Knowing when
No single number answers this, but a few lenses help:
- Five basics: eating, drinking, walking, sleeping comfortably, and being free of pain. If three or more are gone, it is time to talk.
- Good days and bad days: mark each day on a calendar. When bad days outnumber good ones, that is a clear signal.
- What they still enjoy: sunshine, being stroked, seeing you. When those are gone, ask whether what remains is for them or for us.
- Signs of pain: panting, hiding, a hunched back, snapping when touched, reluctance to move. Animals do not say it out loud.
We can do a quality-of-life assessment with you, looking at it objectively together, and we will never rush you.
What euthanasia involves
- It can be done in a consultation room; we prepare a quiet room and a blanket.
- A sedative injection first; your pet relaxes and falls asleep over a few minutes. You can hold them and talk to them.
- Then an overdose of anaesthetic; the heart and breathing stop within seconds, without pain or struggle.
- The vet confirms the heart has stopped. Small reflex movements or a breath-like sound can happen afterwards and are normal.
- Stay as long as you need. We will not hurry you.
You can be there throughout, only for the sedation, or not at all. There is no wrong choice.
Afterwards
- Cremation: Hong Kong has pet cremation services offering individual cremation (ashes returned) or communal cremation (not returned). We can provide information and help you arrange it, and your pet can rest at the hospital until collection.
- Taking them home: if you prefer to make your own arrangements, we will wrap them carefully.
- Keepsakes: a paw print or a lock of fur; we can help.
Cost
The euthanasia fee covers sedation, medication and the vet's time; cremation is charged separately by the cremation company, and we explain everything beforehand.
For you
Grief is normal and takes as long as it takes. Other pets in the home may search or go off food for a few days. Talk to us if you need to, or reach out to a pet-loss support service.