In Australia, pet euthanasia is likely to cost anywhere from $100 to $300, not including burial or cremation. It's an extremely difficult decision to make for any owner, but it's one that often saves your companion undue pain and misery.
How much does it cost to put your pet down?
In Australia, pet euthanasia can cost anywhere from $100-$300 for the procedure itself, not including burial or cremation. The price for euthanasia itself can vary based on these factors:
Size of your pet. Larger animals may require higher doses of anesthesia which can cost more.
Where the procedure happens. Mobile vets may charge an additional call-out fee.
The vet. Prices can vary based on the vet. For example, some vets specialise in more ceremonial-style procedures that may cost more.
You should also be prepared for secondary costs, including storage, cremation and burial as well as any life-saving treatment leading up to euthanasia.
Pet euthanasia services in Australia
Most vets are a one-stop shop for your pet's needs but there are only a few that specialise in pet euthanasia services. Here are some options around Australia:
Aussie Mobile Vet - NSW and QLD
Litchfield Veterinary Hospital - NT
Goodbye Good Boy - NSW, QLD and VIC
My Best Friend - VIC
Sunset Vets - ACT, NSW and QLD
Tasmanian Veterinary Hospitals - TAS
Vets 2 Pets - WA
Did you know?
Pet insurance can cover euthanasia. Not only does it protect your pet throughout their life but lots of policies also cover end-of-life care including emergency care when it's deemed medically necessary by your vet.
We've narrowed down the pet insurance policies that will cover euthanasia
Mobile vet euthanasia cost
Mobile vet euthanasia has become increasingly popular in the last few years. The familiar environment can be a calming influence on you and your pet but you should be aware that is likely to cost more than euthanasia at the vet. For example, Vet To Home puts mobile vet euthansia costs at between $399 and $499.
Some pet owners who can't afford the procedure may think they can perform the euthanasia themselves. Whatever you do, please do not attempt this. The chances of something going wrong are high, and it can cause tremendous suffering for your pet.
Pros and cons of mobile vet euthanasia
Pros
Familiar environment. Your pet gets to spend its last moments in the environment it knows the best. This can have a calming influence on you and your pet.
No uncomfortable car rides. You won't have to load your pet into the car for an uncomfortable and distressing drive to the vet. If you plan on burying your pet in your yard, you won't have to drive home with its body in your car.
Friends and relatives can attend. You can have as many people there to support you as you feel is necessary or appropriate. You can even bring other pets.
Cons
Not for emergencies. If your pet wakes up one day in sheer agony and you know the time has come, it may be better to take it straight to the vet rather than wait for your at-home appointment.
Unfamiliar vet. If your normal vet doesn't offer at-home services, you'll have to find one who does. They will want to see your pet once or twice before doing the procedure, but they won't have the same history that your normal vet has with your pet.
What to expect during the euthanasia procedure
Vets typically use a two-step process designed to gently lead your pet to a more peaceful death. The process, which is the same for dogs and cats, consists of the following:
Sedation. If your pet is overly anxious, the vet will painlessly inject it with a relaxant to calm it down. This keeps the pet from interrupting the procedure and it allows you to spend the last few minutes stroking or cuddling your pet.
General anaesthetic. When it's time to say goodbye, the vet will administer a large dose of general anaesthetic that will painlessly cause your pet to lose consciousness. Death will occur in a matter of minutes.
What to do after your pet has been euthanised
After your pet passes, there are two ways you can lay the body to rest:
Burial. Many people will bury their pets somewhere on their property. If the euthanasia is done at the vet, you will be responsible for bringing the body home. If you don't have a yard but still want to bury your pet, there are several pet cemeteries throughout the country.
Cremation. Most vets can arrange the cremation for you, or you can choose a different provider who will pick up your pet from your home or your vet. You can choose to do a general creation where the ashes aren't returned, or you can have them returned to you in an urn.
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Facts about putting your pet to sleep
Coming to terms with euthanasia is easier when you understand some basic facts about the procedure.
It's not painful for the pet. The procedure is designed to make the experience as comfortable and peaceful as possible for your pet.
It's a last resort. Vets will not suggest euthanasia for a pet whose suffering can be minimised or managed. If your vet recommends euthanasia, you can be confident it's the right choice.
It's a simple procedure. You don't have to send your pet away for a complicated, drawn-out procedure. You can be right there to comfort your pet while an experienced vet gently and effortlessly brings your pet to peace.
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Frequently asked questions on pet euthanasia
The cost of pet euthanasia in Australia can cost anywhere from around $100 to upwards of $500. Costs vary based on the size of your dog, vet costs and whether it occurs at home or at the vet. Pet insurance may cover some or all of the cost.
Vets use a large dose of general anaesthetic to euthanise dogs. If your dog is anxious, your vet might use a sedative first, either orally or via injection, to help relax them.
Your vet may use a sedative to help your dog relax before commencing the euthanasia procedure.
Your vet may use a sedative to help your dog relax before commencing the euthanasia procedure.
There are many reasons why you might decide that euthanasia is best for your pet, including if they:
Can no longer experience the things they once enjoyed
Gary Ross Hunter is an editor at Finder, specialising in insurance. He’s been writing about life, travel, home, car, pet and health insurance for over 6 years and regularly appears as an insurance expert in publications including The Sydney Morning Herald, The Guardian and news.com.au. Gary holds a Kaplan Tier 2 General Advice General Insurance certification which meets the requirements of ASIC Regulatory Guide 146 (RG146).
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