Hospice & Pallative Care
These are services provided to pets that have terminal diagnoses, such as cancer, kidney disease, etc. This can look like pain management or help with appetite and hydration. Dr. Marcy’s goal for these pets is to keep them comfortable while they are in their “sunset days.” Each pet will have a different need, so Dr. Marcy will start with an initial consultation to determine what’s best for your pet during this transitional time.
In-Home Euthanasia
Motor City Vet Care provides families and their pets with veterinary end-of-life care in the Detroit area. Our services include in-home euthanasia and veterinary hospice, which addresses care and pain management from the comfort of your home with Dr. Marcy, an experienced, compassionate veterinarian.
Dr. Marcy is honored to be a part of, arguably, one of the most difficult decisions you may have to make for your pet. All decisions around hospice and end-of-life care for your pet can be very emotional. Having these hard conversations and making difficult decisions in the privacy of your own home is a beautiful option that Motor City Vet Care is privileged to provide.
Dr. Marcy will take the time to talk you through this difficult time and support whatever decision you deem best for you and your beloved pet. If you are interested in this service, please reach out and you will be provided information regarding planning and what to expect.
Once we receive your request, we will contact you to chat about your pet and confirm or adjust the time based on what else is on the schedule that day. Once you’ve confirmed your appointment, you will receive information via email on how to prepare for our visit. You will also receive an invoice that you can pay securely online if you’d like to prior to the visit.
How to Make Your Pet Comfortable In The Home
You will want to pick a location that is comfortable for you and your pet. Some smaller pets who are used to being held will be comfortable in your lap or on your furniture. You should have a waterproof layer (like a “pee pad” or simply a plastic layer like a garbage bag) between your pet’s bed and the underlying surface.
It is also suggested that you have some yummy treats, bacon, hot dogs, or whatever treats your pet absolutely loves. If they are still eating, we will have you feed them a little snack to distract them from the sedation injection we give at the beginning of the appointment.
Paperwork and Payment
It’s important that you review the consent form sent to your email before your appointment. If you are able to sign it beforehand, that would also be much appreciated. If you’re not able, don’t worry. Dr. Marcy will be bringing a copy with her when she comes.
When Dr. Marcy arrives at your home, she strictly adheres to the COVID-19 protocols in place from MHHDS, so everyone present must be wearing a mask. This is not negotiable.
Next, Dr. Marcy will confirm your pet’s info and aftercare choices. Payment will be collected at this time.
An Overview of the Procedure
Dr. Marcy will then give your pet small injection for relaxation. This will take your pet into a deep and comfortable sleep within 5-15 minutes. Most pets are deeply after asleep after that first ten minutes, but if they’re not, we will give them more time or more medicine to get sleepier.
Once your pet is settled and comfortable, Dr. Marcy will give the second injection that is simply an overdose of anesthesia. The euthanasia injection is not at all painful and most pets will pass within a moment or two after receiving this second injection. While most pets respond in similar ways to the medicines we use, death can sometimes be unpredictable and may not always come in exactly the same way for every patient.
Some pets may require additional time or medicine to help them transition smoothly. Others may require us to move faster if they are showing any signs of discomfort.
Dr. Marcy will talk you through every moment of the experience as it is happening. Our ultimate goal is to facilitate a peaceful and unforced transition for our patients. Dr. Marcy will then step out again to give you the privacy and as much time you need. Dr. Marcy will then work with you to accommodate the after care that you have chosen.
Pet After Care
Faithful Companion is a phenomenal family-owned crematorium who handles the after care after our pet’s have crossed the “rainbow bridge.” Please follow this link for more information about how they can assist with your family finding closure during such a difficult time.
Fees
Consultations for Hospice and Pallative Care Services may be performed virtually or in-person.
- Virtual consultation – $50
- In-person consultation – $100
In-home Euthanasia
- Euthanasia and Travel Fee – $300
- After Care: Communal Cremation
- Dogs under 25lbs – $50
- Dogs 25 – 75lbs – $75
- Dogs over 75lbs – $100
- After Care: Private Cremation – $325 (Includes crematorium picking up loved one from your home after euthanasia)
Many different upgrades and momentos can be discussed with family which will vary the price.