735 Main Rd, Edgeworth,
NSW, 2285
One of our most challenging responsibilities as professional vets is helping people and families with end of life care for their pets. We are acutely aware of the bond between humans and their animals and saying farewell to a pet is a heartfelt experience for pet owners. At Edgeworth Animal Medical Centre, we are committed to ensuring an end of life journey is as peaceful, respectful, and supportive as possible.
Trusting your vet’s advice
Deciding to say goodbye is always the most challenging part. Rarely is there a cut and dry answer on the best time, and each family’s circumstances are unique. At our clinic, we have developed the “Quality of Life” scales. This helps a family make informed decisions based on the well-being of their pet. Using the scales, we can determine the pet’s mobility, hygiene, pain, appetite, hydration, and overall quality of life. We have found it to be an invaluable tool that helps deliver clarity in a highly emotional time.
“Clients may feel guilt or uncertainty about making the right choice. We offer clarity, reassurance, and support.”
If you have been considering the wellness of your aged or ill pet, your pet is likely in decline, and you’ve noticed or even felt the change. This is the time to reach out to us. We are here to help you make decisions based on what is best for your pet, and we do so with enriched compassion supported by science and experience.
Euthanasia is a kindness
Although it may not feel like it at the time, controlled euthanasia is a kindness when your pet is in incurable pain. We make the process gentle and compassionate. We discuss the process, your options, and any aftercare preferences. We handle the paperwork in advance and reduce as much emotional stress as possible.
Your pet will receive a sedative to relax them, and you can cradle your pet peacefully. We place an intravenous catheter into a leg vein and administer an anaesthetic agent, which gently stops their heart without any pain. We will carefully check your pet regularly to confirm that your pet has passed.
If you’re comfortable, we encourage owners to stay with their pets throughout the process. It is a deeply emotional time and we ensure you have a quiet space, tissues, and as much time as you need to say your final goodbye. We will support you at each step.
“Although it may not feel like it at the time, controlled euthanasia is a kindness when your pet is in incurable pain.”
Caring for the family
Our role in end of life care extends to caring for the family unit. We aim to provide an appointment time that fits with the family’s unique needs. When children are involved we have the experience and resources to conduct our role in an age appropriate environment. We skillfully answer their questions and provide grief councelling resources for pets if required. Edgeworth is a holistic veterinary practice with compassion and empathy as our guiding compass.
Keepsakes and aftercare
We offer a range of aftercare options through our trusted partner, Newcastle and Hunter Pet Crematorium. Families can choose between:
- Private cremation. Your pet is cremated, and the ashes are returned
- Group cremation. No ashes returned
- Keepsakes, such as paw prints, lockets of fur, ceramic urns, wooden boxes, and memorial jewellery, can be provided.
With advanced planning, we can coordinate euthanasia at home. This is a comforting option for elderly members of our community or families seeking quiet and familiar surroundings.
Kindness, compassion, and empathy
We approach each euthanasia appointment with kindness, compassion, and empathy. Clients may feel guilt or uncertainty that they have made the right choice. Through our “Quality of Life” scales and our professional expertise, we offer clarity, reassurance, and support, ensuring you’re confident your decision was made with love.
“We are committed to ensuring an end of life journey is as peaceful, respectful, and supportive as possible.”
Veterinary Services
Trusted veterinary care across every life stage, from vaccinations and surgery to diagnostics, dental, and exotic care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when it’s time to say goodbye to my pet?
Edgeworth Animal Medical Clinic uses a “Quality of Life” scale to assess mobility, hygiene, pain, appetite, hydration, and well-being, helping you make informed decisions with clarity and compassion.
What is the euthanasia process like at Edgeworth?
The procedure is gentle and pain-free. Pets are sedated first for comfort, and an anaesthetic is administered via a leg vein to stop the heart.
Can I be with my pet during euthanasia?
Yes. You are encouraged to stay and say goodbye in a quiet, private space, with as much time and emotional support as you need.
Are there aftercare options available?
Yes. Edgeworth partners with Newcastle and Hunter Pet Crematorium to offer private or group cremation, with a variety of keepsakes like urns, paw prints, or memorial jewellery.
What support is available for families, including children?
The team provides age-appropriate guidance, answers questions with empathy, and offers grief counselling resources to support families.
Contact Info
After-Hours Emergencies
Contact AREC(Animal Referral & Emergency Centre)
1300 838 669