End of Life Considerations

Facing the end of your pet's time on this Earth can be an unpredictable emotional experience.  We have many resources to help you on this journey.

Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital End of Life Care and Considerations

• Euthanasia decisions are unique for each pet and person or people involved.

• We offer a variety of opportunities to assist your journey.

• Appointments are available at our facility. We try to schedule this at a quieter time of the day.   COVID-19 restrictions allow only 1 - 2 related individuals to accompany patient into the building.  Masks are mandatory. 

• We offer cremation services.  Cremains will be returned in a simple wood-toned box with an optional name plate or you can provide your own urn. Other selections some people are interested in include a clay or ink paw print.  Ideally this can be done at home prior to your pet's last visit. See information at the bottom of this page.

• Home burials are allowed in most municipalities.  Cremation without return of cremains is also available. 

Pet Loss Support Page

Information about coping with pet loss and links to support groups in your area

ASPCA End of Life Care
Information on pet loss from the ASPCA including a hotline number.

Pet Euthanasia: How do I know It's Time?

When Your Animal Dies: Understanding Your Feelings of Loss 

Grief Support Groups:

• Grace Lutheran Church
  202 W Grand Ave
  Eau Claire 
  Fourth Tues of the month. Enter at Second Avenue door

• U of MN Companion Animal Love, Loss & Memories (CALLM) Group

• Animal Emergency Referral Clinic (Oakdale) Pet Loss Support Group

• Washington State Pet Loss Hotline - Volunteers available by phone

• Rainbow Bridge
  Anyone who has ever lost a pet should visit this wonderful site. It is a terrific tribute to our lost family members

Clay Paw Prints  Veterinary Company with Instructional Videos    

We recommend purchasing this kit in advance. Designing this yourself at home can be a memorable part of the process of saying good-bye. We have a limited supply of the basic design available for sale at Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital. This product is also available on Amazon

Ink Paw Prints   

Kits are available online on Etsy or search Ink Paw Print Kit on  Amazon

Another place for urns and memory items:  A WI based company that offers urns and other items   www.farewellcollection.com    Also has Etsy site: www.etsy.com/shop/phpottery