The Complete Guide to End-of-Life Care for Dogs and Cats
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest and most selfless decisions we ever make. As our pets age or face illness, we often find ourselves in unfamiliar territory—unsure of what to expect, how to assess their quality of life, or how to know when it’s time to let go.
This guide is here to gently walk you through the end-of-life journey, offering compassionate, practical support so you can focus on what matters most: providing your pet with love, comfort, and dignity in their final days.
What Is End-of-Life Care for Pets?
End-of-life care focuses on comfort rather than cure. It’s a way of ensuring your dog or cat remains free from unnecessary pain, stress, and fear as their health declines. This may include:
Pain management
Mobility support
Help with toileting or hygiene
Emotional comfort and presence
Guidance around euthanasia and aftercare
Whether your pet is nearing the end of a long life or facing a terminal illness, end-of-life care is about maximising peace and quality of life—not prolonging suffering.
How to Assess Your Pet’s Quality of Life
One of the most common questions we hear is:
“How will I know when it’s time?”
It’s rarely a clear line—but there are signs that your pet may be struggling. Use the Quality of Life Scale below to help you reflect on your pet’s daily experience.
Pet Quality of Life Assessment Questions
Below is a list of questions vets will ask when assessing the health of your pet:
Pain Control – Is their pain managed effectively?
Appetite – Are they still eating or showing interest in food?
Hydration – Are they drinking enough or showing signs of dehydration?
Hygiene – Can they groom or stay clean, or are they soiling themselves?
Mobility – Can they move freely, or are they struggling to get up?
Happiness – Do they still enjoy life, affection, or activities?
Dignity – Can they go to the toilet without distress or shame?
Comfort – Are they relaxed most of the time, or restless and anxious?
If you notice any combination of these symptoms, it’s important to contact a vet quickly.
Quality of life tool
To assist you in making an accurate assessment of your pet’s health, I have created an online tool. This tool will asks you to answer specific questions related to each area of concern. It takes about 5 minutes and will provide you with a recommendation according to the answers you provide.
Why In-Home Care Makes a Difference
Many pets become distressed by clinic visits—loud waiting rooms, unfamiliar smells, or painful examinations. In-home care allows your pet to stay in a safe, familiar environment, surrounded by love. It also gives you more time and privacy to process your emotions and make decisions at your own pace.
Planning for a Peaceful Goodbye
If you’ve decided euthanasia may be the kindest option, planning ahead helps make the process more peaceful for both you and your pet. Here’s what to expect with a gentle in-home euthanasia service:
Free consultation to discuss your pet’s condition
Calm, unhurried visit with an experienced, compassionate vet
Pain-free sedation first so your pet is relaxed and comfortable
Overdose of Anaesthetic administered only when you’re both ready
Time to say goodbye in a space filled with love
Aftercare support, including cremation or memorial options
Supporting Yourself Through Pet Loss
Grieving the loss of a pet is real and valid. You may feel sadness, guilt, or even relief—and all of it is normal. Give yourself time, and consider:
Talking to a pet loss support group or counsellor
Creating a memorial or keepsake
Journaling your favourite memories
Saying goodbye with a letter or ceremony
You’re Not Alone
At Vet at Home, I’’ve supported hundreds of families through this journey with gentleness, time, and empathy. If you’re unsure about your next step, please know there’s no pressure. You can always start with a conversation.
📞 Book a free consultation or visit the Is it time? page to answer the quality of life questionnaire.
