Offering Compassionate Pet Euthanasia Services in Ruston, Louisiana

Old Blonde Dog

The tremendous amount of joy and purpose our pets bring to our lives makes it that much harder to let them go. Whether your companion is terminally ill or living out the remaining days of their golden years, you will inevitably have to make end of life care plans to ease them over the Rainbow Bridge. At Lagniappe Animal Health, we understand the challenges and emotions that accompany end of life decisions, and you have our support through it all. We can’t make the tough decisions for you, but we can answer your questions, give an honest assessment of your pet’s condition, and walk you through the next steps so you know what to expect. We’re here for you.

Call (318) 255-3303 to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your pet’s needs.

Knowing When It’s Time to Say Goodbye

When a pet has a poor quality of life and a poor prognosis, euthanasia is often the recommended next step to relieve their suffering. But knowing when it’s time to move forward with this choice can be difficult, and you might want to speak with your veterinarian to help solidify your decision.

To determine your pet’s quality of life, we look at several things:

  • Their eating habits--are they leaving their food and water bowls untouched?
  • Mobility--is your pet unable to stand and walk unassisted?
  • Comfort--does your pet seem to be in constant or near-constant pain?
  • Illness--does your pet suffer from ongoing bouts of vomiting and/or diarrhea?
  • Interaction--do they avoid engaging with you and your family in favor of sleeping all day or hiding?
  • Incontinence--does your pet have little to no control over their bladder/bowels?

Senior Wellness and Palliative Care

To keep pets in the best of health when they reach their senior years, we recommend semiannual wellness visits. Routine blood work helps us keep tabs on your companion's health, and well-regulated pain management can ease their chronic aches and pains. If necessary, we can also offer palliative care to make your pet's remaining time as comfortable as possible.

Cat And Dog Snuggling

What to Expect with Euthanasia

Euthanasia is the gentlest and most respectful way to end an animal’s suffering. It is a privilege for us to help families through this process and give their pets the dignified treatment they deserve. We’ll allow you all the time and privacy you need to say goodbye to your cherished four-legged family member, then proceed to the next step with your permission. To make your pet’s experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible, we first administer sedation to send them into a relaxing sleep. Then, with your consent, we will administer the euthanasia, which acts quickly.

Afterward, you have the option of choosing communal or private cremation for your companion. Whatever you decide, we’ll help you make the necessary arrangements. You might prefer to do this before the euthanasia, so you won’t have to worry about it after.

To learn more about cremation options, call us at (318) 255-3303.