A peaceful goodbye at home
Thank you for trusting Rising Sun Veterinary Clinic with your family member’s end-of-life care. We believe this time should be calm, respectful, and centered on your pet’s comfort. Our team will guide you through each step so the experience is as smooth as possible.
What is in-home euthanasia
In-home euthanasia allows your pet to rest in a familiar place surrounded by loved ones. Your veterinarian explains the process, answers questions, and provides quiet space for goodbyes.
How to prepare
- Choose a comfortable spot your pet loves. A favorite couch, bed, or a quiet outdoor area are all appropriate.
- Gather comfort items such as a blanket, bed, or toys.
- Place a potty pad or towel under your pet if you select carpet or furniture. Some pets naturally release urine or stool as they pass.
- Invite family and close friends who wish to be present. Make sure the veterinarian can easily reach your pet to give medications.
What to expect during the visit
- Arrival and greeting. Your veterinarian and staff will greet you and your pet.
- Paperwork. We review the euthanasia consent and, if selected, cremation authorization.
- Process overview. Your veterinarian explains the steps from start to finish and answers questions.
- Gentle sedation. A sedative is given to help your pet relax. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- IV catheter placement. Once your pet is fully relaxed, an IV catheter is placed.
- Final injection. The euthanasia medication is administered through the catheter. You may remain with your pet, holding or touching them as you wish, while the doctor maintains access to the catheter.
- Confirmation. When your pet has passed, the veterinarian will let you know.
- Time with your pet. If you elected cremation, you may spend private time with your pet before our team gently transports them.
Cremation services
- We partner with a trusted outside cremation service that shares our compassion. Your pet’s body is taken to our clinic, then to the crematory.
- Ashes typically return to our clinic within 7 to 10 business days.
- We will contact you as soon as your pet’s remains are ready to come home.
Cost of Services
Our in-home euthanasia packages are designed to be clear and respectful. Every option includes our trip to your home and the euthanasia service itself. When cremation is selected, clinic staff will gently place your pet in a burial bag or box for transport to the clinic and then transfer remains to cremation bags before delivery to our cremation partner.
In-Home Euthanasia with Home Burial — $325
This option allows you to lay your pet to rest at home. Your veterinarian provides a calming sedative, then places an IV catheter to administer the final medication once your pet is fully relaxed. A small fur clipping and paw prints are created during the visit. We provide a burial box or bag to assist with home burial preparations.
In-Home Euthanasia with Cremation, No Return of Ashes — $450
Choose this when you prefer cremation without ashes returned. Your pet receives gentle sedation, followed by IV catheter placement and the final medication. We create a fur clipping and paw prints for your keepsakes. After your time with your pet, our team will remove and transport your pet with care to the cremation service.
In-Home Euthanasia with Cremation and Return of Ashes — $750
This package includes sedation, IV catheter placement, and the final medication, with a fur clipping and paw prints made during the visit. We manage removal and transport to the cremation service, and you may select your preferred cremation package for the return of ashes. When your pet’s ashes arrive back at the clinic, we notify you right away so you can bring them home.
Home burial guidance
Local regulations vary. Please review your city or county rules before choosing burial at home.
- Graves should be at least three feet deep to prevent wildlife from disturbing the site.
- Euthanasia medications remain highly toxic to other animals. Deep burial helps protect pets and wildlife.
We provide a burial bag or box as part of our service. You may wrap your pet in a favorite blanket or include special items.
Photos and privacy
- Please do not photograph or video our staff without their express consent.
- We ask that you do not post images or videos of the procedure on social media out of respect for our team and for your family’s privacy.
Aftercare and support
Grief is personal. If you would like resources for pet loss support groups, children’s books about pet loss, or memorial options, let us know. We will share recommendations that fit your family.
Service area
We provide in-home euthanasia in Rising Sun and nearby communities in southeastern Indiana. Availability is limited and scheduled with care to protect the calm nature of these visits.
Ready to talk
If you are considering in-home euthanasia, please reach out. We will answer questions and help you decide what feels right for your pet and family.
- Call: (812) 438-2055
- Email: rsveterinaryclinic@gmail.com
Know that all of us here at Rising Sun Veterinary Clinic respect your final wishes with your pet as they are a part of your family. We hope to help your family honor their life with compassion and love just as they would receive at home. Thank you for trusting us with your pet and family during this difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the appointment?
Most visits take 45 to 60 minutes. Sedation time can vary. You will never be rushed.
Can other pets be present?
Yes, if you wish. Many families find it helpful to allow other household pets to say goodbye before or after the procedure.
Do we need to fast our pet?
No. Offer water and small treats if they are comfortable.
Where should we set up?
Choose a quiet place that is easy to access. A favorite bed or a sunlit spot often feels right.
What if we are unsure about cremation or burial?
We can explain both options and give you time to decide. If you choose cremation later, we will guide next steps.