Pet Euthanasia In Fort Lauderdale, FL

At home pet euthanasia allows your pet to pass away peacefully in the comfort of your home surrounded by love. A compassionate veterinarian will provide end-of-life care for your pet starting with an initial end-of-life exam followed by sedation to ensure your pet is comfortable. Your vet will always move at your pace so you have the time you need to say your goodbyes. Once you are ready, your vet will administer medication to help them gently and painlessly say goodbye surrounded by comfort and love.

Dr. Brittany Dash offers valuable insight into recognizing signs of suffering in your pet:

"It can sometimes be hard to determine if and how much your pet is suffering, especially since they may not outwardly show it. I typically recommend starting by assessing if your pet still likes to do the things they used to. For example, eating their favorite treats, playing fetch, greeting you at the door, walking outside, laying in the sun, etc. If you notice that they have stopped doing some or all of the things they used to enjoy, then a concern for a poor quality of life arises.

I like to remind pet parents that mental suffering is just as important as physical suffering. Some pets may seem "normal" to the stranger passing by, but you, as the guardian, know your pet best. As for physical discomfort, there are certain diseases that do bring associated pain, including kidney failure, liver failure, heart failure, arthritis and lameness, and certain neurological conditions, to name a few. Cancers and significant loss of body weight can also cause your pet to feel generally dumpy and lethargic.

If you are at all concerned, it is a good idea to bring up the topic to your primary veterinarian or schedule an in-home consultation." - Dr. Brittany Dash

The key difference is the setting. In home euthanasia allows your pet to pass peacefully in the comfort of their familiar surroundings, reducing stress and anxiety. This option especially benefits pets who may feel scared or uncomfortable traveling to a clinic. It also offers your family a private, intimate experience during this emotional time. While some urgent situations don’t allow for time to schedule in-home euthanasia, many pet owners in Fort Lauderdale choose in-home services for the peaceful atmosphere and compassionate care their pets receive right where they feel safest. You can find flexible availability for our local vets here, or look for same-day euthanasia appointments.

No, pet euthanasia at home is designed to be completely painless. After an initial end-of-life assessment, your veterinarian will first administer a sedative to ensure your pet is relaxed and comfortable. The euthanasia medication then gently stops the heart without causing pain. The process is peaceful and allows your pet to pass without distress.

We have a network of compassionate veterinarians serving many cities across the US who provide pet euthanasia at home for your beloved dog, cat, or other pets. You can find a local vet near you in the next 7 days or call 833-263-2738 to get help from our customer care team.

While we do not offer 24 hour pet euthanasia services, we do provide after-hours and emergency care in greater Fort Lauderdale. You can request same-day and urgent appointments to ensure your pet receives the compassionate care they need during critical moments.

Yes, there is typically an additional fee for after-hours or emergency appointments. You can view the estimate when you request a same-day or urgent appointment.

The cost of at home pet euthanasia can vary in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding areas. Once you have picked your provider, the cost will usuallydepend on your pet’s size and any additional services you may choose, such as cremation, keepsakes, or other services. Our services start with a base fee of $350 for in home euthanasia. If your vet is traveling further than their local area, there is a travel fee applied based on how far you are from them. At CodaPet, we believe in giving you complete transparency and control over what you are choosing for your pet’s end-of-life care. This is why you can view a detailed price estimate before you complete reserving a time with your local vet. You can view flexible availability and detailed pricing or request a same-day appointment if this is more urgent. If you have any further questions, you can view our FAQs or reach us (833) 263 - 2738.

Most providers in Fort Lauderdale charge a flat fee for euthanasia, although some providers do charge based on the size of your pet, so small dogs and cats can be the same price; however, medium or large size dogs (such as Bulldogs, Australian Shepherds, Labradors, or German Shepherds) will likely carry a higher price. At CodaPet, most vets charge a flat fee for both dogs and cats; however, if there is a large pet fee, it will be applied automatically for you to review in the price estimate when you reserve an appointment. You can view the detailed pricing and availability here or call us at (833) 263 - 2738.

Brittany Dash shares the following details about the in-home euthanasia process:

"My goal for in-home euthanasia is to bring peace to both the pet and their family. I start by discussing your pet's history, performing an abbreviated physical assessment, and answering any questions. This can be brief or extensive depending on the needs of the family. Then I prepare the first injection that contains a combination of an opiate for pain control and a heavy sedative to ensure that they are not aware of the rest of the process. This injection is given in the muscle and takes about 5-10 minutes to take effect. If your pet still seems awake or in pain, I will give a second dose to ensure that they are comfortable.

Once they are appropriately sedated, I place an IV catheter in one of the legs to gain access to a vein. Finally, I give the last injection via the IV, and your pet will pass away quickly, usually about 30-60 seconds. For cats, I do not place an IV because their veins are typically very small and difficult to work with. Therefore, to avoid unnecessary discomfort, I place the final injection directly into the abdomen. This method can take a few minutes longer for your pet to pass but is also painless since they will have heavy pain and sedative medications on board.

I will confirm that there is no heartbeat, then give the family a few minutes alone to say goodbye. Once they are ready, I will place the pet in a basket (for cats and small dogs) or a sling (for large dogs) with blankets and move them into my car. For larger pets, I will request the help of a family member for loading. All pets are handled respectfully during the transportation and cremation process." - Dr. Brittany Dash

Yes, you can always choose the veterinarian you prefer, at the times they have available to reserve. You can see their real-time availability or request a same-day urgent appointment if no time suits your needs.

If you have any questions or specific needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out at (833) 263 - 2738.

If you're searching for at-home pet euthanasia services in Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding areas, you're in compassionate hands with our local veterinarian. Below, you can learn more about their professional journey and what inspired them to offer peaceful in-home euthanasia services.

• Dr. Diana Gersten brings compassion, kindness, and expertise to every pet she cares for. Raised in the suburbs of New York City, she always knew her life’s purpose was to work with animals. After earning her undergraduate degree in Animal Science from Cornell University in 2009, she achieved her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Florida in 2014. Dr. Gersten is dedicated to ensuring that pets and their families experience a peaceful and loving transition during their final moments. With advanced certifications in veterinary acupuncture, Chinese medicine, dentistry, and canine rehabilitation, she brings a holistic approach to end-of-life care, offering a comforting and dignified farewell to cherished pets.
  
  To hear from other pet parents about their experiences with Gersten, visit her profile and Google reviews.
  
• Dr. Brittany Dash has always been inspired by the unconditional love that pets bring into our lives. Growing up in South Florida surrounded by animals, she knew her calling was to care for them. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from Florida International University in 2017 and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from North Carolina State University in 2022. With a special focus on geriatric care, Dr. Dash is devoted to providing a peaceful, loving farewell for pets and their families. As an in-home euthanasia veterinarian, she creates a serene and compassionate space where pets can transition with the dignity and love they deserve, ensuring their final moments are filled with comfort.
  
  To hear from other pet parents about their experiences with Dash, visit her profile and Google reviews.

Yes, your local veterinarian offers in-person and tele-consults depending on availability for a separate fee. In order to reserve a time to speak with a local veterinarian, please call 833-263-2738.

Note: This consultation is aimed at providing advice on end-of-life care and quality-of-life questions. Your veterinarian is not offering telemedicine and is not able to provide specific diagnosis or treatments. If you have any medical needs, please visit your primary care veterinarian.

The notice for every veterinarian differs, however, most veterinarians require at least a 2-hour notice from the time you need them to arrive at your home. This allows them time to prepare and ensure they can provide the highest level of care and compassion for your pet. It also accounts for their travel time, as your veterinarian may be traveling from many different locations around Fort Lauderdale.

While you can request a same-day and emergency services, it's always best to contact us as early as possible to ensure availability and to give both you and your veterinarian time to prepare for this important moment.

During the euthanasia process, your pet will be gently guided to a state of peace and comfort. After a sedative is administered, you can expect them to become calm and relaxed, free from any pain or distress. When the final injection is given, your pet will slowly drift off into a deep sleep before passing away peacefully. Your compassionate veterinarian will ensure the process is as gentle and serene as possible, allowing you to be present with your beloved companion in their final moments of love and care.

Yes, during the in home euthanasia process, you are encouraged to be with your pet throughout the entire process. Being there provides comfort and reassurance to your pet as they pass peacefully.

Dr. Brittany Dash shares the following thoughts on when to consider euthanasia:

"I recommend euthanasia when a pet's quality of life lowers past a point that you would want if you were in their shoes. That line can look different to different people, but having empathy for your pet will help guide you towards the time to make the decision. There is never going to be the perfect time to say goodbye to your pet, but considering euthanasia is the most selfless thing you can do for them. It is easy to want to hold on forever, but these wonderful creatures look to us as their guardians to let them go in peace when the time comes.

In my opinion, one of the best parts about euthanasia is the ability to say goodbye in the comfort of your and your pet's home. The closure of being with your pet as they peacefully pass is invaluable as you close a chapter of your life. Unfortunately, many pet parents don’t get the chance to say goodbye if their pet passes suddenly or overnight, which makes the grieving process much harder. I tell all my clients that I have never had an owner feel that they chose euthanasia too early, but I have had many that say they waited too long." - Dr. Brittany Dash

Everyone’s experience in saying goodbye to their beloved companion is different and very personal. It’s important to consider that you know your pet best. Some considerations, however, are choosing a comfortable space where your pet feels safe, sometimes their favorite spot in your home. Another consideration can be to gather any family members who wish to be present and feel free to bring your pet’s favorite blanket or toys, etc that make them feel comfortable. When your veterinarian arrives they will guide you through each step in the process and help you move at your pace to ensure the process is as peaceful as possible.

Brittany Dash explains the typical duration of the process:

"My appointments typically take 30-45 minutes from arrival to departure. The preparation and IV catheter placement takes about 5 minutes. The sedative takes effect in 5-10 minutes, and the final injection takes about 30-60 seconds. I always make sure every family member gets their time to say their final goodbyes before I depart." - Dr. Brittany Dash

After the euthanasia, you are welcome to spend as much time as you need with your pet to say goodbye. If you’ve chosen any cremation services to handle your pet’s body, your veterinarian will reconfirm your choices and gently transport your pet when you are ready. If you’ve chosen any keepsakes offered by the crematorium, like Claw Paw Prints, Ink nose prints, or other memorabilia, your veterinarian will reconfirm your choices before leaving your home. If you have any questions or want to change your mind about any of your choices, you can discuss your options with your veterinarian before they leave your home.

After the in home euthanasia procedure, your veterinarian will provide you with time to say goodbye to your pet. Once you're ready, they will re-confirm the preferred aftercare option that you choose when reserving your time with your veterinarian. In Fort Lauderdale you can select three types of cremation services:

• Individual Cremation (Ashes Returned): An individual cremation is a process where your pet will be cremated separated with physical barriers in the chamber. This ensures the separation with other pets in the chamber so you may reunite with your pet’s ashes. Your pet’s ashes will be returned to you in an urn of your choice. If you choose an additional urn then your pet’s ashes will be returned in the urn of your choice.
  
• Communal Cremation (No Ashes Returned): A communal cremation is a process where your pet is cremated in a chamber with other pets. Once the process is complete, the crematorium will respectfully scatter your pet’s remains among other pets. It’s important to note, you pet’s ashes will not be returned to you.
  

Some of our veterinarians offer an additional option known as Private Cremation (Ashes Returned). In this option, only your pet is in the cremation chamber, ensuring that the recovered ashes are solely your pet's. These ashes can be returned in an urn of your choice, with additional urn options available. To see if private cremation is available with your provider, please refer to our booking page.

Note: If you choose to leave your pet's body with your veterinarian, rest assured it will be handled with the utmost care, respect, and dignity. Your veterinarian will coordinate all aftercare arrangements as requested, allowing you to focus on yourself and your family after this difficult goodbye.

Your veterinarian will coordinate the return of your pet’s ashes before they leave your home. Your options include having your pet’s remains delivered by your veterinarian (for an additional fee), shipping them to you (for an additional fee), or picking them up from your primary clinic or the crematorium.

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, and we understand that cost can be a concern for many pet parents. While we specialize in premium in-home euthanasia services, we also want to acknowledge that cost may be a concern. If you're looking for low-cost options in Fort Lauderdale, consider reaching out to the following:

• Local Animal Shelters & Humane Societies – Many provide low-cost or donation-based euthanasia services, often with cremation options.
  • Humane Society of Broward County
    2070 Griffin Road Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312
    954-989-3977
    
• Low-Cost Veterinary Clinics & Nonprofits – Some vet clinics and nonprofits offer reduced-cost euthanasia, sometimes supported by grants or donations.
  
• Animal Control Services – In certain cases, local animal control agencies may offer euthanasia services for terminally ill or suffering pets at a lower cost.

Note: When considering a low-cost pet euthanasia option, it's important to call ahead to check availability, as some providers may require an appointment or have eligibility criteria, such as income-based assistance. Be sure to ask about additional costs, including cremation or aftercare services, which may not be included in the base price. Additionally, verify service details, as some options may have restrictions based on your pet’s size, health condition, or location.

While low-cost options are available, many pet parents choose in-home euthanasia to ensure a peaceful, stress-free farewell in the comfort of their home. If you're looking for a private, compassionate experience, we’re here to help.

Dr. Brittany Dash shares insight into who can be present during the euthanasia:

"As many or as few family members as wish to be present are welcome. I frequently work with large families as well as solo individuals. I recommend having those who your pet is familiar with be present to avoid increasing anxiety or discomfort. Anyone is welcome to be present for the entire process, but if they are uncomfortable watching their pet pass, I offer them the option to step out after the sedation but prior to the administration of the final injection. Other household pets are also welcome to be present for support. I usually recommend letting them go about their normal business unless their presence would cause stress to your passing pet. Otherwise, I invite owners to bring them back once the pet is sedated and comfortable. Pet siblings may not immediately understand what is happening but may notice the absence of the deceased pet in the days that follow." - Dr. Brittany Dash