Walking This Road With You
Few moments in pet ownership are harder than the ones that come at the end. After years — sometimes decades — of love, companionship, and shared life, it can feel impossible to know what comes next, or how to navigate decisions you never wanted to face.
At Rialto Animal Hospital, we’re honored to be there with families during this chapter. Our team approaches end-of-life and hospice care with the same values we bring to every part of our work: compassion, honesty, and a deep respect for the bond between you and your pet.
You are not alone in this, and there is no wrong question to ask.
Knowing When It’s Time
One of the most painful questions pet families face is whether the time has come. There’s rarely a single clear answer — and sometimes the kindest thing we can do is sit with you, look at your pet’s quality of life honestly, and help you weigh what’s best for them.
When you’re ready, we’re here to talk through:
- Signs that quality of life may be declining
- Pain management options to keep your pet comfortable for as long as possible
- What hospice and palliative care can offer when treatment is no longer the goal
- What to expect during a euthanasia appointment, when that time arrives
There is no judgment in this conversation — only support, information, and the gentleness your family deserves.
Pet Quality-of-Life Checklist
Some families find it helpful to use a quality-of-life checklist to help evaluate their pet’s condition in an honest, straightforward manner. Below is a link to our quality-of-life checklist. If it’s helpful, please feel free to print it and bring it to your appointment if you’re concerned about your pet’s quality of life or unsure about end-of-life care.
Hospice and Palliative Care
When a pet is facing a serious illness or the natural decline of old age, our goal shifts from treating disease to honoring comfort. Hospice and palliative care focus on managing pain, supporting your pet’s quality of life, and giving your family meaningful time together for as long as that time is good.
We’ll work with you to create a care plan that fits your pet’s needs and your family’s circumstances — including pain medications, supportive therapies, and clear guidance on what to watch for as things progress.
Euthanasia
Before proceeding, one of our veterinarians will meet with you and evaluate your pet’s comfort, quality of life, and medical condition. Sometimes families come to us knowing it is time; other times they are seeking guidance. Our role is to provide compassionate medical insight, answer your questions honestly, and help determine the most appropriate path forward for your pet.
When the time comes to say goodbye, our team is committed to making it as peaceful and dignified as possible — for your pet and for you.
Euthanasia appointments at Rialto Animal Hospital are unhurried and gentle. We use carefully chosen sedation and pain medications to ensure your pet is calm, comfortable, and free of distress throughout the process. You’re welcome to stay with your pet, to bring family members, and to take whatever time you need — before, during, and after.
If there are special requests — favorite blankets, treats, music, a particular family member who should be there — please share them with us. We want this experience to honor the life you shared.
Aftercare
Following your pet’s passing, we’ll guide you through aftercare options, including communal and private cremation services through our trusted local partners. Memorial options are available if you’d like to keep a piece of your pet’s memory close. Our team will walk you through every choice with patience and clarity.
Support Resources
In-Home Euthanasia
For some families, in-home euthanasia is the better option. We recommend Lap of Love for this service. They are able to assist with peaceful, dignified in-home euthanasia services, after care, and grief support resources.
Grief Is Real — and It’s Okay Here
The loss of a pet is a profound grief. It can affect every member of your household, including children and other pets, who often sense the change before we can explain it.
If you or your family need support in the days and weeks after, please reach out. We can recommend local and online grief resources, books, and support communities for adults and children. There is no shame in mourning a pet deeply. They earn it.
We’re Here When You Need Us
If you’re facing decisions about end-of-life care for your pet, please don’t hesitate to reach out — even just to talk through what you’re thinking. Call us at (909) 875-6161.
We are honored to be part of your pet’s story, from beginning to end.