End Of Life Care

Gentle end of life care and comfort-focused support for dogs and cats in Carver, MN. Healing Hands Veterinary Hospital provides a safe, peaceful space for goodbye.
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End Of Life Care

End Of Life Care for Dogs and Cats in Carver, MN

Gentle, Compassionate Support for a Peaceful Goodbye

Saying goodbye to a beloved dog or cat is one of the most emotional experiences a family can go through. It’s a time filled with love, sorrow, reflection, and a deep desire to do what’s best for your pet. Our team at Healing Hands Veterinary Hospital
understands just how profound this moment is. Our focus is on providing a peaceful, respectful environment where families can share final moments with their pets in comfort and privacy, surrounded by kindness and understanding.

Every goodbye is personal. Whether your pet is nearing the end due to age, illness, or injury, our approach is centered on helping you navigate this decision with clarity, support, and the space to honor your pet’s life.

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What End Of Life Care Looks Like

End of life care involves more than a medical procedure. It is about preserving dignity, minimizing discomfort, and supporting emotional well-being, both for pets and the people who love them. We offer comfort-focused care designed to make the final chapter as peaceful as possible.

Comfort and Palliative Care

When pets are facing life-limiting conditions, they may not need immediate euthanasia but do need relief from discomfort. Our palliative care options are focused on improving quality of life while helping families prepare for what’s ahead.

We may recommend:

Pain relief and mobility support

Appetite enhancement and hydration support

Monitoring of changes in comfort and behavior

Guidance in understanding when “it’s time”

This kind of support allows families to spend meaningful time with their pets without unnecessary suffering. It also opens space for thoughtful conversations and decision-making.

Gentle Euthanasia

When a pet’s pain can no longer be managed or their quality of life has declined significantly, euthanasia can be the most compassionate decision. This is never something families face alone.

Our team offers:

A private, quiet room for peace and privacy

A relaxed, unhurried process led by a skilled and empathetic veterinarian

Sedation to ensure your pet is calm and free from fear

Time before and after the procedure to say goodbye in your own way

We approach this time with deep respect for the human-animal bond. You will be surrounded by warmth, soft blankets, and a team that honors the love you’ve shared with your companion.

Memorial and Aftercare Options

Following euthanasia, families have several options for aftercare.

We work with a trusted cremation partner to offer:

Private cremation with ashes returned in a wooden urn.

Communal cremation with respectful handling of the cremains.

A lock of hair preserved in a small glass jar can be provided

Every detail, from handling your pet’s body to creating a memento, is treated with care.

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Why Carver Families Trust Us in Life’s Hardest Moments

The environment you’re in during difficult moments matters. Healing Hands Veterinary Hospital was created to be a place of trust, warmth, and individualized care. We don’t believe in rushing decisions or forcing standardized plans. Instead, we listen to you, and to your pet.

Some of the reasons families choose our hospital for end of life care include:

Dr. Carissa is well versed in helping patient’s transition based on her work as a mobile veterinarian providing in-home euthanasia services.

40-minute appointments that allow time to talk, breathe, and process

A team culture rooted in creating a safe space for everyone: clients, pets, and staff

Commitment to collaborative medicine, where you’re in control and supported every step of the way

This isn’t just about veterinary care. It’s about showing up for families with empathy and respect during one of the hardest days they’ll face.

What to Expect When You Come In

Understanding the process ahead can bring comfort. Our approach is transparent and always centered on your needs.

What to Expect When You Come In

1. Initial Conversation

You’ll be welcomed into a quiet room to meet with the doctor. This is time to ask questions, talk through your pet’s condition, and share any thoughts or hesitations you have.

2. Options for Comfort Care

If your pet is still alert, eating, or enjoying life in small ways, we may discuss short-term palliative options to keep them comfortable at home until the time is right.

3. Euthanasia Procedure

When it’s time, we begin with sedation to help your pet relax and fall asleep painlessly. Once they are deeply asleep, the final injection is given, and they pass peacefully in your presence.

4. Private Time

You are welcome to stay as long as you need. There is no rush. Whether you need a quiet goodbye, time with family, or simply a few minutes of stillness, we will hold the space.

5. Aftercare Arrangements

If you choose cremation, we will coordinate that for you and let you know when keepsakes or ashes are available for pickup.

You're Not Alone. We're Here to Help.

Whether you are beginning to think about your pet’s comfort or know that the time to say goodbye is near, we’re here to guide you with honesty, warmth, and respect. Healing Hands Veterinary Hospital is a place where your grief is honored and your love for your pet is never taken lightly.

 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out. We welcome your questions, and we’re ready to support you every step of the way. Call us today at 952-999-2278 or email us at healinghandsvetstaff@gmail.com.

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You're Not Alone. We're Here to Help.
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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About End Of Life Care

Look for signs like difficulty walking, loss of interest in food or activities, unmanageable pain, or confusion. We’re here to talk through these changes with you and help assess what your pet is experiencing.

Absolutely. Most families choose to remain with their pet, and our space is designed to make that time meaningful and comforting.

At this time, our euthanasia services are provided at the hospital. We’ve designed the room to feel warm and peaceful like home.

We can create clay or ink paw prints at your request. If there’s something else you’re thinking about, let us know and we’ll do our best to honor your wishes.

Typically, families receive ashes within 7–10 days if private cremation is chosen. We’ll call you as soon as they’re ready.

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