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At-home pet euthanasia in Launceston and the Tamar Valley
When the time comes to say goodbye you don't have to take your pet anywhere. We'll come to you, so they can stay in their own home, with you beside them. Making the decision to say goodbye is one of the hardest things you do for someone you love. You won't have to do it on your own.
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We come to you
For a lot of families, home is where this should happen. No car trip. No waiting room. No strangers. Just the people and the places your pet knows.This page walks you through what an at-home goodbye looks like with us: how to tell when it might be time, what happens on the day, what comes afterwards, and what it costs. Take it slowly. There's no wrong way to read it.
Is this the right time?
It's the question that keeps people awake. Most aren't afraid of leaving it too late. They're afraid of doing it too soon.
There's no perfect moment, but there are things worth watching:
- More hard days than good ones
- The things they always loved just don't interest them anymore
- Pain that medicine no longer settles
- Eating, drinking or moving has become a struggle
If you're not sure, you don't have to make that decision alone. Kristina can sit with you for a quality-of-life assessment, gently, with no pushing either way. Sometimes the answer is "not yet", and she can help provide medication to make them more comfortable.
What happens when we visits
Knowing what to expect can take some of the fear out of the day. Here is how a visit usually goes.
We arrive and let everyone settle in. There is no rush. We follow your lead on where, and when.
We explain each step before it happens. Nothing is a surprise. Ask us anything, there are no wrong questions.
Your pet is given an injection to help them relax. They drift into a deep sleep, usually in their favourite spot, or in your arms.
We place an IV catheter or cannula in their front leg.
When you're ready, and only then, we help them slip away. It is quiet, it is peaceful and they dont feel any pain. Afterwards, you take all the time you need. We're in no hurry, and we'll quietly look after what comes next. We can organise cremation and transport them to Cornerstone if you wish.
Some people want to know exactly what to expect, and some would rather not. If you'd like us to talk you through every detail first, we will. If you'd rather we simply guide you on the day, that's okay too.
Who would be with you
Dr Kristina Fisher
Veterinarian, BVMS
A vet since 2012. Kristina started Adventure Vets so families in Tasmania wouldn't have to drive an unwell pet to a clinic. She has two dogs of her own, Hamish and Mini Moo. A cheeky cat Cleveland and several chooks.
Afterwards
Whatever feels right for your family, we'll help you arrange it, so you're not making phone calls when you least feel like it.
Staying at home. Many families choose to bury their pet at home. It's allowed in much of Tasmania, and we'll talk you through the few simple things to know.
If you'd prefer a cremation, we work with Cornerstone, a local crematorium just outside Launceston. They can return your pet's ashes to you, and offer keepsakes like a paw print, a fur clipping, or an urn you choose yourself.
What it costs
We know cost can feel like an awkward thing to ask about right now, so here it is, simply:
A home visit to say goodbye is $350, for any pet, whatever their size.
We need to add what $350 includes, and also a line taking them to pricing page for travel costs.
If you would want cremation afterwards, we can arrange that through Cornerstone from around $230, with transport of $60. We're happy to talk the options through with you.
From families we helped
Thankyou Kristina and Andrew for your help with my Solomon. Such a difficult and sad time was made so much easier for me by your compassion professionalism and assistance. Would highly recommend this service!
So grateful for the care and advice during a difficult time. Would highly recommend Adventure Vets.
Adventure Vets offer a valued 'at home' service so important when we are 150kms away from the closest clinic. Whilst they don't offer surgical procedures at this stage everything else is no problem. They have welcomed our rescue dogs our puppy and helped us farewell our senior dog with empathy and care. We thank you very much!
Frequently asked questions
How do I know when it's time?
There's rarely a clear signal. If the hard days outnumber the good ones, or pain no longer settles, it may be close. A quality-of-life assessment can help you decide, with no pressure either way.
Will my pet feel any pain?
No. The first thing we give is a sedative, so they're already in a deep, comfortable sleep before anything else happens.
How long does a visit take?
Usually around 30 - 45 minutes but there's no clock. You set the pace, and you can have as much time afterwards as you need.
What might I see in their last moments?
Usually nothing but a peaceful sleep. Now and then there's a last breath or a small movement after they've gone. It's a natural reflex, not distress, and we'll be right beside you to explain it.
Can my children be there? What about our other pets?
Whatever feels right for your family. Children are welcome for as much or as little as you choose, and we'll explain things simply if they'd like us to. Other pets can stay close, and seeing their friend often helps them understand.
How can I prepare beforehand?
Very little is needed. A favourite blanket or bed, a quiet room, and whoever you'd like to be there. We'll handle the rest when we arrive.
Can my children be there? What about our other pets?
Whatever feels right for your family. Children are welcome for as much or as little as you choose, and we'll explain things simply if they'd like us to. Other pets can stay close, and seeing their friend often helps them understand.
How soon can you come?
Often within a day or two, and we'll always try to help sooner if your pet is struggling.
What are my choices afterwards?
You can bury your pet at home, where that's allowed, or we can arrange a cremation through Cornerstone with their ashes returned to you. We'll help you with either.
How much does it cost?
A home euthanasia is $350, for any pet, whatever their size. Cremation through Cornerstone is arranged separately (usually around $230-$450 depending on weight, with transport of $60).
Where we come to you
We're based in Longford and come to you across Launceston and the Tamar Valley, including Kings Meadows, Riverside, Newstead, Perth, Evandale, Hadspen, Legana and George Town. We also travel through Lake Leak and the Fingal Valley to the East Coast of Tasmania on a Wednesday. If you're not sure whether you're in reach, just ask.
When you're ready
Whenever you're ready, or even if you're just not sure yet, we're here.
Call Kristina and Andrew and we'll talk it through, gently, and find a time that feels right for you and your pet.
Call Kristina and Andrew and we'll talk it through, gently, and find a time that feels right for you and your pet.
0477 179 070
(Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm)
info@adventurevets.com.au
Thanks for getting in touch.
We will get back to you soon.
We will get back to you soon.
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