Pet Euthanasia
You Are Not Alone
We believe that a peaceful, dignified passing is one of the most meaningful gifts we can offer to a pet who has given so much. Our team approaches every euthanasia appointment with the full attention, tenderness, and reverence that your pet and your family deserve.
What Is Pet Euthanasia?
The decision to pursue euthanasia is never easy, and it is deeply personal. For many families, it is ultimately an act of love—a choice made to spare a beloved companion from further suffering. Our team is here to support you in making that decision thoughtfully and at a pace that feels right for you and your family.
Assessing Quality of Life
We look at factors such as whether your pet is able to eat and drink comfortably, whether they are experiencing unmanageable pain or difficulty breathing, whether they still have moments of enjoyment or engagement with the people they love, and whether the difficult days are beginning to outnumber the good ones. These conversations are never easy, but we approach them with care and openness, giving you the information you need to feel as confident as possible in whatever decision you make.
If you are uncertain about your pet’s quality of life and would like to talk it through with our team, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You don’t need to wait for a crisis to have this conversation—we are here for you whenever you need us.
What to Expect During a Euthanasia Appointment
The procedure itself is gentle and typically very peaceful. Your pet will first receive a sedative to help them relax completely, followed by the euthanasia solution, which causes the heart to stop quietly and without distress. Most pets pass within moments, and many owners find the process more peaceful than they anticipated.
You are welcome to stay with your pet throughout the procedure, and we encourage it if you feel able—many families find comfort in being present. If you prefer not to be in the room, that is completely understandable, and we will care for your pet with the same gentleness regardless.
We also welcome other family members who wish to be present, including children, at your discretion. There is no right or wrong way to say goodbye.
At-Home Euthanasia
For some families, having a veterinarian come to their home to perform the procedure is a meaningful choice. A familiar environment can be less stressful for your pet, and being at home allows your family to say goodbye in the space where so many of your memories together were made.
Porter Square Veterinarian is pleased to connect families with trusted in-home euthanasia partners who serve the Somerville area with the same compassion and professionalism we strive to bring to every interaction.
Dr. Becky Schoenberg—Autumn Care and Crossings
Phone: 781-874-9477
Website: autumnvet.com
Dr. Betsy Johnson—Home Euthanasia for Pets
Phone: 781-259-0290
Website: homeeuthanasiaforpets.boston
Please reach out to these providers directly to discuss availability, pricing, and what to expect from an in-home visit.
Cremation Services
After your pet passes, you may wish to consider cremation as a way to honor their memory. Our team can help connect you with cremation service options so that you don’t have to navigate that process alone during an already difficult time. Please ask our team for more information when the time is right for your family.
Grief Is Real, and It Is Natural
The grief that follows the loss of a pet is real, profound, and worthy of the same acknowledgment as any other loss. Your pet was a member of your family, and the space they leave behind is significant. Please be gentle with yourself and with the other members of your household—human and animal alike—as you navigate the days and weeks ahead.
If you find that you need additional support in your grief, there are resources available specifically for pet loss, including counseling services, support groups, and online communities of people who understand what you are going through. Our team is happy to point you toward these resources if it would be helpful.