Dog and Cat Euthanasia in Essex
Making the decision to say goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest moments any owner will face. At Ivy Lodge Veterinary Clinic in Brentwood, Essex, we provide compassionate pet euthanasia services for both dogs and cats, offering calm guidance, kindness and support during a very emotional time.
Often referred to as putting a dog to sleep or putting a cat to sleep, euthanasia is a gentle, peaceful and pain-free process. Our priority is to ensure your pet is comfortable, respected and cared for with dignity at every stage.
When Is It Time to Consider Pet Euthanasia?
Knowing when the time is right can feel overwhelming. Many owners worry about making the decision too early or too late. Our vets are here to talk things through honestly and compassionately, helping you assess your pet’s quality of life.
Pet euthanasia may be considered if your dog or cat is experiencing:
- Chronic or severe pain that can no longer be controlled
- Terminal illness or advanced cancer
- Difficulty breathing or heart disease
- Loss of appetite or inability to eat or drink
- Loss of mobility or repeated falls
- Confusion, distress or withdrawal from family
- A significant decline in overall quality of life
If you are unsure, we can help you talk through the options and support you in making the kindest decision for your pet.
What Happens During Dog and Cat Euthanasia?
Euthanasia is a calm and carefully managed procedure. Your pet will first be given a sedative, allowing them to relax and fall into a deep, peaceful sleep. Once they are fully unconscious and comfortable, a final injection is administered, allowing them to pass away quietly and without pain.
You are welcome to stay with your pet throughout the process and spend as much time with them as you need afterwards. Our team will never rush you and will support you with care and sensitivity.
Pet Euthanasia at Home
For some families, pet euthanasia at home can feel like a gentler and more peaceful option. Being in familiar surroundings can help reduce anxiety for both pets and owners.
If you are considering home euthanasia for your dog or cat, please contact us to discuss availability and suitability. We will always be honest about whether this option is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Dog Euthanasia
Dogs are often very expressive, which can make changes in comfort and behaviour easier to recognise. Whether your dog is elderly, suffering from long-term illness or has experienced a sudden decline, our vets will support you through the decision with compassion.
Dog euthanasia may be considered for:
- Advanced arthritis or severe mobility issues
- Terminal cancer or organ failure
- Severe breathing difficulties
- Persistent pain affecting daily life
Dog Euthanasia Prices
Please see below for our dog euthanasia pricing.
| SERVICE | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Dog Euthanasia 0kg-10kg (not including Cremation) | £200.00 |
| Dog Euthanasia 10kg-20kg (not including Cremation) | £220.00 |
| Dog Euthanasia 20kg-30kg (not including Cremation) | £240.00 |
| Dog Euthanasia 30kg-40kg (not including Cremation) | £260.00 |
| Dog Euthanasia 40kg-50kg (not including Cremation) | £280.00 |
| Dog Euthanasia 50+kg (not including Cremation) | £300.00 |
| Euthanasia Home Visit Top-up Fee | £120.00 |
| Euthanasia In-Patient | £80.00 |
Cat Euthanasia
Cats often hide pain and discomfort, meaning subtle changes in behaviour can be important signs. Our team takes extra care to keep cats calm and stress-free during their final visit.
Cat euthanasia may be considered if your cat is experiencing:
- Loss of appetite or rapid weight loss
- Difficulty breathing
- Chronic kidney disease or other long-term illness
- Withdrawal, hiding or changes in behaviour
- Reduced mobility or difficulty using the litter tray
Cat Euthanasia Prices
Please see below for our cat euthanasia pricing.
| SERVICE | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Cat Euthanasia | £180.00 |
| Euthanasia Home Visit Top-up Fee | £120.00 |
| Euthanasia In-Patient | £80.00 |
Cremation Options
Whether your pet has passed unexpectedly or you’re saying goodbye after an illness, we’re here to support you with the next steps. We’ll explain the options clearly and gently, and give you the time and space you need to choose what feels right.
All cremations arranged through Ivy Lodge Vets include complimentary ink prints of your pet’s paw or nose, and a small glass keepsake containing a hair clipping.
Mass Cremation (prices listed below) is a respectful body cremation and does not include the return of ashes.
If you would like your pet’s ashes returned, we can arrange a Private Cremation with Resting Pets, which includes the return of ashes and additional memorial keepsakes.
Please note: all payments for Private Cremation services are made directly with Resting Pets.
Our Pet Cremation Fees
| SERVICE | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Dog Cremation 10kg-20kg | £120.00 |
| Dog Cremation 20kg-30kg | £140.00 |
| Dog Cremation 30kg-40kg | £160.00 |
| Dog Cremation 40kg-50kg | £180.00 |
| Dog Cremation 50+kg | £200.00 |
| Cat Cremation | £60.00 |
| Private Cremation | Payment made with Resting Pets |
Aftercare and Bereavement Support
The loss of a pet can be deeply upsetting, and grief affects everyone differently. At Ivy Lodge Veterinary Clinic, we aim to support you not only during the appointment, but also in the days and weeks afterwards.
To help families say goodbye in comfort and privacy, we have a dedicated pet bereavement suite. This is a private space set apart from our main treatment areas, with its own discreet entrance, designed to provide calm, tranquil surroundings during a difficult time.
We can also offer memorial keepsakes, including free ink prints of your pet’s paw or nose, as well as hair clippings placed in a small glass vial, if you would like something tangible to remember them by.
If you need additional support, we can point you towards bereavement resources such as the Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service, which offers confidential help for anyone struggling with the loss of a pet.
Booking a Pet Euthanasia Appointment
If you feel it may be time to consider putting your dog or cat to sleep, please contact Ivy Lodge Veterinary Clinic in Brentwood, Essex. We will arrange a suitable appointment and support you with kindness, respect and understanding.