Lafayette Veterinary Care Center
Navigating End-of-Life Decisions with Love and Compassion
In this heartfelt video, Dr. Dusty gently guides pet parents through one of the most difficult decisions we may ever have to make — saying goodbye to a beloved companion.
He shares thoughtful ways to assess your pet’s quality of life, including:
The “Top 10 List”
Good Days vs. Bad Days
Dr. Dusty reminds us that you don’t have to face this alone. Veterinarians are here not just for medical advice, but to offer kindness, support, and an outside perspective during this emotional time. Sometimes, a quality-of-life consultation can bring clarity and comfort when your heart feels unsure.
Navigating the Day of Your Pet's Euthanasia
In this thoughtful video, Dr. Dusty gently explains what the day of euthanasia may look like, helping to ease some of the fear and uncertainty during an emotional time.
You'll learn what to expect — from arriving at the clinic and placing the IV catheter, to saying goodbye in whatever way feels most comfortable for you and your pet. Dr. Dusty walks through the process step by step, emphasizing comfort, dignity, and compassion.
You’ll also hear about aftercare options, including home burial and cremation choices, so you can plan what feels right for you.
This video is here to help you feel more prepared and less alone. If you have questions or just need to talk things through, our veterinary team is always here to support you.
Overview
Euthanasia is commonly referred to as “putting down” or “putting to sleep”. This is a very hard decision many pet owners must make at the last stage of their pet’s life.
Why euthanasia?
Just as we all age, so do our beloved pets. As much as we would love for all of our pets to be in our lives forever, there comes a time to say goodbye. Euthanasia offers a peaceful, controlled option for the end of our pet's life. Based on your pet's quality of life, euthanasia may be something to consider.
When is the time right?
Knowing when the time is right can be a difficult choice. There are many factors that go into deciding to euthanize an animal, and it is a personal issue that differs from pet owner to pet owner. Your top concern should be about your pet’s quality of life, difficulties that come with old age, and the pain they may be suffering.
What should I expect?
Our euthanasia process is designed to be as peaceful as possible. Once you and the doctor have determined that this is the best choice, your pet will have a drug administered that results in deep sedation. During the time it takes to reach this state, you and your family may remain with your pet. It is a quiet few minutes of saying goodbye. You may also choose to leave at this point, having bid your pet farewell, taking comfort in knowing it was calm and pain free.
How should I get more information or ask for help?
Our veterinarians are available to discuss your options. They are very familiar with the experience, and are able to talk about the process and the feelings that come with it. Please make an appointment or contact us for information on options, timelines, and references for support through the grieving process.
Pet Loss Support
The loss of a beloved animal companion can be an incredibly profound and emotional experience. Whether their passing was sudden or followed a difficult decision, the grief that follows is real, valid, and deeply felt.
Support is available. If you are in need of someone to speak with, there are compassionate resources dedicated to helping individuals navigate the unique grief that comes with losing a pet.
A list of pet loss support lines can be found below. Please know you are not alone.
Monthly Pet Loss Support Group
Facilitator: Kristen Kahenek, MSW, CT
This group is available to anyone who is struggling with the loss of a beloved pet.
Join us as we come together to support each other while working through the grieving process.
There is no cost to participate.
When: 3rd Sunday of Every Month at 3 PM
Where: Pet Passages - 110 Eunice Drive, Lafayette LA
RSVP: [email protected]
Virtual Pet Loss Grief Support Group
with Clarté Counseling, LLC
At Clarté Counseling, we understand the pain and grief associated with losing a pet.
Many many not understand why it's taking so long to "get over" the loss, but we do. As a result, we created a virtual support group for individuals in the state of Louisiana struggling with pet loss.
We are here to support you.
This is an open group, meaning individuals can come and go as they feel appropriate for them. The group is held online via Zoom every Wednesday of the month at 6:00 pm. The group is open for ages 18 & older and the cost is $20 per group.
For additional questions or to sign up, visit our website below or contact us at:
