Skip to main content
Make an appointment
Tasmanian Veterinary Hospitals Sorell

For every person who loves and shares their life with a dog, the dreaded day when you question whether to intervene in how and when your dog’s life will end. The thought of saying goodbye to your dog for the last time is heartbreaking.

Signs that your dog may be dying are:

  • Prolonged lethargy and disinterest
  • Stopping eating and drinking
  • Loss of co ordination
  • Incontinence
  • Laboured breathing
  • Seeking comfort

However, the signs that a dog is dying are not always consistent. Not all dogs will exhibit all these signs, and some dogs will exhibit even more. While preparing for saying goodbye to your dog, you are going to have to decide if your dog needs your help crossing over.

There are some choices surrounding the compassionate euthanasia of your pet which you may decide on before the day so there will be less burden.

  • Euthanasia can be administered at the hospital or at your home by arrangement.
  • You can be present with your pet or choose to hold the living memory whilst our caring staff support them on their journey.
  • You are welcome keep your pet’s collar with you after they have passed; wrap them in a special blanket; trim a piece of their fur to keep or give them a small keepsake to keep by their body – everyone’s farewell is different and we will be there to accompany you and assist where we can.
  • You may like to bury them at home in the garden, at the family holiday home, or we can arrange cremation through a pet burial company.

Please feel free to talk through these options with our vets or nurses beforehand.

Call us for a chat regarding your pets needs.

Bellerive 03 6244 7667 Sorell 03 6265 2935 Kingston 03 6229 9345