We at Butler Veterinary Associates wish to extend our deepest condolences to those experiencing or anticipating the loss of a beloved pet. We understand that this is a very tough time for the whole family. Please know that we are here for you should you need assistance working through the grieving process.
When an owner and veterinarian decide that a pet is suffering or unlikely to make a recovery, euthanasia offers a way to end a pet’s pain. The decision is difficult for both the owner and the veterinarian, but we should recognize that sometimes this is the kindest thing we can do in the final stage of a pet’s life.
Our euthanasia’s are performed in a beautiful room, which offers a home-like setting. You are welcome to stay in this room as long as you need. You are certainly welcome to stay with your pet during the euthanasia. The decision to stay or not stay with a pet is a very personal one. Some owners feel they could comfort their pet in its final moments. Others feel their emotional upset would only upset their pet. If you choose not to stay with your pet, you can be assured a caring Technician will be comforting your pet in the final moments. Those who choose not to stay may wish to view the pet’s body after the procedure is complete.
Euthanasia is emotional for veterinarians as well. Sometimes, the veterinarian has known the pet for a long time or has tried very hard to make the animal well again. With this procedure we do offer (at no additional charge) an impression of your pet’s paw print that we make in clay. We bake it, paint it, and then mail it to you. You usually get the paw print in the mail two weeks after the procedure is done.
Cremation Services (We offer these services on site)
It is very common for pet owners to have their deceased pets cremated, and you need to decide if you wish to keep your pet’s ashes as a remembrance. If so, we will perform an individual (or private) cremation, meaning that your pet is cremated alone. This ensures that the remains returned to you are purely those of your pet. The individual cremation comes with a black plastic urn and we also offer an option to purchase an oak urn. The oak urn has a place for a picture to be placed in the front. You may bring us the picture and we will install it for you.
We also offer a communal cremation where your pet is cremated with other pets. No ashes are returned.
For more information on Pet loss, Grief and Memorials please visit
