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Why Paws at Rest...

Our Vet

Dr Kate is a seasoned Veterinarian with further experience in palliative ​care & in-home euthanasia. She grew up in NSW on a cattle property & ​can't remember many adventures that didn't include at least one fury ​best mate by her side. Becoming a Vet was her natural path, having ​always been drawn to the excitement, diversity & of course furry faces ​& wet noses.

Upon graduating from the University of QLD in 2012, Dr Kate worked in ​mixed practice for three years, before finding her passion in small ​animal practice with a special interest in a whole health approach to pet ​wellbeing, including mental enrichment, training & behaviour, ​preventative care, chronic pain management & nutrition. Dr Kate has ​travelled & worked in the UK for two years in general practice & ​emergency, before returning home to Australia & settling on the ​Sunshine Coast with her Kelpie & Border collie.

Her career has flourished in her passion for palliative care - looking ​after our golden oldies & ensuring their later years are spent, pain free & ​with good quality of life.

Euthanasia of our beloved pets is an inevitable decision & Dr Kate is ​grateful we are able to offer this peacefully when they need it most. ​This precious moment is always full of nothing but love for these ​beautiful animals, we have the privilege to share our lives with.

When there is no other option - how can we do this really well, for ​everyone involved.

Dr Kate draws from her own personally experience of a less than ideal ​goodbye, for her own beautiful dog, several years ago.

I endeavour this moment to be peaceful for everyone & just as you ​want to remember it.

To address the needs, mentally & physically for our pets in their final ​days is truly fulfilling. It is humbling to provide our beloved pets with a ​kind, calm & peaceful goodbye, it is the least we can do, for everything ​they do for us.

The Process...

Contact our team

Once your appointment is confirmed

When the Vet arrives

Farewell my friend

After-Care...

Your choice of the following options

Home burial

• Your pet will stay with you for burial, or other personally arranged after-care
• Regulated council guidelines apply

Group Cremation

• No ashes returned
• Our vet will take your pet with them & organise this for you
• An additional fee of $90 applies

Individual Cremation with

• Your pet's ashes will be returned to you
• Our vet will take your pet with them & meet the cremation company, or direct ​collection from your home, where possible.
• Pets In Peace Booking Form
• Little Treasures Pet Cremations (Local & Family Owned)

Private Individual Cremation of your choice

• Your pet's ashes will be returned to you
• Your vet will leave your pet in your care for you to organise this with a ​cremation company of your choice

Consider what your pet may like to keep with them - a favourite toy, bed, or ​blanket.

Your pet will be treated with love & kindest every step of your preferred

after-care.

Contact Us...

Service Area

Sunshine Coast & Hinterland

You can call to request an appointment outside our service area.

These appointments may incur an additional travel fee.

Have a pet emergency?

24/7 EMERGENCY VET CLINICS

Animal Emergency Service (AES)

(07) 5445 1333

431 Tanawha Tourist Drive

Tanawha QLD

North Coast Veterinary Emergency

(07) 5453 7555

5/30 Chancellor Park Blvd

Sippy Downs QLD

A difficult decision...

How do you know it's time?

You may find yourself here, questioning your beloved pet’s quality of life or considering the challenging decision to humanely euthanise. Unfortunately, death is an inevitable part of pet ownership.

Pets may be euthanised when faced with old age, serious medical conditions such as chronic arthritis, serious heart, liver, or lung disease, or the development of certain cancers. Owners may also consider euthanasia if their pets have lost their sight & hearing or are not leading a happy life. Signs that a pet may be experiencing discomfort include a reduction in activity & things they usually enjoy, lack of responsiveness to outside stimuli, difficulty walking, frequent nausea, loss of appetite, pain & loss of bowel & bladder control.

Although a few pets may pass away peacefully at home, this is relatively uncommon. Unfortunately, many pets that are not euthanised can endure significant suffering & pain during their final moments. To provide them with a dignified & compassionate passing, sparing them from the potential agony associated with natural deaths, is much preferred. Determining the right time to make this decision can be challenging, as there is no one-size-fits-all formula. Each pet & situation is unique, requiring individual consideration.

Attempting treatment under veterinary care for a short period may be beneficial. Such a process will allow time to think & observe the pet's response to therapy. Many pet owners find comfort in allowing the veterinarian to conduct X-rays & pathology tests to diagnose the pet's condition & determine the possible outcomes, to help make this difficult decision.

Reflect on whether you might be delaying euthanasia for your own emotional reasons rather than considering what is truly best for your pet. This can be a challenging question to ask oneself, but it is important to prioritise your pet's well-being above our own attachment & grief.

As veterinarians, we have numerous conversations with pet families both before & after the euthanasia process. In almost all cases, families do not express regret about making the decision too early. Unfortunately, the opposite is often true.

Financial considerations may also play a role in the decision to euthanise a pet. The cost of treating disease & injury can be expensive & while owners may be very attached to their pets, they may not be able to afford the necessary treatment. At times we weigh up a treatment recovery process for a pet & consider their well-being during this time with their prognosis. Owners should always ask their veterinarian about the costs involved & expected outcomes, as it is an important consideration to make.

Our pets rely on us for everything, including their health & happiness. It's important for us to take care of them & be their advocates. Sometimes, we may mistake signs of illness as just a normal part of getting older, but it's crucial that we pay attention to their needs. We should always prioritise their well-being & make decisions that are best for them. This guide will help you understand how to care for aging pets with chronic or terminal illnesses & how to provide effective end-of-life assessment & care.

To assess your pet's quality of life, we have provided a list of important things to consider. As their illness progresses or their abilities decline, you may need to do the evaluation again. Some people find it helpful to do the assessment daily & keep a record of the results. Remember that quality of life is subjective, but you know your pet the best. Trust your instincts when filling out the chart. This process can give you peace of mind that your pet is still enjoying life, or it can help you realize if they're suffering more than you thought. Being aware & observant is the best way to help your pet.

As pets grow older, their quality of life can sometimes decline & they may lose their enthusiasm for life. They appear disinterested in their surroundings & no longer seem happy. It's important to note that this is distinct from simply being old & tired, as it signifies a permanent change in their attitude. Attentive owners often notice this shift, which can indicate that their pet is no longer enjoying life. If you're unsure, it can be helpful to discuss this with your family, individuals familiar with your pet, or your veterinarian.

Below is our Quality of Life Calculator

There are a few important factors to consider as you are answering these questions.

The Big Picture

We all want our pets to be happy & live a long life. To understand their happiness, it's helpful to think about what made them happiest when they were young. Did they enjoy playing with balls in the backyard, going for long walks, sporting, training, having a good meal, or simply being around people? Dogs that were active when they were young will experience a decline in happiness & mobility faster than those who preferred a more relaxed lifestyle. For example, working-dog breeds are often more focused on being active compared to companion breeds. When their mobility becomes difficult, it affects their ability to do the activities they loved.

If your pet enjoyed following their nose, but weren't overly active, they may not be affected as much but declining mobility, as long as they have plenty of opportunities to explore with their sense of smell at the park or in the backyard. Considering what your pet loved doing the most when they were young & whether they can still do it & enjoy it will help you evaluate how much they have to look forward to in life.

Pain

Assessing your pet's pain level can be challenging. Some dogs show minimal signs of pain unless it becomes severe, while others are more sensitive & express discomfort even with slight pain. Pain can manifest in subtle ways, so it's important to be observant. You might notice your pet trembling in their legs when they try to get up or being hesitant to move unless necessary. They may struggle to find a comfortable position & exhibit restlessness, especially at night. Obvious signs of pain can include panting, yawning, licking & whimpering, but a lot of signs are more subtle & can go unnoticed. If you suspect your pet is in pain, it's best to consult your veterinarian to determine if they are indeed in pain, identify the cause & explore potential pain relief options.

If the pain cannot be adequately controlled with medication, it will negatively affect your pet's quality of life. If you observe significant improvement with medication, it's crucial to continue monitoring your pet's pain levels in case their condition deteriorates. Remember, there are various pain relief medications available for pets & it may require trying different combinations to find the right treatment plan. Your veterinarian can assist you with this, so it's important to communicate if the current approach is not working well.

Additionally, it's important to consider whether the pain your pet is experiencing is likely to be short-term (such as a strained muscle that will heal with time & pain relief) or if it will progressively worsen over time (such as hip osteoarthritis). If it's a condition that will worsen, ensuring effective pain control becomes even more crucial as your pet will experience an overall decline in their well-being.

Appetite

Your pet's behaviour during mealtime can provide clues about their well-being. If they used to eagerly eat but now show disinterest in their food, it could be a sign that they are not feeling well. They may be experiencing conditions like nausea, headaches, pain, or dental issues, which they cannot communicate to us. Addressing these underlying issues is important to restore their appetite.

Conversely, if your pet was previously a picky eater but now seems constantly hungry (especially if they struggle to maintain weight), there might be an underlying medical cause for this change. In both situations, it is advisable to have your pet assessed by a veterinarian. They can conduct a physical examination & may recommend tests such as blood tests, ultrasounds, or stool analysis to determine the cause of the appetite change. It could be a correctable issue or a sign that your pet's quality of life is being affected by underlying health problems.

Hygiene

Maintaining good hygiene is important for your pet's health & mental well-being. Pets can feel stressed & anxious if they have accidents in inappropriate places. If your pet is experiencing urinary or faecal incontinence, there may be an underlying medical issue, so it's best to consult your veterinarian to determine the cause. In many cases, a simple medication can help your pet regain control.

If your pet is unable to go outside to relieve themselves or cannot move after soiling, they are at risk of urine & faecal scalding, infections, fly infestations & it can strain your trust bond with them. It also significantly affects their quality of life if they cannot properly take care of their toileting needs.

Palliative Care Needs

It's important to assess if you can realistically meet your pet's current & future needs. Your availability & ability to provide assistance are crucial factors to consider. If you are constantly at home, you can support your pet with tasks like mobility. However, working full-time or traveling frequently may leave them without help during emergencies or difficulties, such as being unable to get up after a fall. If your pet has a degenerative condition & you plan a long trip, it can be challenging for a caretaker to monitor their quality of life & make euthanasia decisions. If you feel you can't adequately meet their increasing needs, it may be kinder to consider euthanasia while they still have a reasonable quality of life, sparing them potential accidents or becoming a burden to caretakers in your absence.

Putting Your Pet's Needs First

When making this decision, it's important to ask yourself: Who is it really for? Are you making the decision for your pet's well-being or for your own attachment & fear of letting go? While it's natural to feel a deep sense of loss once they pass, we must set aside our personal emotions & prioritise our pet's needs & quality of life.

As a veterinarian, I often hear owners questioning whether they prolonged their pet's life out of their own fear of saying goodbye. When the time is right, remind yourself that this decision is ultimately for your pet's benefit. Take comfort in knowing that as a responsible pet owner, you are providing them with the gift of a pain-free & dignified end to their life.

Calculate Your Pet's Quality of Life

For each category, choose which statement best describes your pet's current health:

Points

1 point - Your pet seems to be in a pain-free state, displaying uninhibited movement, enthusiasm for exercise & enjoying restful sleep.

2 points - Your pet received a recent evaluation from a veterinarian who prescribed suitable pain relief for their condition. The prescribed medication is effectively managing their discomfort.

3 points - Your pet is displaying clear signs of pain, including vocalisation, distress, restlessness, or reluctance to move. Despite the prescription of pain medication, it is not effectively alleviating their discomfort or the side effects are severe. We have explored alternative pain management techniques such as acupuncture, but they have been unsuccessful in providing relief.

1 point - Your pet maintains a regular eating pattern & demonstrates a healthy appetite.

2 points - Your pet's appetite has noticeably decreased, requiring additional encouragement to eat or showing a preference for specific foods. They may exhibit slower eating habits compared to their usual pace.

3 points - Your pet's appetite is sporadic or entirely absent. Alternatively, they may show eagerness to eat, but subsequently experience vomiting, nausea, or diarrhoea.

1 point - Your pet exudes happiness & eagerly engages with you. They readily greet you & eagerly seek attention & affection.

2 points - Your pet may exhibit signs of irritability & grumpiness, deviating from their usual behaviour. While they remain interested in daily family activities, they may also desire additional alone time for themselves.

3 points - Your pet has developed a tendency to hide & actively avoid interaction. They consistently exhibit signs of depression & lack enthusiasm for activities they once enjoyed.

1 point - Your pet maintains satisfactory energy levels, engaging in regular exercise or play as a typical part of their daily routine.

2 points - Your pet is showing signs of gradually slowing down, but their prescribed medications are effectively managing their condition. They can still engage in approximately half the amount of activity they were capable of in their youth & they continue to manage well with this reduced level of activity.

3 points - Your pet's mobility has significantly declined. They now require assistance to stand & move around the house & their capacity for exercise is greatly limited. You may have observed that they are unable to navigate stairs or get into the car unassisted.

1 point - Your pet's water consumption is within the normal range, without any changes.

2 points - Your pet's water intake deviates from the normal range to some extent. In some cases, they may exhibit increased drinking, while in others, they may not consume an adequate amount of water.

3 points - Your pet is experiencing inadequate hydration, necessitating your intervention to help them throughout the day. Methods such as syringing fluids or administering fluids under the skin may be necessary. Vomiting or diarrhoea could be contributing factors to their dehydration.

1 point - Your pet's body weight is within the ideal range & they are effectively maintaining their overall body condition.

2 points - Your pet is currently at an unhealthy weight, but you are actively monitoring their body shape & any changes are occurring gradually.

3 points - Weight fluctuations are occurring without any control & adjusting their food intake does not appear to have an impact. Noticeable rapid changes in their body shape, such as muscle wasting resulting in narrowed hips or abdominal bloating, may have become apparent.

1 point - Your pet maintains regular toileting patterns & displays normal grooming behaviours.

2 points - You have observed that your pet's toileting habits are not entirely normal. They may experience difficulty in eliminating, urinate more frequently than usual, or pass stools that appear abnormal. Additionally, you might notice a decline in their personal hygiene, necessitating some assistance to maintain cleanliness.

3 points - Your pet is experiencing challenges in toileting normally. They may be dealing with urinary or faecal incontinence, struggling to rise from soiled bedding, displaying decreased grooming behaviour & potentially developing pressure sores on certain parts of their body. The need for hygiene care has significantly escalated, surpassing your current capacity to provide care adequately.

1 point - Your pet's sleep patterns are normal.

2 points - Your pet generally maintains a normal sleep pattern; however, they have recently been sleeping for longer durations compared to before. Occasionally, they may exhibit signs of disorientation or confusion regarding their surroundings & the people present.

3 points - Your pet demonstrates restlessness, anxiety & discomfort when attempting to rest. They may vocalise their distress through whimpering or crying, particularly at night, necessitating the use of medication to aid in sleep. Furthermore, they may experience disorientation & prove challenging to soothe.

Score <10: Your pet's quality of life is likely at an acceptable level. However, it's important to continue monitoring for any changes or potential deterioration in their condition.

Score 10-20: There are certain areas of concern & consulting with your veterinarian can provide insights & recommendations to enhance your pet's quality of life.

Score 20-25: Your pet is exhibiting signs of suffering & their quality of life is notably poor. It is crucial to have a discussion with your vet promptly to address these results.

Pain

Appetite

Behaviour

Mobility

Hydration

Weight

Toileting

Rest

Total

If you are still unsure, please consult your regular veterinarian for further guidance.

They are trained to assess a pet's quality of life through questions about their home environment & an examination.

It's crucial to be confident in your decision before considering euthanasia & a professional's insight can help you feel ​assured that you're making the right choice to prevent your pet from suffering.

Ultimately, as your pet's advocate, it's a personal decision for you to determine the right time for euthanasia.

It can be incredibly challenging, but it's important to prioritise your pet's comfort over personal desires.

We all want our pets to live their best & happiest lives & we must prioritise their well-being.

The In-Home Difference

A home euthanasia for your pet provides a tranquil & serene experience. Our utmost priority is to ensure that the farewell process is as seamless & comforting as possible. To achieve this, we provide a soothing sedation before the euthanasia.

During the home euthanasia, we understand the significance of allowing you & your loved ones ample time to say goodbye to your pet at each stage of the process. Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where you can express your emotions & spend quality time together in the familiar comforts of your home.

Opting for a home euthanasia spares both you & your pet the additional stress of traveling to a veterinary clinic, particularly if your pet has had negative experiences in such environments in the past.

By choosing this option, you can offer your beloved companion a farewell in the place they know & love best, surrounded by their cherished home environment.

Bucket List

Testimonials

Seniors & Pet Loss

Losing a pet can be an incredibly traumatic experience for retired seniors. For many older adults living alone, their pet is their constant companion, bringing purpose & joy to their lives.

In coping with this loss, it's essential to find new ways to fill the time & emotional void left by your pet. Consider exploring new hobbies or activities that can help occupy your time & provide a sense of fulfilment. You may also find solace in assisting others with their pet care needs, such as volunteering at an animal shelter or offering to pet-sit for friends & neighbours.

Staying socially connected is crucial during this difficult time. Make an effort to spend time with friends & loved ones, aiming for at least one meaningful interaction each day. Regular face-to-face contact can help combat feelings of loneliness & ward off depression.

Maintaining an active lifestyle is equally important. If you were accustomed to exercising while taking care of your pet, it's vital to continue this routine or explore alternative exercise programs that you can enjoy. Physical activity not only contributes to your overall well-being but can also serve as a positive outlet for your emotions.

While the decision to get another pet should be made carefully & when the time feels right, it may be worth considering in the future. A new companion can bring joy & companionship back into your life when you are emotionally ready. There are many senior pets needing homes, potentially one who has lost their senior human companion & looking for another.

Remember to be patient with yourself as you navigate the grieving process. Seek support from friends, family, or even grief counselling if needed. It's important to honour the bond you shared with your pet while also finding ways to embrace new experiences & connections in your life.

Children & Pet Loss

Losing a pet can be a significant moment for many children, as it may be their first encounter with death. However, this unfortunate experience also presents an opportunity to educate them about dealing with grief & the inherent pain that accompanies loving another living being.

In such situations, it is not uncommon for children to feel anger & place blame on others, including you, for the pet's demise. Additionally, some children may experience fear, worrying that their other pets or even you might also pass away & leave them behind. It is crucial to engage in open discussions about these emotions & support them throughout their grieving process.

While some adults choose to shield their children from the sadness associated with losing a pet by avoiding discussions & suppressing their own emotions, this approach can ultimately lead to greater confusion, fear & feelings of betrayal once the truth is eventually revealed.

Tips for Coping with Grief

Grief is a complex & enduring process that varies in duration for each individual. It may take weeks, months, or even years to navigate through the emotions associated with loss. However, there will come a time when you start to feel better & you will rediscover joy in your life.

Here are some helpful suggestions for dealing with grief:

Seek Support: Surround yourself with loved ones who understand the unique bond you had with your pet. Their presence & empathy can provide comfort during this difficult time.

Validate Your Feelings: Remember that grief is a personal experience & there is no right or wrong way to feel. Allow yourself to grieve without judgment or embarrassment. It's okay to experience a range of emotions as you navigate through the healing process.

Share Stories: Reach out to others who have also experienced pet loss. Sharing stories & memories of your beloved companion can be therapeutic. If you don't know anyone personally, consider joining online message boards or pet loss support groups to connect with people who can relate to your experience.

Embrace the Healing Process: Avoid suppressing your feelings & allow yourself to confront & process your grief. By actively dealing with your emotions, you give yourself the opportunity to heal & find closure.

Hold a Meaningful Memorial: Consider organising a memorial or funeral service to honour & bid farewell to your pet. This ritual can provide a special way to say goodbye & allow you & your family to openly express your emotions.

Self-Care: Losing a pet can be emotionally draining, so it's crucial to prioritise self-care. Make sure you're taking care of your physical & emotional well-being. Engage in activities that bring you comfort, practice self-compassion & seek solace in hobbies or pursuits that bring you joy. If your pet was your exercise buddy, ensure you are still keeping up this physical activity to release happy hormones & & a source of emotional outlet.

Reach out to Professional Help if Needed: If you find that your grief becomes overwhelming or persists for an extended period, don't hesitate to reach out to a grief counsellor or therapist. They can provide valuable guidance & support tailored to your specific needs.

Remember, everyone's grief journey is unique & it's important to be patient & kind to yourself as you navigate through this challenging time.

Support Services Available

24/7 Pet Loss Support Line – 1300 431 450

Lifeline – 13 11 14

Griefline – 1300 845 745

Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636

Terms of Service

Booking Availability

The availability of home euthanasia veterinarians for bookings may change. We strive to maintain up-to-date & accurate information on individual veterinarians' availability to avoid scheduling appointments that cannot be serviced by the assigned veterinarian. In the event that unforeseen circumstances render the booked veterinarian unavailable for a specific appointment, we will promptly contact the client using the provided phone number during the booking process. We will offer an alternative provider or an alternative appointment time. If the proposed alternatives are unacceptable to the client, a full refund will be issued.

Cancellations/Changes & Refund Policy

Clients may cancel or make changes to their appointments up until 90 minutes prior to the scheduled time by using the link provided in the booking confirmation email. If a cancellation is made within this timeframe, a full refund will be issued, excluding the non-refundable transaction fees incurred through our payment gateway.

For cancellations made within 90 minutes of the appointment time, an additional $150 administration fee will be retained to compensate the veterinarian for their time, travel & potential loss of another booking. The remaining amount of the booking charge will be refunded. In the unfortunate event of a pet passing away of natural causes, regardless of the proximity to the original appointment time, a full refund (excluding transaction fees) will be issued.

Disputes

Disputes related to after-care & memorial items will be handled by our team on behalf of our clients in collaboration with our crematorium partners. If a client decides to cancel a cremation service after payment, please note that the same policy will apply regarding our non-refundable transaction costs.

Terms, Conditions & Consent when Booking our Services

1. Acceptance of Terms: By accessing or using our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, please refrain from using our services.
2. Availability & Changes: We strive to provide uninterrupted access to our services, unless otherwise informed. However, we do not guarantee continuous availability, as unforeseen circumstances may arise. We reserve the right to modify, suspend, or terminate any part of our services at any time without prior notice.
3. Booking & Cancellation: Appointments for our services may be booked subject to availability. Cancellations & changes to appointments can be made up to a specified timeframe before the scheduled time. Please refer to our Cancellations/Changes & Refund Policy for more details.
4. Service Providers: We make efforts to ensure accurate & up-to-date information regarding the availability of our service providers. In the event that a booked service provider becomes unavailable, we will offer alternatives or issue a refund, depending on the circumstances.
5. Payments & Refunds: All payments for our services are subject to the specified charges & any applicable transaction fees. Refunds, if applicable, will be issued according to our Refund Policy.
6. Disputes: Any disputes arising from our services will be handled in accordance with our dispute resolution process. We aim to resolve any issues promptly & fairly.
7. Intellectual Property: All intellectual property rights related to our services, including but not limited to trademarks, copyrights & proprietary content, belong to us or our licensors. You may not use or reproduce any such property without prior written consent.
8. Privacy & Data Protection: We are committed to protecting your privacy & handling your personal information responsibly. We collect, use & safeguard your data. Use of data is only for the booking of appointment, patient notes obtained during appointment consultation, invoicing & a follow-up sympathy card.
9. Limitation of Liability: We strive to provide accurate & reliable services but do not guarantee their suitability for your specific needs. We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use or inability to use our services.
10. Consent to Services: When completing our booking form, you are consenting that you are the legal owner of the animal identified in the booking form & that you consent to the veterinarian booked, engaged by Paws At Rest, to perform a euthanasia for my pet in my home.

By using our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood & agree to abide by these Terms of Service. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us for further clarification.

Peaceful Pet Euthanasia in the Comfort of their Home

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