Can you come to my home to evaluate my pet for this process?
Do you offer any help with bereavement?
What is veterinary in-home hospice?
Should my children be present?
How far in advance should we schedule our appointment?
Do you provide these services on weekends or holidays?
What if my pet has already passed away? Can you help with aftercare?
What is the process like?
Dr. Holland’s most important goal is to provide comfort. Both, in ending suffering of a beloved pet without physical discomfort or fear, and also your family’s comfort in knowing you are making the best decision possible. From the time our veterinarian enters your home, the experience will be calm and relaxed. It’s a good idea to have your pet in a familiar location that they love – perhaps on a favorite blanket or bed.
The euthanasia is two-step process. A sedative is administered first so your pet is essentially in a deep sleep – no more pain and no anxiety. Only after your pet is fully sedated our doctor will place an intravenous catheter to allow a smooth administration of the euthanasia solution which painlessly stops the heart. In some cases, due to the health condition of your pet, an intravenous catheter may not be possible and an alternative administration method must be used. Our veteriarians will go over any details that may pertain to your pet’s specific health condition. The process is peaceful, and you will not be rushed to say your goodbyes. Our services are private and personalized for you, we allow as much time as you need.
We use the highest level of care for the procedure and our standards are modeled after the American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines. We place an intravenous catheter when medically possible. This is a more time consuming procedure but we are committed to the highest standard of care.
If you have chosen for us to handle your aftercare, your doctor will take your pet directly to the crematorium. Dr. Holland has personally vetted her partners to make sure they have the same high standards of care that she does.
We will be glad to explain further details of this process over the phone or text. If you would like to schedule a pre-euthanasia at home consultation or zoom consultation to go over the details, please let us know.
Do you provide aftercare?
Yes. There are several options for aftercare for you to choose from.
- We can leave your pet with you to care for afterwards. Be advised that some city ordinances, such as in Raleigh or Durham, may prohibit you from burying your pet inside city limits.
- We can take your pet to one of our pet cremation or aquamation partners to have your pet privately cremated and the ashes available for pick up at the crematory office usually within 7 days.
- We can take your pet to one of our pet cremation or aquamation partners to have your pet communally cremated with no return of ashes to you.
we will provide 1 clay paw imprint keepsake with all care levels
We have taken the time to meet with our aftercare providers and ensure that they meet the same high standards of care as the Azure Holland Team. Our End of Life Care Coordinator will manage the logistics, make scheduling arrangements and monitor the process. However, if you would like to make your own aftercare arrangements, please let us know and we can offer suggestions. See our services page for more information on our Care Levels.
Can you come to my home to evaluate my pet for this process?
Yes. We can visit you and your pet for assessment and share professional opinions to help you decide if it is time to help your cat or dog go to sleep peacefully at home. Our doctors are able to evaluate for pet hospice or palliative care as well. Please see our services page for more information.
Do you offer any help with bereavement?
Dr. Holland is the only mobile veterinarian providing euthanasia house calls in the Triangle who has been trained by Dr. Wallace Sife, Ph.D. of The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement. Our team will spend as much time with you as necessary. Our services are not rushed, we are not a volume practice. Additionally, our doctors will leave you with resources after your appointment that can help you and your family during this time. For more information about The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement please visit http://aplb.org
What is veterinary home hospice?
Veterinary home hospice is an option for a pet owner who is facing a terminal diagnosis or their pet has reached an advanced age and needs assistance in maintaining a comfort level. Our veterinarians will evaluate your pet and offer a care plan that is designed to help your pet remain comfortable during this time. If you choose, our doctors will speak to your regular veterinarian about your pet’s condition and diagnosis so that a customized care plan can be established for your pet. Pet hospice is not about curing, instead, its about maintaining your pet’s dignity and comfort through the end of their life. In some cases, pet hospice can be an alternative to euthanasia.
Home pet hospice may include: fluid therapy, pain management and nutritional guidance. Our mobile veterinarians will spend time with you and help you understand what to expect and crisis management techniques. Our home pet hospice programs are customized for you and may include only one visit to establish the care plan or regular visits to help with the administration of therapies or medications.
Should my children be present?
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most tender and emotional moments a family can share. When it comes to including children in that experience, there is no one-size-fits-all answer — just the needs of your child, your family, and your pet’s comfort.
At Azure Holland, we believe children can be included in this process in a way that is gentle, age-appropriate, and guided with love. In fact, when thoughtfully supported, many children gain a deeper understanding of the cycle of life, compassion, and what it means to love and let go.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Every Child is Different
You know your child best. Some children may want to be fully present, holding their pet’s paw and offering comfort. Others may prefer to say their goodbyes earlier and be in another room. Both choices are okay. Let them know there is no “right” way — only their way. - Honesty Builds Trust
Using gentle, clear language helps children feel safe and included. Saying things like, “We’re helping Bella pass peacefully so she doesn’t hurt anymore,” is often more comforting than vague or confusing phrases like “put to sleep.” Honest words, paired with emotional support, help children feel secure. - Ritual Can Bring Comfort
Some families light a candle, share stories, draw pictures, or place flowers around their pet. These small acts of love can give children a role in the goodbye — a sense of meaning and connection during a difficult time. - The Home Advantage
One of the beautiful aspects of in-home euthanasia is that it happens in a familiar, safe space. Your child can sit in their favorite chair, cuddle with their pet on the couch, or say goodbye surrounded by love — not in a sterile exam room. Home allows room for softness, and space for tears. - You’re Not Alone
If you’re unsure whether to include your child, we’re here to talk it through with you. Azure Holland and her team have helped thousands of families navigate this decision with compassion and care. We can offer guidance on how to prepare, what to expect, and how to support your child before, during, and after.
Gentle Goodbyes Begin With Loving Choices
Whether your child is by your side or nearby, what matters most is that your pet is surrounded by love — and that your family feels supported in each step. We’re here to hold space for all of you..
Dr. Wallace Sife, Ph.D. writes in his book The Loss of a Pet, “Treat the death of a pet with understanding, love, and care allowing the child to benefit from your example and strength.”
Should other pets be present?
Our veterinarians will discuss this with you as it varies, but in many cases it can be beneficial and offer support.
How far in advance should we schedule our appointment?
It is preferred to give at least 24 hours notice, but we understand that there are situations that may become more urgent unexpectedly. It has been our experience that establishing an early relationship with our office is preferred so that you learn about our schedule and process. If your pet has recently been given a terminal diagnosis, it is best to call or text so that you may plan for end-of-life care. Our office hours are Monday-Friday 9:00 am- 5:00 pm. We monitor phone calls and texts lightly over the weekends and holidays.
We are not an emergency service, if you dog or cat is having an emergency, please call or go to your closest vet ER
Do you provide these services on weekends or holidays?
Our veterinarians may be available on weekends and holidays for hospice and euthanasia appointments. Please call or text to discuss your individual situation.
919-600-1841
What if my pet has already passed away? Can you help with aftercare?
Yes. Our veterinarians are glad to be able to assist you. Charges will vary by pet size and aftercare option.
How do we start the process?
First give us a call or text; our end of life care coordinator will get some preliminary information from you about your pet, share care level and appointment details and help you reserve your appointment. 919-600-1841
Our calls and texts are monitored Monday-Friday 9-5p, lightly monitored on Saturdays, and we are closed on Sundays. You may text anytime and we will get back to you as soon as we re-open. We are not an emergency service.
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