A free HUMM guide

What to ask before you book euthanasia at home

A free checklist from Dr. Judith Samson-French, so you walk into this day prepared, not blindsided.

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Before you begin

Choosing to say goodbye at home is one of the kindest things you can do for your dog. The questions below will help you choose a provider you trust and get the goodbye you want, whoever you call.

I’m Dr. Judith Samson-French. I’ve been a veterinarian for over 30 years and ran a veterinary hospital for 24 of them, so I’ve been in the room for a great many goodbyes. I don’t provide euthanasia or aftercare services, and I have no stake in who you choose.

My only aim is that you walk into this day prepared, not blindsided.

Five questions to ask when you first call

A good provider will answer them warmly and without hurry.

  1. How soon can you come? Can you help on evenings, weekends or holidays?
  2. Will my dog be sedated first so they are relaxed and asleep before the final injection?
  3. Can it happen outside, on the couch, or in their favourite spot?
  4. Should our other pets be present? Can they see their companion afterwards?
  5. What is the total cost, and what does it include: travel, exam, sedation, euthanasia, aftercare?

These are only a few. The full guide has the rest.

What is inside the full guide

  • How to tell whether it may be time, before you call anyone
  • The questions to ask a provider, from timing and sedation to cost and aftercare
  • What to talk through as a family, including what to tell the children
  • What to expect on the day, and what is normal so it doesn’t frighten you

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Enter your email and we’ll send the complete checklist, plus The Witty Vet, Dr. Judith’s newsletter for dog humans who ask good questions.

Not sure yet whether it’s time?

A HUMM Decision Consult is a private video call with Dr. Judith for families facing a hard decision. You get a written summary and a list of questions for your vet team.

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HUMM · Humans Understanding Meaningful Medicine. Educational content only. Not a substitute for veterinary advice.