Pet Emergency Planner • Resource 4 of 5
Questions to Ask
Your Veterinarian
A complete guide to the conversations that matter most
when navigating end-of-life care for your pet
"There are no wrong questions when it comes
to the wellbeing of someone you love."
Dr. Dixon • (704) 274-2999 • drdixon@shayshayvet.com • shayshayvet.com
Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian
Bringing These Questions to Your Visit
It can be hard to think clearly in the middle of a difficult appointment. Bring this guide with you, check the boxes as you go, and use the notes lines to capture answers. You deserve to leave every conversation feeling informed and supported — never rushed or confused.
About Prognosis & What to Expect
- What is my pet's current diagnosis, and what does the likely progression look like over the next weeks or months?
- Is this condition curable, manageable, or are we focused on comfort at this stage?
- What physical changes should I watch for that signal the disease is advancing?
- How will I know when quality of life has declined to a point where intervention is needed?
- Are there any treatment options we haven't tried that might improve quality of life — even temporarily?
- What would you do if this were your own pet? (It's okay to ask this.)
About Pain Management & Comfort Care
- Is my pet currently experiencing pain? How can you tell, and how confident are you?
- What pain management options are available, and how effective are they for this condition?
- Are there side effects to the pain medications I should be aware of?
- What are signs at home that the pain medication is working — or not working?
- Is there a point at which pain can no longer be adequately managed?
- Are there complementary comfort measures (massage, warm compresses, special positioning) that would help?
About Timeline & Planning Ahead
- Do you have a sense of how much time we may have? Even a rough estimate helps us prepare emotionally.
- Should I start thinking about end-of-life planning now, or is it still too early?
- Are there milestones or symptoms that should trigger an immediate call to you?
- What is the best way to reach you after hours if my pet is in distress?
- Should I be making arrangements with a mobile vet or end-of-life specialist now?
Notes from this appointment:
Shay Shay Veterinary Mobile | Dr. Dixon | (704) 274-2999
drdixon@shayshayvet.com | shayshayvet.com
Questions to Ask Your Veterinarian
About the Euthanasia Process Itself
- Can you walk me through exactly what will happen, step by step, so I know what to expect?
- Will my pet be sedated first so they are relaxed and unaware before the final medication?
- Will my pet feel any pain during the process?
- How quickly does the process happen? What will I see?
- Can my whole family be present? Can other pets in the home be present?
- Can we do this at home so my pet is in a familiar, comfortable environment?
- How long can we stay with our pet afterward?
- Is there anything I should do to prepare the day before or the morning of?
About Aftercare Options
- What are the aftercare options — private cremation, communal cremation, home burial?
- If we choose private cremation, how long does it take and how are the ashes returned to us?
- Can you recommend a cremation provider or memorial service you trust?
- Are there any legal restrictions in our area regarding home burial?
- Do you offer paw prints, fur clippings, or other keepsakes as part of your service?
About Financial Considerations
- What is the cost of a consultation, and what does it include?
- What are the costs for at-home euthanasia, and are there additional charges for aftercare coordination?
- Are there payment plan options available if needed?
- What does my pet insurance cover for end-of-life care, if anything?
- Are there any low-cost resources available in our community if finances are a barrier?
A note from Dr. Dixon: No question is too small, too emotional, or too difficult to ask. I would rather you ask everything and leave feeling at peace than hold back and go home with worry. Please call or email me any time — before, during, or after your pet's journey. That is what I am here for.
Space for Your Own Questions
Write down anything specific to your pet or situation that you want to remember to ask:
Questions for Dr. Dixon? She's ready to listen.
Schedule a consultation — unhurried, compassionate, and always at home.
(704) 274-2999
shayshayvet.com/schedule-appointment
Shay Shay Veterinary Mobile | Dr. Dixon | (704) 274-2999
drdixon@shayshayvet.com | shayshayvet.com