How Much Does In-Home Pet Euthanasia Cost?

You may be considering euthanizing your pet to end your furry friend’s suffering. You may also be wondering how much home pet euthanasia costs. We’re explaining the costs of pet euthanasia at home, the factors affecting the fees, and options for payment.

How Much Does In-Home Pet Euthanasia Cost?

The cost of pet euthanasia at home services varies, although it averages from $350 to $535. The final price depends on your location, and the after-care plan you decide upon. You may also incur extra fees for transportation and memorial items.Woman cuddling with her dog while seated on a brown sofa

If you want to explore pet euthanasia at home, it’s vital that you know the typical expenses so you can plan the best way to say goodbye to your beloved pet.

Factors for Cost of Euthanizing Pets at Home

While the average cost of in-home dog euthanasia starts at $350, the final price may depend on different factors. You must be aware of the other services that generally come with euthanization so you can prepare emotionally and financially.

Location

Location is the primary factor that influences the price of pet euthanasia. It’s highly dependent on how far your home is from the facility.

Having the procedure at home can bring comfort to your pet, ensuring they are surrounded by a familiar environment in their final moments.  To give you an idea, Paws Into Grace serves San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange Counties. Each area has a corresponding rate.

Physical Examination and Assessment

Before considering euthanasia, further testing may be recommended. We can schedule an appointment to discuss your pet’s diagnosis and prognosis through a quality-of-life evaluation. It may also be beneficial to consult your regular veterinarian for physical examinations and additional assessments.Little girl embracing her white dog out in the field

The average pet owner spends around $611 annually on healthcare costs for planned vet visits. While the prices may depend on your vet clinic’s rates, expect to pay a minimum of $100 for emergency tests.

Post-procedure and After-Care Plan

The minimum price of euthanizing pets at home starts at $350. This rate can increase depending on how your after-care plan.

  • Cremation: Pet cremation can be either individual or communal. Communal cremation costs start at $175, and individual cremation may cost $275. Cremation fees usually depend on the animal’s weight and the distance from the cremation facility. 
  • Urn: There are various types of urns available to hold your pet’s ashes. Paws into Grace includes a standard urn with the cremation cost. However, you have the option to upgrade to a different urn, with prices starting at $70 for small pets and up to approximately $150 for larger pet urn vases.
  • Memorial items: While they are optional, memorial items help keep your pet’s memory alive. The most cost-effective items are custom ornaments or a custom keychain with your pet’s name, which costs around $75.

Extra Services

Extra services can make your euthanasia appointment more convenient. These are usually optional and often for emergency purposes. However, payment terms for additional services can be non-refundable.

  • Grief support: End-of-life decision-making can be a heartbreaking matter. Some facilities offer grief support to help you accept the situation and move on while honoring your pet’s memories. We have an hourly rate for our certified pet loss grief support specialist, whereas our retired licensed clinical social worker offers pro bono services.
  • After-hours services: Most euthanasia service providers charge an after-hour fee. For Paws Into Grace, appointments after 5:30 PM may incur an after-hour fee.
  • Transportation: Our local transport pick-up rate starts at $75. After-hours between 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM have an additional fee. Careful transportation is fundamental in bringing your pet’s body from your home to our cremation facility. 
  • Cancellation policy: Some facilities require a credit card to reserve an appointment time. Your card will not be charged until the appointment. You must pay the full appointment fee if you cancel your appointment within two hours of our team’s scheduled arrival.

Dog with a leash on, chilling on a beachHow Can I Save Money When I Need to Euthanize My Pet?

The best way to ensure you stay within your budget is to request an estimate. This allows us to work within your needs while providing your pet with the peaceful transition they deserve. You may also get financial assistance through CareCredit, especially if you face out-of-pocket costs.

Thinking about expenses can make it harder to deal with euthanasia. Most at-home pet euthanasia services start at $350. Prices can go up depending on the cremation and memorial items you choose to add on. 

Considering euthanization for your pet can trigger a range of emotions, especially grief, guilt, and fear. Your feelings are highly vulnerable when losing a pet, and the accompanying finances can cloud your judgment.

Related Questions

How Long Does an In-Home Euthanasia Typically Last?

In-home pet euthanasia typically takes about one hour, depending on factors such as the initial assessment, sedation time, family goodbyes, the pet’s condition, and aftercare arrangements. It’s best to allow 45-90 minutes for a typical appointment.

Who Can Euthanize Pets at Homes?

Licensed veterinarians will conduct the euthanasia at your home. Paws Into Grace consists of compassionate veterinarians assisted by a support team to guarantee the whole process will be respectful for both the pets and the owners.

Is Euthanizing a Pet at Home Better Than in a Clinic?

Home euthanasia would be better than bringing your pet to a clinic if you want more privacy, allowing you to spend more time with your pet, and letting your furry friend have a familiar environment. However, it’s more expensive than an in-clinic procedure because staff will spend time traveling and bringing equipment.

Conclusion

While in-home pet euthanasia costs vary, Paws Into Grace offers a starting rate of $350. As a responsible pet owner, you must know your options and possible expenses. When the time comes to make the tough decision, you can focus on spending time with your pet during their final moments.

Dr. Benson started Paws into Grace in 2007. She wanted to give pets and their parents a beautiful last encounter that didn't have to be in an unfamiliar office where pets were often frightened. The empathy she shows each family creates a lasting impression on them. In her free time, Dr. Benson enjoys running and spending time with her family, dogs, cats, and chickens.

  

Testimonials

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who... read more

Renee C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him... read more

Diane C.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but... read more

Terry A.

Renee C.

I can't recommend them enough. I had to say goodbye to my 21 year old cat companion. I read the reviews here on Yelp and chose Paws Into Grace and they made an unbearable situation not worse - from the people on the phone to the amazing doctor who came out to the house. She was so understanding and supportive. They were all so helpful, understanding and nice. My girl got to stay at home and say goodbye in the backyard (a hummingbird flew over and it seemed like a good sign too). So glad I didn't have to take her to a cold vet office.

Diane C.

My absolute love Dante had heart failure three months ago. After having him on many medications to help him, his enthusiasm and appetite declined last couple of days. He was in pain and we decided to help him go to heaven rather than torturing him with more medications which would make him even more miserable. I called and spoke to a very kind lady who was patient as I cried through making an appointment. We made an appointment for 1:30pm. Dr. Toni arrived. She was very kind, explained everything to us and gave us the time to be with our boy after the first shot. He wasn't relaxing enough so she gave him a second shot. We stayed with him throughout the entire process and I carried him to her car in the end. It was a very difficult decision but knowing that our boy is not in pain, gives us some peace. We are thankful to Dr. Toni for her kindness and compassion. They will arrange the cremation for us. Since we are in a pandemic, we had our masks on and said goodbye to our boy in our garden.

Terry A.

I wanted to thank you for sending Dr. Brown to euthanize our beloved Myleigh on March 4, 2021. She was compassionate and accommodating, she explained every step of the procedure, and gave us some alone time with Myleigh after she sedated her, but before she attached the IV. We were relieved that we made the decision to let her go to doggy heaven at home. It was a tranquil and serene passing for her, and it very much aids us in the grieving and healing process knowing that she passed away so peacefully. Based on the grace and compassion Dr. Brown demonstrated on one of the most awful days of our lives we would not hesitate to recommend Paws Into Grace for others facing this very painful time.
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