Answers To Common Questions

End-of-Life Care

  • I recommend euthanasia when a pet's quality of life lowers past a point that the family finds acceptable. That line can look different to different people but having empathy for your pet will help to guide you towards the time to make the decision.

    There is never going to be the perfect time to say goodbye to your pet but considering euthanasia is the most selfless and loving thing you can do for them. It is tempting to want to hold on forever but these wonderful creatures look to us as their guardians to be able to let them go in peace when the time comes.

    In my opinion, one of the silver linings about euthanasia is the ability to say goodbye in an environment that brings comfort to your pet and their family. The closure of being with your pet as they peacefully pass is invaluable as you close a chapter of your life.

    Unfortunately, many pet parents don't get the chance to say goodbye if their pet passes suddenly or overnight, which makes the grieving process much harder. I have not had an owner feel that they chose euthanasia too early but I have had many that feel guilty that they waited too long.

    If you are unsure if euthanasia is the right path, please contact me and I would be happy to discuss your pet’s specific case.

  • It can sometimes be hard to determine if and how much your pet is suffering, especially since they may not outwardly show it.

    I recommend starting by assessing if your pet still likes to do the things they used to. For example, eating their favorite treats, playing fetch, greeting you at the door, walking outside, laying in the sun, etc. If you notice that they have stopped doing some or all of the activities they used to enjoy then a concern for a poor quality of life arises. I remind pet parents that mental suffering is just as important as physical suffering. Some pets may seem "normal" to the stranger passing by but you as the guardian know your pet best.

    As for physical discomfort, there are certain diseases that do bring associated pain including kidney failure, liver failure, heart failure, arthritis, and seizures to name a few. Cancers and significant loss of body weight can also cause your pet to feel generally weak and lethargic.

    If you are at all concerned, I encourage you to bring up the topic to your primary veterinarian or schedule me for an in-home consultation.

  • More often than not, when a pet dies it can be traumatic for both the pets and their families.

    Depending on the condition, your pet may suffer from internal bleeding, a heart attack, a stroke, suffocation, or fatal seizures. In addition, it is very common for these emergencies to occur while pets are home alone or overnight while family members are asleep.

    The term “euthanasia” translates to “good death” and allows us to ensure that your pet will transition to the Rainbow Bridge in a peaceful and painless manner. The opportunity to say your goodbyes is vital to the grieving process.

  • In-home pet hospice, or pawspice, is compassionate, supportive care focused on comfort, dignity, and quality of life for pets with serious or life-limiting conditions. Care is provided in the familiar surroundings of home, allowing pets to remain calm and comfortable while families receive guidance, education, and emotional support. Hospice care may include comfort-focused medical management, pain control, symptom relief, and assistance with end-of-life planning to help families make informed, loving decisions. Hospice is not intended to diagnose or treat disease or to extend life, but rather to prioritize comfort, peace, and quality of life during this meaningful time.

    I strongly encourage pet parents to schedule a hospice appointment if they feel their pet needs supportive care before their final sunset.

Considering Euthanasia

  • My purpose for in-home euthanasia is to bring peace to both your pet and their family. I start by discussing your pet's history, performing an abbreviated physical assessment, and answer any questions. This can be brief or extensive depending on the needs of the family.

    Next, I prepare the first injection that contains a combination of an opiate for pain control and a heavy sedative to ensure that your pet is not aware of the rest of the process. This injection is given in the muscle and takes about 5-10 minutes to take effect. If your pet still seems awake or in pain, I will give a second dose to make certain that they are comfortable. Once your pet is appropriately sedated, I give the final injection through the vein and your pet will pass away quickly, usually about 1-2 minutes.

    For most cats, I do not use the IV method because their veins are typically very small, especially when they are very thin. Therefore, I place the final injection directly into the abdomen. This method can take a few minutes longer for your pet to pass but is also painless since they will have heavy pain and sedative medications in effect.

    I then will confirm that there is no heartbeat then give the family a few minutes alone to say goodbye. Once you are ready, I will place your pet in a basket (for cats and small dogs) or on a stretcher (for large dogs) with blankets and move them into my vehicle. For larger pets, I will request the help of a family member for loading.

    All pets are handled respectfully during the transportation and cremation process.

  • My appointments typically take 30-45 minutes from arrival to departure. The introduction and prep takes about 5-10 minutes. The sedative takes effect in 5-10 minutes and the final injection takes about 1-5 minutes. Additional time is reserved to allow every family member to say their final goodbyes before I depart.

  • As many or as few family members who wish to be present are welcome. I frequently work with large families as well as couples and individuals. I recommend having those who your pet is familiar with be present to minimize any anxiety or discomfort.

    Everyone may be present for the entire process. If anyone expresses that they are uncomfortable watching their pet pass, I will give them a few moments to exit the room prior to the administration of the final injection.

    Other household pets are also welcome to be present for support. It is best to allow them to go about their normal business unless their presence would cause stress to your passing pet. In those cases, I invite owners to bring them back out once their pet has passed.

    Pet siblings may not immediately understand what is happening but may notice the missing presence of your deceased pet over the subsequent few days.

  • There is nothing specific you need to do to prepare for a euthanasia appointment. I encourage families to focus on being present and spending meaningful time with their pet in their final hours.

    If your pet is up for it, you might take them for a last car ride, a stroll in the park, or let them enjoy a favorite treat like steak or burgers. It’s important not to push them if they’re uncomfortable — even simply laying together, giving cuddles, pets, and kisses can be incredibly meaningful.

    Keeping your pet comfortable and letting them know they are loved is the most important thing you can do during this special time.

  • The procedure can be performed anywhere you and your pet feel most comfortable. I have supported families in many settings, including on the beach, in cars, backyards, parks, and lakeside.

    I can also arrange to meet at a local pet funeral home for an indoor location that still offers privacy. If you prefer to remain at home, any space that feels right for you and your pet is perfectly acceptable — whether that’s the living room, bedroom, patio, kitchen, or another quiet place.

    Together we will honor your pet and provide a peaceful experience in a location that feels most meaningful to you.

  • Yes, absolutely. I encourage families to say prayers, recite poems, share stories, or hold a small ceremony during the appointment if they wish.

    This time is yours, and you are welcome to express yourself in any way that feels meaningful. Many families find that these moments help honor their pet’s life and bring comfort during the grieving process.

    My goal is to provide a peaceful, supportive space where you can say goodbye in a way that feels right for you and your beloved companion.

  • Yes, behavioral euthanasia is an option. I understand that choosing euthanasia for behavioral reasons can be one of the most difficult and emotionally complex decisions a family may face.

    In situations where a pet’s behavior poses a significant risk of harm to people or other animals, it is important to recognize the seriousness of that risk. If a pet has bitten a person, we must wait at least 10 days from the date of the last bite before the euthanasia appointment can take place due to state regulations.

    Pets that display severe aggression may be subject to seizure by animal control and could be euthanized without the family present, in addition to potential legal consequences for the pet’s owner.

    I believe behavioral euthanasia has a place in responsible pet ownership and in protecting the safety of those around us. I also recognize how painful it can be to say goodbye to a pet who is otherwise physically healthy, and I approach these appointments with compassion, respect, and most importantly without judgment.

  • Absolutely. As a medical practitioner, I have a responsibility to uphold ethical standards and only perform euthanasia when it is truly warranted.

    If after a physical exam and discussion with you, I feel that euthanasia is not the right option for your pet, I will communicate that openly and honestly.

    While this situation is rare — as families are often very aware of their pet’s declining condition — my priority is always to provide guidance that respects both the well-being of your pet and your family’s needs.

The Euthanasia Appointment

  • Once you have determined that euthanasia is the best option for your pet, you can schedule a euthanasia appointment at any time.

    Some families schedule a few days in advance to allow time to do special activities with their beloved pet while others schedule same-day if their pet is suffering.

    If you are interested in euthanasia, I encourage you to contact me to discuss the best date and time that works for you. I offer several daytime, evening, late night, weekend, and holiday appointments to accommodate a variety of schedules. I also accept calls 24/7.

  • You can schedule an appointment anytime by calling or texting me directly at 954-665-8605. You can also complete the form on my Contact Us page.

    Full payment is required to book an appointment. Your time slot is not reserved until full payment is received and failure to do so may cause your time to be given to another family.

  • Yes, euthanasia appointments for multiple animals can be scheduled. While these situations are uncommon, tragedy can sometimes affect more than one beloved pet at the same time.

    I have experience guiding families through these uniquely intense and emotional appointments with care, patience, and sensitivity.

    Each pet is treated with the same dignity and respect, and families are supported throughout the process to help them navigate this difficult time with compassion and understanding.

  • I am based out of Coral Springs, FL. I service all of Broward county, the southern part of Palm Beach county, and the northern part of Miami-Dade county. The full list of included cities can be found here.

    Further distances may be accommodated upon request.

  • I mainly accept payment via Zelle. I can also accept cash, credit cards (subject to a 3% processing fee), and CareCredit (subject to a 5% processing fee).

    CareCredit is a special credit card from Synchrony Bank used for a variety of medical purposes, including veterinary. It offers various deferred interest plans, usually starting at 6 months.

    If interested, an application may be completed via my unique provider link here.

  • In-home euthanasia appointments start at $450 based on location and pet size. Aftercare service starts at $200 for communal cremation and $300 for private cremation. Additional fees for oversized pets, pets with aggression, extended travel distances, and holidays may apply.

    A complete detailed pricing list can be found here.

  • Due to the time-sensitive nature of euthanasia appointments, it is important for me to be available to all families that may be in need of service.

    When booking I reserve enough time to allow each family to not feel rushed when saying goodbye to their beloved pet. In order to continue this practice, I can only reserve time slots once payment has been made.

    Cancellations with more than 24 hours notice will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice will be subject to a 100% cancellation fee. Appointments may be rescheduled once but will incur a 100% cancellation fee for any cancellation thereafter.

    If your pet passes naturally, the euthanasia fee will be reduced to a pet pickup fee and the same cremation fee will apply.

    I understand that euthanasia is a deeply emotional and difficult topic to discuss, especially in terms of finances. I aim to be flexible and empathetic to every family as we navigate this time together.

Scheduling and Booking

  • After your pet has transitioned to the Rainbow Bridge, I will take them with me and transport them to be cremated.

    Communal cremation involves your pet being cremated alongside other pets and you will not get any remains back. These ashes are respectfully buried at sea.

    Private cremation allows your pet to be cremated individually and the ashes will be hand delivered back to your door. This package includes a wooden urn with an engraving of your pet’s name well as a paw print and certificate of cremation.

    Other keepsakes such as additional paw prints, nose prints, fur clippings, upgraded urns and jewelry can be purchased upon request. Rest assured that your pet is handled with the utmost care and respect during the transportation and cremation process.

    I offer both traditional fire cremation as well as aquamation. Aquamation is a water-based alternative to cremation that uses alkaline hydrolysis to break down a pet's body. Once the soft tissue has been dissolved, the skeletal remains are dried out to produce ashes. Aquamation allows for the body to be processed the way it would in nature but in a much faster timeframe.

    A complete detailed list of cremation options and keepsake images can be found here.

  • The delivery timeframe is 2–3 weeks, although this may be longer during peak times or holidays. Ashes will be delivered to your door by my assistant.

    You will receive a text the day before or the day of delivery with an approximate delivery time window. You do not need to be home. Ashes may be left at the door, in the mailbox, or with the front desk (if applicable). Special delivery requests will be accommodated when possible, but cannot be guaranteed.

    Expedited cremation and returns may be available for an additional fee, must be requested within 24 hours, and the turnaround time is typically 7–10 days.

  • The crematoriums I partner with handle each pet with the utmost respect and care. For private cremations, each pet is assigned a unique QR code that follows them throughout the cremation process. This ensures that pets are always properly identified and reunited with their families.

  • Yes, you can choose to bury your pet at home. I support any decision feels right for you and your family. That said, I typically recommend cremation over burial, as handling a deceased pet can be distressing.

    If you do choose to bury your pet at home, it’s important to check local laws and ordinances, especially for pets that were euthanized, as the medications used can be toxic to wildlife once your pet begins to decompose.

Aftercare

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International Travel Certificates

  • An international health certificate is an official document that is required to take an animal to a foreign country. It certifies that the identified animal is healthy and has the proper vaccinations, medications, and testing as required by the destination country.

    For animals residing in the US, this document must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and submitted to the USDA for endorsement. Without the proper documentation, your pet will be refused entry into the destination country and may be detained or seized.

    Additional documentation may also be required for the animal’s re-entry into the US.

  • The requirements for a IHC vary depending on the destination country. Most countries require core vaccinations, such as rabies and distemper, as well as fecal testing to screen for parasites. They may also limit the type, number, or ages of animals allowed for admission.

    Some countries have more extensive requirements, which may include additional vaccines, blood tests, or treatments. These tests can take several weeks for results to return and may be costly, so advance planning is essential.

    I strongly recommend reviewing the specific entry requirements for your destination country on the USDA APHIS Pet Travel website to gain an understanding of regulations before travel.

  • International health certificates are valid for a limited window of time, often ranging from 10 to 30 days before departure, depending on destination rules. Health certificates are only valid for the specific travel details and individual animal listed and cannot be changed once endorsed.

    Timing is critical, and certificates must be issued within the correct window to be accepted.

  • Yes. A physical examination is required as part of completing the international health certificate and must be performed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 10 days of departure.

    This exam confirms your pet is healthy and fit for travel and allows me to verify that all required documentation is accurate and complete.

    The IHC package includes an in-home physical assessment. Any necessary testing or vaccinations are additional.

    Please note, a health certificate will NOT be issued if the pet is not found to be healthy on physical exam or has abnormal test results and all fees are non-refundable.

  • When traveling with multiple pets, each animal will need its own individual health certificate. Some countries may limit the number of animals allowed to accompany each traveler.

    In addition, airlines may have their own policies on the number of pets allowed per passenger, so it’s essential to check with your airline in advance.

  • The process for obtaining an IHC should be started as early as possible. Some countries require vaccinations or blood testing months before travel, while others have strict timelines close to your departure date.

    I strongly advise to review destination country requirements before purchasing airplane tickets to ensure that traveling with your pet will be possible in the desired timeframe.

    Starting early helps prevent delays, missed deadlines, and unnecessary stress.

  • Once a pet leaves the United States, even for a short time, they are considered an import when returning to the US, even if they originally lived here.

    Dogs returning from countries considered high risk for rabies require additional documentation specific to rabies vaccination, which must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian. A list of these 112 countries can be found on this CDC webpage.

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the primary government authority for dogs entering the United States, and their website outlines the required import documentation.

    The USDA APHIS may also have separate, additional requirements that differ from CDC regulations and must be met as well.

    I am well-versed in the various requirements of each government agency and together we can make traveling with your furry friend fun and stress-free.

  • Many pets experience fear, anxiety, and stress during travel. Since our pets are part of the family, they deserve to embark on their journey comfortably.

    As part of the IHC package, I offer personalized action plans to help minimize stress to your pet during your trip in addition to prescription calming medication if indicated.

  • The service fees for an international health certificate and CDC rabies certificate are each $500 individually, or $900 in combination. A full detailed pricing list can be found here.

  • The first step is to submit the form on our Contact Page with your destination country and anticipated travel date.

    From there, I will reach out to you to help outline requirements, timelines, and next steps so you can move forward with confidence.

The Official Documentation

Important Websites

Submit Form For Travel Certificate