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 foremost priority is comfort—both in gently relieving your pet’s suffering and in supporting your family through one of life’s most difficult decisions. From the moment our veterinarian enters your home, the atmosphere is intentionally calm, unhurried, and respectful. We encourage families to choose a quiet, comfortable space indoors—ideally on the main or lower level of the home—where your pet feels most at ease, such as on a favorite bed or blanket.
The euthanasia process is thoughtfully designed to be peaceful and free of fear or discomfort. It begins with a gentle sedative that allows your pet to fall into a deep, restful sleep—free from pain and anxiety. Once full sedation is achieved, an intravenous catheter is placed whenever medically possible to ensure the smooth and painless administration of the final medication, which quietly stops the heart.
In some cases, due to a pet’s medical condition, IV placement may not be feasible. When this occurs, our veterinarian will carefully explain alternative methods and guide you through what to expect. Each step is tailored to your pet’s individual needs.
Your time together is never rushed. Our visits are private, personalized, and centered on honoring your bond. We allow space for quiet reflection, goodbyes, and meaningful moments.
Our medical standards follow the highest level of care and are modeled after American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines. We prioritize IV catheter placement when appropriate, even though it requires additional time, because we are committed to excellence and compassion in every detail.
Additional details may be discussed in advance through a scheduled phone call or general virtual consultation, when available.
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.
- Our aftercare provider comes to your home at the end or shortly after the end of your appointment to transport your pet safely and securely.
- Your Dr. can take your pet to one of our aftercare partners to have your pet cared for private or communal (with other pets) *there is an added fee for this please ask.
1 clay paw print keepsake is included 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 supports families facing a terminal diagnosis or advanced age by focusing on comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Our team thoughtfully assess your pet and create a personalized care plan designed to maintain peace and comfort during this stage.
Hospice care is not about curing—it is about honoring your pet’s life through compassionate, attentive support. In some cases, it may serve as a gentle alternative to euthanasia.
Services may include pain management, fluid therapy, and nutritional guidance. Our mobile doctors take time to educate and support you, helping you understand what to expect and how to navigate changes with confidence. Each care plan is fully customized and may include a single visit or ongoing support, depending on your family’s needs.
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 and text so that you may plan for end-of-life care. Our office hours are Monday-Friday 9:00 am- 7:00 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 team is 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 9-7p, lightly monitored on weekends. You may text anytime and we will get back to you as soon as we re-open. We are not an emergency service.