mild sedative will make your pet feel tired and generally in a very relaxed state with no pain. A final medication will provide a peaceful euthanasia. The entire process can be as short or as long as you’d like; you’re in control and we work towards a timing sequence that’s best for you. We will also work with you to provide your pet’s cremation after the euthanasia.

All you need to do to prepare for the appointment is to decide where in your home you would like the procedure to take place, and whether you want any other family members or pets in the room. You might also keep some of your pet’s favorite treats nearby to give him/her during the sedation. We will discuss these details and more with you during your consultation—we are here to help however we can.

If you or your vet thinks it might be the right time to consider pet euthanasia at home, please contact us so we can get in touch and discuss how best to meet your pet’s needs, what you can expect from the euthanasia at home service, whether you prefer private or communal cremation, and how to set an appointment. (Note: please contact us directly via phone (844-683-8837) or email (general@vetterpetcare.com) to set an appointment or consultation for this service. We want to provide the highest level of personalized care at this critical time.)

Vetter is here for you and your pet.

In Home Euthanasia - $320

The in-home pet euthanasia starts with the veterinarian and nurse team assessing your pet and answering any additional questions that you may have thought of after scheduling the appointment. They will tell you about the procedure itself and the entire appointment, and explain how the medications work together to ensure a comfortable and compassionate euthanasia. The vet is available for any questions you may have; please ask. During the appointment, the vet and assistant will encourage family members to take as long as they need when saying goodbye to their beloved pet. You will never be rushed, and we will proceed through the medical process at a pace that’s best for you and your pet. Before leaving, we will provide you with a paw print keepsake of your pet so you can continue to recall all of the wonderful times together.

Our expert veterinarians are adept at handling all types of feline behavior and know how to gently and compassionately send them to a better place.

Large or small breed, our veterinarians are able to help ailing and aging dogs in the comfort of their home. We're here to make this easier for you both. 

Cremation

Vetter will provide cremation of your pet after the euthanasia. Pet cremation can either be individual or communal. In individual cremation, your pet is cremated individually and the ashes are returned to you in an urn. In communal cremation, your pet is cremated with others and their ashes are scattered in a pet cemetery northeast of Philadelphia. We are happy to discuss both cremation options with you to aid in deciding what would work best for your needs.

• Private - $270 cremation + $20 urn mailing
• Communal - $185 (no ash return)

• Private - $295 cremation + $20 urn mailing
• Communal - $200 (no ash return)
• Note: dogs > 80 lbs incur $50 add'l cremation charge

Service Area

Vetter offers at-home euthanasia throughout Philadelphia, in an area larger than we currently serve for regular veterinary visits. We continue to expand our coverage and are always willing to extend our services to those in need.