From my point-of-view, there is nothing that prepares for the heartbreak which comes when you lose a beloved pet. The emotions become even more raw when you’re forced to contemplate putting your animal to sleep. As a former vet tech, I assisted in multiple euthanasias. When I knew that my dog Buddy did not have long to live on this earth, I told our veterinarian, Dr. Mark Malo, I didn’t have the heart to pack Buddy in the car and take him to the clinic one last time. I am so grateful that Dr. Malo referred me to Dr. Annie Forslund for in home euthanasia assistance.
I have used an in home service once before. That doctor was very kind and sympathetic, as I’m sure all are. There are a few ways Dr. Forslund helped to decrease the stress and pain. I first called Dr. Forslund about six weeks prior to needing her at the house. During that period, she called several times to check on Buddy. I was also able to call her and seek advice for how to keep Buddy’s last days as comfortable and fulfilling as possible. She told me when I should ask Dr. Malo for certain medications and we all worked as a team. On Buddy’s final day, it became apparent that it was his time to meet our Creator. My wife and I met Dr. Forslund that evening for the first time. However, we had talked so much over the phone that it felt like she was a friend who had come to help us say our final good-byes to Buddy. Between each phase of the procedure, Dr. Forslund encouraged us to take all the time we needed before he was quietly put to sleep.
I will not go into all the technical details but I strongly suggest that everyone request the pre-euthanasia sedation. The sedation makes the whole process very peaceful and it is much easier to insert the catheter. My wife and I can’t express how helpful the sedation option was.
My wife and I wish the longest and happiest time for you and your pet. When you require the assistance that Dr. Forslund provides, be confident that she is helpful, kind, compassionate and comes highly recommended.
Greg Heinly