End of Life Care and Cremation

Compassionate end-of-life care for dogs and cats. We offer pet euthanasia and cremation services to support you through this difficult time.

Compassionate End of Life Care for Your Beloved Pets

At Summit Animal Hospital in Winterset, the end of a pet’s life is a profoundly emotional and challenging time. We’re pet owners, too, and know how difficult it can be to make decisions surrounding your pet’s end of life care and humane euthanasia, and we are dedicated to providing empathetic and respectful care for your furry family members.

Signs Your Pet May Be Reaching End of Life

Difficulty breathing or severe respiratory distress
Loss of appetite and significant weight loss
Inability to stand or move without assistance
Lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed

Our veterinary team at Summit Animal Hospital are here to help you objectively assess your pet’s condition and make informed decisions about their care.

Services We Offer

Pet Euthanasia

We offer gentle and humane pet euthanasia services for both dogs and cats. Our experienced and compassionate veterinary team will guide you through the process, ensuring your pet’s comfort and dignity in their final moments.

Pet Cremation

Summit Animal Hospital provides respectful pet cremation services. We understand the importance of honoring your pet’s memory, and our team is here to support you with cremation options that suit your needs to remember and provide moments of comfort from the journey you’ve shared together.

Resources After Pet Loss

Coping with the loss of a pet can be a deeply emotional process.
Here are some recommended books that can offer support and comfort during this time.

Books for Adults

“The Loss of a Pet” by Wallace Sife

This book offers understanding and guidance for those grieving the loss of a beloved pet.

“Goodbye, Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone Who Has Ever Lost a Pet” by Gary Kowalski

Provides comfort and advice for those coping with the death of a pet.

“Going Home: Finding Peace When Pets Die” by Jon Katz

Helps pet owners find solace and peace after the loss of a pet.

“Grieving the Death of a Pet” by Betty J. Carmack

Addresses the emotional challenges and offers practical advice for healing.

“When Your Pet Dies: A Guide to Mourning, Remembering, and Healing” by Alan D. Wolfelt

A compassionate guide for dealing with pet loss.

Books for Children

“The Rainbow Bridge: A Visit to Pet Paradise” by Adrian Raeside

A heartwarming story that helps children understand the concept of pet heaven.

“Goodbye Mousie” by Robie H. Harris

A gentle book that helps children cope with the death of a pet mouse.

“The Tenth Good Thing About Barney” by Judith Viorst

Encourages children to remember and celebrate the good things about their pet.

“When a Pet Dies” by Fred Rogers

A comforting book that helps children understand and express their feelings.

“I’ll Always Love You” by Hans Wilhelm

A touching story about a boy and his dog that helps children deal with loss.

Frequently Asked Questions About End of Life Care and Cremation

Here are some common questions and answers about our end-of-life care services, designed to provide you with the information you need during this difficult time.

What is the process of pet euthanasia?

Pet euthanasia is a peaceful and painless process. A veterinarian will administer a sedative to relax your pet, followed by an injection that gently puts them to sleep.

Can I be present during my pet’s euthanasia?

Yes, you are welcome to be with your pet during the euthanasia process. We encourage you to be present if you feel comfortable, as it can provide comfort to both you and your pet.

How do I know if it’s time to consider euthanasia for my pet?

If your pet is experiencing unmanageable pain, severe distress, or a significant decline in their quality of life, it may be time to consider euthanasia. Our veterinarians can help you make this difficult decision with compassion and care.

What options are available for pet cremation?

We offer individual and communal cremation services. Individual cremation allows you to receive your pet’s ashes in a memorial urn, while communal cremation provides a respectful group service.

How can I cope with the loss of my pet?

Grieving the loss of a pet is a personal and individual process. We can provide resources and support to help you through this difficult time, including information on pet loss support groups.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need support during this difficult time, please don’t hesitate to contact Summit Animal Hospital at (515) 462-3711. Our caring team is here to assist you and provide the compassionate care your pet deserves.