End of Life Care

Please remember that you are not alone in this. We are available for consultation appointments to discuss your pet’s quality of life and help you make a plan. When the time comes, we can help your pet pass gently and peacefully at home.

Cat and Dog

Planning for Your Appointment:

We understand how difficult it can be to make this appointment. Dr. Merry will help make your pet’s final moments as comfortable and peaceful as possible. Saying goodbye at home allows your pet to remain in familiar surroundings with the people who love them.

If your pet is able, please give them an opportunity to go to the bathroom shortly before we arrive. This may be a quick trip outside for dogs or access to a freshly cleaned litter box for cats.

Other pets are welcome to be present if they can remain calm. If they are in another room for the euthanasia, we recommend giving them a chance to see and smell their housemate afterward. This may help them understand the loss and reduce searching behavior, but it is okay if you prefer not to include them.

If possible, please reserve a parking space near the door and choose a location for the appointment that limits stairs. This helps us move your pet gently and safely if we are providing transportation for cremation.

During Your Appointment:

When Dr. Merry arrives, she will go over what to expect and answer any questions before beginning. If your pet is interested, favorite treats or attention can help distract them during the initial sedation injection. Your pet will gradually become deeply sedated, giving you a few minutes together. Once the sedation has taken full effect, the euthanasia medication is administered.

After your pet has passed, Dr. Merry will create a personalized clay paw print stamped with your pet’s name. You will also receive a keepsake box containing fur clippings.

If cremation has been arranged, Dr. Merry brings a basket or stretcher to move your pet to her vehicle. For pets over 50 pounds, Dr. Merry would appreciate a hand with the stretcher. If that will not be possible, please let us know in advance so an assistant can be available.

Euthanasia and Cremation Pricing:

How much does euthanasia cost?

The total cost includes:

  • One house-call travel fee of $48 for our core service area or $64 for our extended service area (View Map link)
  • A $78 veterinary appointment for each pet receiving care during the visit
  • The euthanasia service for each pet, priced by weight:
    • 25 lbs or less: $155
    • Over 25 to 50 lbs: $175
    • Over 50 to 70 lbs: $195
    • Over 70 to 90 lbs: $215
  • Assistant fee: $25 is added when we transport a pet over 70 lbs for cremation. For pets weighing less, this fee applies only if you ask in advance for additional help at the appointment.

For pets over 90 lbs, please contact us before scheduling so we can discuss the appointment and available aftercare options. Text (509) 595-1808 or email Shannon@MerryTravelingTails.com.

Both cremation options include transportation.

  • Private Cremation — Your pet’s ashes are returned in an urn of your choice. (View Available Urns) All urn choices are included in the price, and wooden boxes include a name plaque. The process usually takes about one week. We will contact you when the urn has been returned to us and provide local pickup instructions.
  • Scatter Service — Your pet’s ashes are respectfully scattered at Family Pet Memorial Gardens in Colbert, Washington rather than returned to you. The gardens are a peaceful resting place and are open to visitors during daylight hours year-round. (View Map — 20015 N. Austin Rd, Colbert WA)
  • Home Burial — A burial site should be prepared in advance. Euthanasia medication is dangerous if ingested by wildlife or other animals. Please confirm burial is permitted on the property and plan to cover your pet with at least 3 feet of soil. Heavy stones or pavers placed over the grave provide additional protection.

Private Cremation — Urn Returned

  • 25 lbs or less: $241
  • Over 25 to 50 lbs: $284
  • Over 50 to 70 lbs: $316
  • Over 70 to 90 lbs: $348

Scatter Service — Family Pet Memorial Gardens

  • 25 lbs or less: $98
  • Over 25 to 50 lbs: $132
  • Over 50 to 70 lbs: $180
  • Over 70 to 90 lbs: $212

For pets over 90 lbs, please contact us before scheduling so we can discuss the appointment and available aftercare options. Text (509) 595-1808 or email Shannon@MerryTravelingTails.com.

We're here when you're ready.