Frequently Asked Questions

  • One of the hardest questions any pet owner will ever ask is, “How do I know when it is time?”

    Often times, there is not a single moment that makes the decision clear. More often, it is gradual change.

    While every pet is unique, some signs that quality of life may be declining include:

    • Persistent pain that cannot be adequately controlled

    • Difficulty standing, walking or getting outside to use the bathroom

    • Loss of interest in eating or drinking

    • Trouble breathing or frequent episodes of distress

    • If your pet has an incurable disease such as cancer

    • Loss of interest in things that used to excite them

    • When bad days outweigh the good days

  • Dr. Bouchard will arrive to your home and greet everyone and your pet. She will explain the euthanasia process from start to finish and answer any questions your family may have. She will have you fill out a euthanasia consent form, go over after body care options and collect payment at that time.

    Next, Dr. Bouchard will give your pet an injection to sedate them. This is usually a strong sedative that will make your pet relaxed in order for us to proceed with the euthanasia and allows your pet to be stress free and comfortable for the process. This takes about 5-15 minutes for your pet to be fully sedated and relaxed. During this time, you can hold your pet, talk to them, comfort them and let them know you are there for them through the whole process.

    Once your pet is deeply sedated, Dr Bouchard will place an IV catheter. This is so we have access to their vein in order to give the euthanasia solution. Once the IV catheter is in place (usually in your pet’s front leg or back leg), then a white solution (Propofol) is administered IV through the catheter. This will put your pet into a deeper level of sleep and shortly after this injection, the euthanasia solution is given the same way. Pretty shortly after the euthanasia solution is given, their heart will stop and they will pass peacefully.

    At this time, Dr Bouchard will listen to your pet’s heart and feel their pulse to confirm your pet has passed. If your pet is being taken for cremation, Dr Bouchard will allow as much time as you would like before taking your pets remains for cremation.

    A complimentary ink paw and/or nose print can be taken at this time if desired. We can also make a small vial of hair as a memorial as well if desired.

    If you elected for home burial, Dr Bouchard will leave your home at this time to allow your family to proceed with the home burial.

    Ashes can be picked up from the cremation company or delivered for an additional fee about two weeks later. All private cremation services come with a clay paw print that will be delivered with your pet’s ashes.

  • Communal cremation

    Communal cremation is where your pet’s remains will be cremated and the ashes are then donated to Pet Reefs where they are turned into a pet memorial reef in Sarasota, Florida. These pet reef memorials help support coral reefs, restore ocean ecosystems, and give your pet a resting place that truly honors their spirit. You can still get memorial products such as, a clay paw print, upon request.

    Private cremation

    Your pets remains are cremated and you will select an urn for your pet’s ashes to be returned to you. All private cremation options include a clay paw print. There are 5 urn options provided to select from, however, if you would like to upgrade or browse additional urns, you may do so through the cremation company. A QR code and link is provided after the appointment in which you will have 48 hours to make your selection or purchase additional memorial products offered by Agape cremation services. Urns are engraved with your pet’s name.

  • Ashes are typically returned in 1-2 weeks. If purchasing additional memorial products through Agape cremation services, delivery times may take slightly longer.

  • All euthanasia services will come with a complimentary ink paw print and/or nose print. A vial of hair may be provided complimentary as well upon request. All private cremations come with a clay paw print made by the cremation company and are delivered when your pet’s ashes are returned. Additional memorial products are provided through Agape pet cremation services if desired.

  • No, your pet will not feel pain during the euthanasia. Dr Bouchard will sedate your pet first and ensure they are comfortable prior to the euthanasia. Occasionally, the injection to sedate the pet can sting for a moment, but most pets tolerate the injection just fine. We will ensure it is as low stress and comfortable as possible for your fur baby.

  • NC State Veterinary Hospital

    1060 William Moore Dr Raleigh, NC 27607

    (919)-513-6500

    Blue Pearl Cary

    5405-100 Tyron Rd Cary, NC 27518

    (919)-223-4911

    Blue Pearl Raleigh

    4640 Paragon Park Rd Raleigh, NC 27616

    (919)-861-0109

    Blue Pearl Durham

    7015 NC-751 Durham, NC 27707

    (919)-600-6600