Owner Requested Euthanasia

The decision to put a beloved pet to sleep is both a heartbreaking and difficult one. At the Humane Society of Ventura County, we understand that losing a best friend is one of the hardest things to go through but can often be the kindest decision. The HSVC has trained and experienced veterinary staff that can assist in humanely ending your pet’s suffering and help you through the difficult time that follows.

Please see the following link for information on making this decision and what to expect in general: Assessing Quality of Life & Euthanasia in Companion Animals

APPOINTMENTS:

Please contact us at (805) 646-6505 to schedule an appointment. Appointments are currently available on Fridays at 1:30 PM and Saturdays at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. We may be able to schedule outside of these times on a case-by-case basis, but this is not guaranteed. Anything requiring emergency evaluation (ie trouble breathing, trauma, active hemorrhaging, distress, or other similar concerns) should instead be seen by a nearby ER hospital - do not wait for an appointment. Nearby ERs can be found below.

Our appointment cost is $75 and includes the procedure itself. Further costs depend on aftercare options (see below). Financial assistance may be available with proof of hardship.

BEFORE THE APPOINTMENT:

Please ensure that we receive your pet’s veterinary records at least 24 hours prior to their appointment. Your veterinarian can email these directly to us at [email protected]. We strongly recommend you visit with your full-service veterinarian prior to scheduling with us to fully discuss your pet’s condition and what other options may be available.

If you do not have veterinary records, please discuss alternative proof of ownership with our staff when you call to schedule the appointment.

DURING THE APPOINTMENT:

We offer humane euthanasia with the owner present or as a drop-off appointment. If you wish to remain present with your pet, please plan for the process to take ~1 hour in total.

If you are unable to remain present, you will still need to speak to the veterinarian after you arrive, so please allow ~30 minutes.

Please arrive ~15 minutes prior to the appointment to finish filling out the paperwork.

AFTER THE APPOINTMENT:

Following your pet’s passing, we will care for them with dignity in the manner of your choosing. We offer private (ashes returned) and group cremation (no ashes returned), as well as clay paw prints. Fees for these services vary based on your pet’s size; please inquire about current cost when calling to schedule your visit.

You may also take your pet’s remains with you, though home burial is discouraged as the medication used for euthanasia may harm wildlife and the environment. Local laws/ordinances may also prohibit this practice, so ensure you are aware of these before proceeding.

The following link contains many resources to help you and your family process the loss of your beloved pet: Pet Loss Support Information

NEARBY EMERGENCY HOSPITALS: