Common Questions
How do I know if it is the right time for euthanasia?
Deciding when to say goodbye is one of the hardest decisions a pet owner can face. Changes in comfort, mobility, appetite, and enjoyment of daily life can all be signs that your pet’s quality of life is declining. Our team can help you assess your pet’s comfort and answer any questions you may have, so you can make the decision that feels right for your family.
There are also several assessment tools available online, such as the HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale found at the end of this Veterinary Partner webpage: Assessing Quality of Life & Euthanasia in Companion Animals.
What is the cost of end-of-life services?
The Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association (NSVMA) prohibits the advertising of prices of veterinary services. However, we would be glad to provide you with a tailored estimate for your pet's care at any time. Please fill out the End-of-Life Care Request form on the Contact Us page (or click here) to begin the process to receive a cost estimate.
Can I pay in advance for my visit?
Many clients find it beneficial to pay for the appointment ahead of time. We recommend doing so to remove one more task from an already overwhelming day. At this time, payments can be made by e-transfer to heartsathome@gmail.com or via cash.
Please note: Annapolis Animal Hospital clients are required to prepay at AAH in person, online, or by phone. AAH accepts credit/debit cards, e-transfer, and cash.
What is your availability for appointments?
Our veterinarian currently shares her working hours between Hearts at Home and working in a veterinary clinic and therefore is not available every day. Every effort will be made to schedule appointments in a manner best suited to you, your pet, and your family. At this time, we offer weekday appointments only.
Please note: If you would like to schedule a weekend appointment, please reach out to another lovely in-home veterinarian, Dr. Penny Graben. She offers occasional weekday evening appointments as well. You can find her website for Coming Home here: https://cominghomevet.ca/.
What do I do if my pet has an emergency?
Hearts at Home is a specialized veterinary service providing scheduled in-home end-of-life care and is not available for urgent or emergency care. If your pet is in severe condition or requires immediate or next-day attention, please contact your regular veterinarian or seek emergency services such as Coastal Care or Maritime Vet.
Do you offer a two-step protocol?
Yes, at Hearts at Home, we always strive for the most comfortable and peaceful passing for your pet. This involves a two-step approach. The first: sedation to relieve stress, anxiety, and discomfort. The second: the euthanasia itself. Some patients may even require a three-step protocol, where at first a milder sedative is given before a second, deeper sedative.
How can I help my stressed or anxious pet?
Please let us know if you feel your pet may benefit from pre-visit anti-anxiety/calming or sedative medications. Our veterinarian is happy to call in a prescription to your regular veterinary clinic or personal pharmacy for ease of pick up. Our goal is to maximize peace and comfort for all.
We understand that this is an incredibly difficult time. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about our process and how we support you and your pet.