Euthanasia
The staff at Animal Hospital of the Sierra are not just employees, we are pet owners too! We each have a great deal of love and respect for animals and that is the primary reason we work at this animal hospital. Our passion is to provide the best veterinary care for your pets and to keep them happy and healthy for many years.
Because of this, we understand that considering euthanasia is a difficult and often devastating decision. If at any time you contemplate euthanasia, feel confident that we do provide compassionate service to ease your pet’s pain as well as yours. A private room for this difficult time is available to help make this time as stress-free for the pet and the owner as possible. Owners may be present with their animal at this time if they wish.
Cremation services are also available when euthanasia is elected. There are two types of cremation:
Group Cremation: By choosing this cremation, you will know your pet will be cremated and then buried at the Franklin Pet Cemetery site located in Merced. You will not get your pet’s ashes returned to you.
Individual Cremation: By choosing this cremation, your pet will be cremated by itself and the ashes will be returned to you. Your pet’s ashes are delivered to the animal hospital within a week; you will receive a phone call from our hospital informing you when the wooden urn arrives. When you are ready—and you can take as much time as you need—please come during our office hours to pick up your pet’s ashes.
We understand your pain and want to support you in your decision. Should you have questions about any of our end-of-life services, please don’t hesitate to call us at 559-683-3313.
The Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven lies the Rainbow Bridge. When a beloved pet dies, it goes to the Rainbow Bridge. It makes friends with other animals and frolics over rolling hills and peaceful lush meadows of green. Our pets do not thirst or hunger. The old and sick become young once more; the maimed and the ill become healed and strong. They are as healthy and playful as we remember them in the days gone by.
Though happy and content, they still miss someone very special, someone they had to leave behind. Together, the animals chase and play, but the day comes when a pet will suddenly stop and look into the distance… bright eyes intent, eager body quivering. Suddenly recognizing you, your pet bounds quickly across the green fields and into your embrace. You celebrate in joyous reunion. You will never again separate. Happy tears and kisses are warm and plentiful, your hands caress the face you missed. You look once more into the loving eyes of your pet and know that you never really parted. You realize that though out of sight, your love had been remembered. And now, you cross the Rainbow Bridge together. – Author Unknown