Supporting the difficult decisions

At Babcock Hills we understand how difficult it can be to make the decision to have your beloved put to sleep. We do our best to make the procedure as smooth as possible from the time you make the appointment through saying your last goodbye.

Many pet owners have questions. Listed below are some of those that are commonly asked:

How do I know if it’s time?

Most of the time, knowing exactly the right time to let your pet go is not going to be black and white. Obviously, no one wants to make a premature decision. However, one also doesn’t want to wait so long that their pet suffers additional pain or discomfort needlessly when the time is near. When the bad days outnumber the good days with regard to physical signs (seizures, vomiting, etc.), comfort, appetite, and pleasure from being with the family, it is time to let go. Not having to suffer is the last loving gift you can give your pet.

Is an appointment necessary?

It is best to have an appointment so that we have the room available and ready for you and to make sure the doctor you request is present and available for you.

What happens in the appointment prior to the final procedure?

As you come into our office, a client service representative will escort you to our designated euthanasia room. That staff member will go over our consent form for the procedure and take down your wishes of how you would like your pets’ remains to be addressed. A veterinary technician will take your pet to our treatment area to get an IV catheter placed while the CSR is going over and taking care of charges with you. Once the technician brings your pet back to you, you may have as much time with him or her to say goodbye. When you are ready, the doctor and their technician will come in, talk with you and finally perform the euthanasia.

Should my child/children be present?

It’s really up to you if you think your child should be present or not. The best advice we can give is to be honest about what is happening, whether they will be present or not. 

Can other pets in the household grieve? How can I tell?

Yes, this is very common. They can become less active and mopey. The best thing for them you can do is to give them plenty of attention and affection.

Why do you place an IV catheter?

It makes the procedure a better experience for the pet.

What is the drug given?

It is a form of a barbiturate in combination with another drug.

What happens once the injection is given?

Within seconds after administered, the pet will pass. At that point, all muscle control will be lost and it’s possible for the pet to urinate, defecate, or have involuntary muscle movement.

Will my pet feel any pain?

They shouldn’t feel any pain. Sometimes they will have an initial reaction when the medication is first injected because of the sensation it gives; just like when you get any vaccine or IV injection, it just feels weird.

Will they close their eyes?

No, most of the time the eyes remain open.

How much does it cost?

Please call us to get the most up-to-date cost. 210-697-8581

What is a clay paw and how much is it?

A clay paw is a circular clay disc with an impression of your pets’ paw on it. It is a free option if your pet is euthanized here.

What if my pet passes at home?

If your pet passes at home, you are more than welcome to bring his or her body to us for cremation. We ask that you call us ahead of time so we can get a form ready for a CSR to go over with you once you arrive. The cost of the cremation options are the same. You have the option of a clay paw also; this would be an additional cost to the cremation cost.

What crematory service do you use?

How long until my pets ashes are back?

It can take a few days to a week normally.

What are the options on what to do with my pets’ remains? What are the costs of these?

There are several options you may choose from, all ranging in price. **Please call us for pricing**.

  • Burial: you would take your pet home to bury **must check city codes, buried wires, water pipes, etc.**
  • Cremation with no ashes returned
  • Cremation with your pets ashes returned in an urn