Dr. Karie, along with an assistant, will travel to your home (serving the southwest Chicago suburbs), so you and your pet can remain in a peaceful, comfortable and private environment. All of your love and focus can be directed towards your furry family member during this emotional time. The entire appointment is typically 45-60 minutes, which gives Dr. Karie the opportunity to work at a relaxed pace without rushing through any part of the process. 

Dr. Karie will begin the appointment by providing an overview of the euthanasia procedure. She takes as much time as you want to discuss any of your questions or concerns. The entire process is individually tailored towards your preferences, interest level and comfort. We can work in whichever area of your home where you and your pet are most comfortable, whether it be the living room floor, a family room couch or anywhere in between. We can also work outdoors in good weather conditions (above 50 degrees and not raining). 

Once you are ready for the procedure to begin, your pet will receive an injection under the skin containing a pain-reliever mixed with a heavy sedative to help them get calm and comfortable. As the sedative takes effect, usually within 5-15 minutes, you’ll notice your pet’s pain slip away as they continue to relax.  Most pets typically fall asleep during this time. You and your family can be right by their side for the entire appointment. You can even hold them in your arms or your lap the whole time if you would like. 

Once your pet is asleep or completely relaxed, we place a pad underneath them to protect your floor/furniture, as many pets release their bowels after they pass. Dr. Karie will then place an IV catheter in one of the front legs that will be used for the final two injections. You’ll have as much time as desired to share one last memory together. After receiving your permission to proceed, Dr. Karie administers an injection of anesthesia, which takes effect within 15 seconds. Your pet will go under anesthesia just like they would right before a surgery, so they will not feel anything after that. Dr. Karie will then ask again if it is okay to proceed with their angel juice. This last injection is an overdose of anesthesia that will first effect their brain before stopping their heart and giving them their angel wings.

The entire procedure is painless and very peaceful for them. They will typically fall asleep with the first injection of sedation administered under the skin, then they will go under anesthesia administered through the IV catheter before they peacefully slip away with the last injection of angel juice. 

After your pet has passed, you can continue to spend as much time with them as needed. As a memorial keepsake, we offer a clay paw print for you to keep after your final goodbye, along with a personalized glass jar containing a lock of your pet’s hair – free of charge. If cremation is elected, we transport your pet out of the home in a custom carrier decorated with flowers. Your pet will be wrapped in an angel wing blanket and gently placed on a white linen bed within our custom carrier. You can include their favorite toy or blanket and we also provide you with fresh rose petals upon request that you can scatter around them as a final goodbye.