Clarence, a giant schnauzer, was adopted by Penny Wagner almost eight years ago. It was a difficult time for her family.
Steve, her husband, had just lost their 21 year-old daughter in an accident. Their other child was soon off to college, and Steve returned to work. Penny was left alone in her grief. Clarence was born.
The beloved pet fell ill with advanced renal disease earlier this year. Due to COVID protocols, their veterinarian refused to allow them to remain with him at the clinic until his final days. They decided to bring him home to Albuquerque in New Mexico to be in their favorite laundry room.
Clarence and his wife, Clarence, were greeted by a vet from Pet Loss at Home . The vet took the Wagners time before giving two injections to relax their 90-pound dog. They cuddled Cooper as they cried and also said goodbye to Cooper.
Wagner, who was crying, said that he would always hold a special place for him in his heart. «I believe he was comforted by knowing that he was at home, and that he was close to his loved ones until the end.»
Since the pandemic, private services offering home euthanasia have seen increased demand since they were able to offer this service for pets. Home euthanasia may not be for everyone. It is more expensive and can be disruptive to pets and children.
Although most pet euthanasia still takes place in a hospital setting, some vets now offer home care as an option.
Wagner considered the human touch a gift. Diane Brisson (72), Pinellas Park Florida, also believes the same.
Brisson used Love to say goodbye to Champagne, her 12-year old Yorkie. Her mother never had Champagne, and she was the only dog that she ever enjoyed. Champagne became critically ill from pancreatitis, along with other organ failure. Brisson couldn’t bear to leave Champagne at the vet.
She said, «I couldn’t have asked for anything more tranquil.»
Lap of love allowed her to have a neighbor as support. As Champagne lay on Brisson’s lap, her neighbor snapped photos. It was the only piece she had brought with her from Massachusetts. The vet patiently waited until Brisson was ready for him to give up. After he died, the doctor put Champagne in a small basket with a white satin cushion and a lavender satin blanket to transport him to cremation.
