End of Life Pet Care
Compassionate care for a difficult time
At St. Francis Animal Hospital we understand that our pets are our family members and our closest friends. Additionally, we know how difficult it is to say goodbye. We are here to support and guide you so that you don’t have to travel this path alone.
We strongly believe in treasuring the end of life. Our hospice program has been built around this philosophy. We understand how difficult it is to watch your loved one age or to receive a terminal diagnosis for your beloved family member. Our compassionate, caring veterinarians and staff are here for you. We will provide the education you need to understand your pet’s medical condition and the treatment options that may be available. Hospice and palliative care therapy including pain management, anti-anxiety medications, and nutritional support will be discussed when appropriate. If you’ve already reached a decision to elect euthanasia, we will support you and guide you in that process.
We will be working side-by-side with you to provide the best possible care for your loved one every step of the way. We are honored to be a part of your family during this difficult time, and we are here to support you and guide you from beginning to end. In addition, our Pet Loss Library, Pet Loss Support Resources, and Pet Memorials offer you a variety of resources and support during this difficult time. If we can help you and your family in any other way, please contact us at (651) 645-2808 or group@stfrancisabh.com.
Euthanasia Services at St. Francis
Many families choose euthanasia within the clinic setting. We provide a quiet, private peaceful environment to say goodbye to your loved one. A veterinarian and technician will prepare you for what to expect and provide you support throughout the process. You are able to spend as much time as needed afterwards to say your final goodbyes.
Euthanasia Services at Home
In the Twin Cities area, we have several wonderful services that provide euthanasia services in your home. At-home euthanasia services can also provide after-care such as cremation:
- Blue Skies Pet
(651) 332-4763
info@blueskiespet.com - Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice & In-Home Euthanasia
(612) 314-3003
twincities@lapoflove.com - Minnesota Pets
(612) 354-8500
support@mnpets.com
Cremation Services
St. Francis Animal Hospital can provide cremation services for your pet. You may choose a communal cremation or an individual cremation for your pet. A communal cremation means the ashes will not be returned to families. A private or separate cremation means that your individual pet’s ashes will be returned to you.
We perform a complimentary clay paw print for all pets as a keepsake if you desire.
Our cremation services are performed at Veterinary Hospitals Association (VHA) in South St Paul. Pets are picked up at St Francis and their remains are returned to us within two weeks.
We also work with Pets Remembered Cremation Services if desired. We can arrange transportation of your pet’s body to Pets Remembered, or if preferred, you may take your pet directly to their facility or request a pick up at your own home.
Urns
For standard individual cremation, your pet’s ashes are returned to you in a box. Many individuals choose to bury or scatter their pet’s ashes in a special location, while others choose a special urn on their own to keep the ashes safe. Through our cremation service, you may instead choose to have your pet’s ashes returned to you in an urn.
If you are interested in these services you may contact Pets Remembered directly at 651-633-4564, visit their website, or we can help you make the arrangements.
Pet Memorials
“Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.”
—Author Unknown
A memorial is a wonderful way to remember a loved one. It is a way to keep your pet’s memory alive and to celebrate his or her life with others. A memorial is also a way to help you through the grieving process. We encourage you to post a photo and a memorial about your pet on our Pet Memorial Wall.
Please reach out to us at (651) 645-2808 if there’s anything we can do for you.
