Question 1

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

I am happy to travel anywhere within San Antonio and the surrounding areas and towns! I have done euthanasias from Castroville to San Marcos, and Spring Branch down towards Highland Oaks. I do have small trip fees based on distance from my home office due to the time and fuel it takes to travel there and back (twice if delivering your pet and keepsakes back to you!)

0-15 miles: No trip fee
15-25 miles: $30
26-35 miles: $50
36-45 miles: $75
46-60 miles: $125

Please see the map below:

Question 2

I live on a military post. Can I still get services from you?

Accepted Answer

Yep! Since I am a military retiree, I still have full access to military bases. I am honored to be able help Service Members living on post. 
I also offer a $50 discount on any service for Active Duty and Retired military families.

Question 3

What forms of payment do you take?

Accepted Answer

Cash, cards, Zelle, Venmo, and PayPal. I can take Care Credit only if your card has a major credit company logo on it, such as Visa or Mastercard.

At this time, I do not take check. I apologize for the inconvenience.

If paying cash, please have exact amount, as I do not carry change.

Question 4

What are your prices? Are they all-inclusive?

Accepted Answer

Please navigate to my "Services and Pricing" page for current cost. Yes, the price shown for that package includes everything--my time and travel up to 15 miles from my home office in 78218, sedation, euthanasia procedure, cremation (if applicable), and memorial keepsake items. I am happy to serve families beyond 15 miles, however there are small additional travel fees depending on distance from me.

I also provide options for just euthanasia or just picking up your pet for transport to the crematorium:

-Euthansia only- Someone may pick this option because they want to bury their pet at home.

-Aftercare only- Someone may pick this option because their pet has already passed, and they want someone else to pick up their pet and transport them to the crematorium.

These options are also listed on the Services and Pricing page, and still include memorial keepsake items.

Question 5

How do I make an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Just reach out via one of my many contact methods! We will discuss when you want to schedule and availability. I'll then send a brief questionnaire to you, and you'll be all set til the appointment.

Question 6

How much time do I have for an appointment?

Accepted Answer

I generally schedule appointments for 90 minutes. However, most people do not use that full time; average is about 45 minutes to 1 hour from start to finish.

I do not like to rush these appointments because I know how important it is for people to spend time with their pets and how hard it can be to say goodbye. If you feel you will need more than 90 minutes, please let me know ahead of time so that we can discuss alternative arrangements.

Question 7

This is my first time euthanazing a pet ever, or having these services at home. What do I do? How do I prepare?

Accepted Answer

Don't stress! There is no right or wrong way to prepare yourself or your pet for euthanasia. Make yourselves as comfortable and relaxed as possible. You pet can be in a bedroom or other favorite spot, you can play soft, soothing music or any other favorite tunes, dim the lights a bit or let in natural light, light a candle, and give some yummy treats, to name a few ideas. No dog should go to heaven without having tasted chocolate!
And yes, you can also hold your pet or have them in your lap as well. I'll guide you if I need access to a specific area to deliver medication to your pet. Whatever makes you comfortable; I work around you and your family. I just need a little bit of light for injections.

The only thing I must ask for is that you are sober to sign for legal euthanasia consent. If you are visibly intoxicated or under the influence of any substances, legal or otherwise, we will need to reschedule.

Question 8

Do I have to be present for the entire procedure?

Accepted Answer

Not for everything! If your pet is still able to move around on their own, or is aggressive, I require someone to hold them and control the head, or place one of my muzzles on your pet (if needed.) Once your pet is sedated, you are welcome to step out at any point for placing an intravenous catheter and the administering the euthanasia solution.

Question 9

Can I take pictures and video with my pet during the appointment? Or Facetime with family?

Accepted Answer

Of course! I respectfully request to not be photographed or filmed directly. Catching a bit of me in a picture or video is acceptable.

Just please keep in mind the 90 minute time slot out of respect for appointments that may be after yours. If you need more time, please let me know when booking so that I can make alternative arrangements.

Question 10

What crematorium do you use?

Accepted Answer

At this time, I use Heavenly Paws, located in New Braunfels.

Question 11

Do you coordinate with the crematorium and transport my pet for cremation?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If you are choosing to cremate your pet, I will take your pet on a ride with me at the end of the appointment after you've said your goodbyes, and the crematorium picks up from me. At the beginning of the appointment, we go over cremation options, and urn choice if choosing the private cremation package.

Question 12

Will you review my pet's medical records and give an opinion about their diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

I am happy to discuss quality of life concerns, or how to know it's "time" for your pet prior to making the appointment for euthanasia.

However I do not offer medical consultations, record reviews, or provide second opinions about your pet's medical history and diagnoses; this is beyond the scope of my in-home euthanasia services.

If you have concerns or doubts about your pet's diagnosis, I recommend consulting with your primary veterinarian or seeking a second opinion from another veterinarian with expanded diagnostic capabilities prior to scheduling an appointment for euthanasia.

Question 13

Do you sedate my pet before the euthanasia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, every pet will be deeply sedated with a special cocktail for every euthanasia. I perform my sedation in two injections. The reason I separate one of the sedation agents out is because it can sting slightly, and I want your pet to be very relaxed before that medication to minimize reactions to it.

Question 14

My pet is smelly and has made a mess on themselves before your arrival. I'm so sorry! What do I do?

Accepted Answer

It's okay! Pets who can no longer control their bodily functions or get outside to use the restroom often have to go where they are laying. Just try to towel them off, scoop solid waste or sop up liquid waste, and don't worry about it! I will have gloves and absorbent pads with me as well. Absolutely no need to apologize.

Pets may have tumors or wounds that are necrotic, oozing, and/or smelly- this is okay too! I'm quite used to the range of odors associated with animals. Again, please do not apologize :)

Question 15

Will you help me with or assist in body care for my pet during our appointment, such as bathing, grooming, decoration, religious ceremonies, rituals, and cultural traditions, etc.?

Accepted Answer

Out of reverence for the multitude of religions and personal beliefs that people have, I must respectfully decline. 
If you require assistance for activities such as bathing or grooming you pet after they pass, please arrange for a family member or friend to be present. 
If you need additional time beyond 90 minutes for any of these activities for your pet, please let me know when booking your appointment.

Question 16

Will I get to spend time with my pet alone before you take them?

Accepted Answer

Of course! I allow for private time with your pet at two points in the appointment; one after they have been given both injections for deep sedation, and the second after your pet has passed.

Question 17

Will you do euthanasia for aggressive animals?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We will need to discuss your particular situation, but we may need to schedule a pre-service consultation to get your pet some medications to help reduce stress and aggression as much as possible to keep everyone safe. Please see details on my "Services and Pricing" page.

Frequently asked questions