Hoe does euthanasia works?
The veterinarian begins with an injection similar to sedation. It takes about 10 minutes for your pet to fall asleep. Once your pet is sufficiently sleepy, the injection with the euthanasia drug follows. Thanks to the sedation, your pet will not feel anything. Most animals pass away quietly. You may notice muscle twitches or your pet taking one last deep breath; these are bodily reflexes, and your pet will not be aware of them. Often, the pet’s eyes remain open after passing.
After your pet has passed away, the veterinarian will listen to the heart to confirm death. You will then have all the time you need to say a peaceful goodbye to your loyal companion. You may consider clipping a lock of fur or taking one last photo with your pet.
What happens after death?
There are various options available after your pet’s passing. Just like humans, pets can be either cremated or buried. You have the option to take your pet to the crematorium or burial site yourself, or the veterinarian can arrange the transportation for you. Your pet can be cremated either individually or with other animals. In a group cremation, your pet’s ashes will be respectfully scattered over the North Sea. If you choose an individual cremation, you can request to have your pet’s ashes returned to you. Once your pet has passed away at the clinic, the Pet Funeral Center will contact you within two business days to discuss all of your personal wishes.
If you choose not to opt for cremation or burial, you may leave your pet with us. We will ensure that your pet, along with other deceased animals, is collected. This is known as destruction, where the pet is collected and processed by the municipality. There are costs associated with this.
Coping with the loss of your pet
Everyone handles grief and loss differently. After the passing of your pet, you or your family members may experience a wide range of emotions, such as denial, disbelief, and guilt.
The loss of a pet is difficult, and it’s common to feel sadness and loneliness afterward. Making the incredibly tough decision to let them go often leads to feelings of guilt. This is completely normal. Many health problems cause discomfort or pain for your pet, which is not always visible. Having the privilege to say goodbye is a true act of love, ensuring that your pet no longer has to endure unnecessary pain.
Deregistering your dog
In Hoofddorp, there is no dog tax, so you do not need to notify the municipality. However, if your pet was insured, the insurance company will often require a death certificate in addition to the invoice for the euthanasia. If you need this document, please let us know, and we can provide it for you.
Is your pet microchipped and registered? Don’t forget to deregister them from the database. Dogs born after April 1, 2013, or imported after that date, are subject to a regulation requiring them to be registered with a recognized database. After passing, they must be deregistered within 14 days.