End of Life Care
Compassionate End-of-Life Care at HBSPCA
For countless individuals, pets are more than just animals; they're cherished family members, bringing endless joy, laughter, and cherished moments. Yet, with all the unconditional love and joy they bring into our lives, there comes a time when we face the profound responsibility of ensuring their peace and dignity in their final moments.
We do recommend that you contact your pet’s regular veterinarian for euthanasia services if possible. If cost is an obstacle when it’s time to say goodbye to your beloved pet due to old age or illness we are available to help. We offer caring, compassionate euthanasia services.
Navigating Difficult Choices with Empathy
The journey of being a pet owner is punctuated with beautiful memories, but it also leads to heart-wrenching decisions, especially when it comes to determining the best path for end-of-life care. At Hamilton Burlington SPCA, we deeply recognize the weight of this responsibility, and we're here to guide, support, and stand beside you during these challenging times.
Owner-Requested Euthanasia: Guided by Love and Compassion
It's the deep love and bond we share with our pets that makes witnessing their pain in their twilight moments immensely difficult. If you believe your cherished companion is suffering or in distress, the HBSPCA extends its arms to help. For those who need our euthanasia services, you can reach out to Orient at (905) 574-7722. Our priority is to provide a serene and supportive environment for both you and your pet.
For those who wish to be close to their pet during this tender moment, the HBSPCA welcomes you to say a final goodbye in our specially designed "Rainbow Room." Afterwards, your pet will be guided privately into our animal hospital for humane euthanasia.
Situated at 245 Dartnall Road in Hamilton, Ontario, the Animal Hospital of HBSPCA offers free parking for all visitors. When you arrive for this essential appointment, please connect with Natalie at Companion Hospital Entrance. Our commitment is to be there for you, ensuring your pet's final moments are filled with love, respect, and dignity.
Cats
The cost of sedation, euthanasia and communal cremation (no urn returns) of a cat is $190 - $240 (+HST)
Dogs
The cost of sedation, euthanasia and communal cremation (no urn returns) of a dog ranges from $190 - $440 (+HST)
Small Animals
Small animal (birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits) euthanasia is also available and prices range from $30 - $130 (+HST)
Humane Cremation
If your beloved pet has passed away, our compassionate team can support you through the remainder of the end of life process.
We understand how hard it is to say farewell to a true friend. We also know how important it is to celebrate the life of your pet in a way that is meaningful to you and your family. Whether your pet’s loss is unexpected or not, we will support you in making memorial arrangements that best suit your needs.
We can support you with communal and individual cremation, and after-cremation services.
Communal Cremation
With communal cremation, your pets remains will not be returned to you. Rest assured, their remains will be placed in Sandy Ridge Pet Cemetery.
The cost this service ranges from $56 - $146 (+HST)
Individual Cremation
With individual cremation, your pet remains will be returned to you. You have the option to select a precious memory for your pet remains.
The cost this service ranges from $317 - $398 (+HST)
Returned Memoirs
Through our cremation partner, Gateway, we are able to offer many options to treasure your precious pet forever.
Starting at $100 (+HST)
Frequently Asked Questions
Signs can vary depending on the pet and their condition, but common indicators include decreased appetite, difficulty breathing, lethargy, incontinence, and a decline in mobility. If you notice any significant changes in your pet's behavior or health, it's best to consult with a veterinarian.
This decision is deeply personal. Euthanasia may be considered if your pet is experiencing significant pain or suffering with no hope of improvement. Your pet's quality of life is of the utmost importance.
Euthanasia is the process of using medication to end an animal's life. Our goal is for your pet's passing to be as comfortable as possible. First, your pet will receive sedating medications, usually by injection, to relax them to a state of deep sleep. Once your animal is asleep, a second injection of medication will be given. This injection will cause deep, irreversible unconsciousness and within minutes, brain, heart, and lung function will stop.
After your pet has passed, we offer cremation, or communal cremation. You can discuss these options with our hospital team to determine what best aligns with your preferences and beliefs. If you have made alternate arrangements for your pet's aftercare, such as burial in a pet cemetery, please let our team know.
Losing a pet can be incredibly challenging, and it's important to give yourself time to grieve. You can seek support from our Volunteer Professional Bereavement Counsellor: Julie Brooks, 905-574-5070, close friends, family, or support groups for pet owners who are experiencing similar loss. Consider memorializing your pet in a way that feels meaningful to you, whether through a photo album, memorial service, or planting a tree in their honor.
It can be helpful to have conversations with your veterinarian and your family about your pet's end-of-life care options before they reach that stage. Consider creating an end-of-life care plan that outlines your wishes for your pet's comfort and aftercare, which can help alleviate some of the stress when the time comes.