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An older dog laying down

Compassionate End-of-Life Care

A candle lit to say goodbye

At Dupont Veterinary Clinic, we understand that saying goodbye to a cherished pet is an incredibly challenging and emotional experience. Our compassionate end-of-life care services are designed to provide support, comfort, and dignity for your pet. We’re committed to helping pet owners make the decisions that are right for their families and their pets.

Hospice Care

For pets facing terminal illnesses, our hospice care ensures that they receive the highest level of comfort and pain management. This allows pet owners to spend quality time through a pet’s last days. In hospice care, the emphasis is on providing a peaceful, loving environment for pets to find solace and comfort and for families to find closure.

Goodbye Kisses

Saying Goodbye

When the time comes to say goodbye, our experienced team provides a peaceful and painless transition for your pet. We prioritize your pet's comfort and emotional well-being during this difficult time. The decision to proceed with medically necessary euthanasia is a personal one, but there are signs pet owners can watch for if they are concerned about quality of life:

  • Symptoms like not eating, crying out in pain, and signs that the pet is consistently in distress or discomfort can be indications of a declining quality of life.
  • Pets that are not engaging or aware of their surroundings or that no longer participate in activities they previously enjoyed may be struggling.
  • Pet owners can track their pets’ good days and bad days. If the bad days far outnumber the good, it may be time to talk to your veterinarian.

Choosing euthanasia is never easy, but this option may be right for pet owners who want to help their pets pass away with a calm, peaceful, and less painful death. At our clinic, families saying goodbye are treated with the utmost care. We have a candle in our lobby which we light as a silent indication to other patients in the clinic that a family is saying goodbye to a beloved pet. This is meant to encourage others to give families respect and space as they grieve.

Families who choose euthanasia for their pets have the care and support of our staff throughout the entire process. The experience is quiet and comfortable for pets, allowing them to pass painlessly and with dignity. We also offer “goodbye kisses,” small pieces of chocolate that can be shared with pets before they pass. Families can stay with their pets throughout the process if they choose, and we are vigilant about ensuring that pets aren’t anxious or in pain during any part of their transition.

Memorials

To honor and celebrate the life of your pet, we offer memorial options. Families can take their pets home for burial, or we can assist with cremation services. Pet owners can then return for the ashes, and we have urns and keepsake boxes available.

As an alternative, Trusted Journey offers a community cremation option. The organization can spread a pet’s ashes at the Pet Rest Garden, a natural, beautiful location with a lake, flower gardens, and curated grounds located in Ossian, Indiana. Pet Rest Gardens also feature a mausoleum if pet owners prefer to inter pet remains there. Burial plots are also available. Families are welcome to visit 365 days a year by appointment.

Pet Rest Gardens
1630 E US 224, Ossian, IN 46777
Monday–Friday: 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sunday, Holidays: 7:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
A cat being kept comfortable

Helping You and Your Pet During This Difficult Time

As pet owners ourselves, we understand the bond between you and your pet, and we provide support and empathy throughout the process. Your pet's comfort and dignity are our top priorities, ensuring that their final moments are peaceful and free from pain. We involve you in the decision-making process, and provide a serene environment for your goodbyes.

At Dupont Veterinary Clinic, our mission is to ensure that your pet's final journey is filled with love, compassion, and respect. We are here to support you and your beloved companion every step of the way


Please reach out to discuss our end-of-life care services or to schedule a consultation during this emotional time.