A Compassionate Goodbye

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest decisions a family can make. Our team is here to support you with kindness, respect, and clear information, so you can focus on what matters most - being there for your pet.

This page explains what euthanasia is, what to expect during the appointment, and the aftercare options available to you

What is Euthanasia?

Euthanasia is a peaceful and humane way to relieve suffering when a pet’s quality of life has declined and treatment is no longer in their best interest. The word itself means “a gentle death,” and our priority is always to ensure your pet is comfortable, calm, and free from pain.

We offer euthanasia services in the setting that feels most comfortable for you and your pet:

At the clinic – in a calm, private environment
At home* – allowing your pet to pass peacefully in familiar surroundings

Please contact us to discuss availability and any additional considerations for home visits.

*Home visits may not be suitable in some cases and are subject to staff availability, we will try our best to accomodate your request.

What to Expect?

While every situation is unique, most euthanasia appointments follow a gentle and predictable process:

Time to Settle

We begin by giving you and your pet time to settle in a quiet space. You are welcome to stay with your pet for the entire procedure, or step out at any point—whatever feels right for you.

Sedation

In most cases, your pet is given a sedative first. This helps them relax and drift into a deep, peaceful sleep, reducing anxiety and ensuring they are comfortable.

Preparation

Once your pet is fully asleep, a small patch of fur is clipped on a leg so the veterinarian can access a vein safely and smoothly. They may also put an IV catheter in to ensure they have vein access.

Final Injection

The veterinarian then administers an overdose of anaesthetic. Your pet will pass away quietly and painlessly, usually within a few moments.

The veterinarian will gently confirm when your pet has passed and give you as much time as you need to say goodbye.

Keepsakes

As a small way to honour your pet’s memory, we can offer the following free of charge: ink paw prints and small vials of your pets fur. Please let our team know if you would like either or both.

Aftercare Options

After your pet has passed, you may choose from the following options:

Take your pet home to bury

Many people choose this option. It is good for people who live in their own home but sometimes those in rented homes do not wish to leave their animals behind if they move on. We have caskets available for cats and small dogs.

Leaving your animal with the vet for Communal burial

We can respectfully care for your pet with communal burial on private property.

Cremation services

This option allows you to keep your pet’s ashes at home or scatter them in a place of special significance. Taranaki Vet Centre clients commonly choose one of the following trusted cremation providers:

Truly Treasured

Please visit their website for information on the services they offer.Your pet will be collected, and the ashes returned directly to Taranaki Vet Centre, by Truly Treasured staff.

Located in Hamilton.

Cremate a Mate

Please visit their website for information on the services they offer. If you wish to use Cremate a Mate, arrangements must be made directly with them. Clients are required to transport their pet directly to Cremate a Mate.

Located in Whanganui.

Paws for Thought

Please visit their website for information on the services they offer. Your pet will be collected from Taranaki Vet Centre by Paws for Thought. Ashes can be returned via courier or collected directly from Paws for Thought.

Located in Egmont Village.

We are happy to talk through these options with you.

We're here for you

There is no right or wrong way to say goodbye. Our team understands how difficult this time can be and is here to support you with compassion, patience, and care.

If you have questions, would like to discuss your pet’s quality of life, or wish to book an appointment, please contact us. We are here to help you every step of the way.