The term euthanasia originates from the Greek words "eu" and "thanatos", translating to “good death”. It is the painless ending of life to eliminate pain and suffering. Home euthanasia is a compassionate veterinary service that allows pets to pass away peacefully in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by their loved ones. This approach minimises stress for both you and your pet.

When you contact Rover, we’ll ask you a few questions about your pet and their medical history. Once a euthanasia decision is made, we will schedule a convenient time for a veterinarian and a veterinary nurse to come to your home. The team will discuss the procedure with you, answer any questions, and ensure your pet is comfortable throughout the process. Once you’ve said your final goodbyes, we will respectfully transport your pet’s body for you, and help you organise aftercare (i.e. cremation and keepsakes).

For a step-by-step guide on what to expect at your consultation, please click here.

Our veterinary team uses gentle, humane methods to ensure that your pet experiences minimal discomfort. We prioritise your pet’s comfort and dignity, allowing for a peaceful journey. Our team will administer an oral or injectable sedation at the start of the procedure, to assist in a smooth and stress-free transition.

Absolutely! We encourage you to be by your pet’s side. This can be a comforting experience for both you and your pet, allowing you to say your goodbyes in a loving environment.

Yes, children can be present if you and they feel it is right. Every family is different, and sometimes being there can help children understand and say goodbye in a healthy, supported way.

We recommend preparing children in advance with age-appropriate explanations. Some children benefit from bringing a comfort item or having a designated, calm, adult “helper” during and after the process. Some families choose to have children come in to say goodbye before the procedure and leave during, and others choose to have children say goodbye afterward. This decision depends on the child’s age and emotional needs, and the family’s preference.

Our team will talk through what to expect in gentle language for everyone present, and will guide everyone through the process.

Yes, your other pets can be present if you feel it will help them understand and adjust. Many animals do seem to notice when something changes, and being nearby during or after the euthanasia can sometimes help reduce confusion or searching behaviours.

However, every pet is different. If your other pet becomes distressed or distracting for you, it may be best to give them space and remove them from the area. Afterward, if they weren’t present, we can offer a quiet opportunity for them to say goodbye, sniff, or observe before we remove the body, if that feels right to you.

We understand that some pets can experience fear aggression or even aggression related to the pain they are suffering.

We can work with you to create a plan that prioritises everyone’s safety while ensuring your pet is comfortable. If you know your pet is reactive toward vets or is in pain, please let us know at the time of booking. In some cases, we may recommend visiting your regular vet for medications to help ease your pet's anxiety before the appointment. Our goal is to provide a peaceful experience for both you and your pet.

We recommend creating a calm environment for your pet. You may want to have their favourite blanket or toys nearby. Feel free to gather any family members who wish to be present, and consider any special memories you’d like to share.

For our more detailed recommendations on preparing your home, please click here.

Our team is here to help. You can reach out to us anytime before your appointment to discuss your concerns or ask questions. We want you to feel fully supported.

If you would like to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please call us as soon as possible before your scheduled booking to discuss what is best for your pet. If your pet experiences an emergency or passes away before their appointment, please reach out to us at your earliest convenience.

Prior to the procedure, we will discuss your options and wishes for aftercare, including cremation or burial. We will ensure that you have all the information you need to make the best decision for you and your pet.

If you do not wish to keep your pet’s body to bury at home, our team will respectfully transport them to the care of Edenhills. This requires us to take your pet’s body with us after the consultation. With your consent, we will have Edenhills contact you to arrange cremation and keepsakes specified to your family’s wishes. If you choose an aftercare package that includes the return of ashes or keepsakes, these will be delivered to your home when ready.

Yes. You may keep your pet’s body to bury at home, but it is up to you to follow council and environmental regulations. We can provide you with a biodegradable bag to bury them within. Please note, keepsake options which include ashes, paw prints, or fur will not be available through Edenhills in this case. Please let us know prior to your consultation if you wish to keep your pet’s body for home burial.

Deciding to euthanise a pet is incredibly personal. We encourage open discussions with your family and your regular veterinarian about your pet’s quality of life and any concerns you may have. We can help guide you through this difficult decision.

Please click here for our quality of life assessment tool, to help you make an informed and compassionate decision.

If you are booked for a home euthanasia but your pet passes away on their own at home, please reach out to us. Our team can still provide support through the aftercare process and help you organise the careful collection of your pet’s body, as well as the return of their ashes to your home.

Rover provides home euthanasia services in the Western Suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria. If you are outside our service area or are unsure, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to check our availability in your location.

You can easily schedule an appointment by calling us at 0411 683 226 or emailing us at contact@rovervets.com.au. Our team will work with you to find a convenient and appropriate time for your appointment.

Please let us know at the time of booking if you wish for your consultation to be processed for an insurance claim. You will be required to pay your invoice in full at the start of the consultation, then we can facilitate the sending of your invoice and consultation notes to your provider. We recommend contacting your provider prior to your consultation to ensure coverage of mobile vet visits and euthanasia. We cannot guarantee full coverage, as this is decided by your insurance provider.

We do not currently accept Afterpay.