“And, beloved master, should the great Master
see fit to deprive me of my health or sight,
do not turn me away from you.  Rather,
hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands
grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest -
and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew,
my fate was ever safest in
your hands.”

From “A Dog’s Prayer”
by Beth Norman Harris

Saying goodbye to a pet that has been your loving companion for years can be the most difficult situation a person will ever confront. Sometimes, however, a pet’s condition will deteriorate past the point where veterinary medicine can either treat it or provide them with a reasonable quality of life. Euthanasia is the last resort, but if necessary, it is a humane way for your pet to pass.

At Commonwealth Veterinary Hospital, we take the uncommon measure of anesthetizing our patients before injecting them with the final drug. This guarantees that the process will be smooth, quiet, peaceful and painless. It also allows you, the human companion, more options in this difficult moment. You can remain with your pet the entire time or you can be present only until the anesthesia has taken hold and allow the veterinarian to complete the procedure. When it is over, our staff will be there to help you grieve and to discuss the variety of options for cremation or internment.