Home Euthanasia for Pets
Still River Home Euthanasia for Pets is a veterinary practice solely dedicated to providing families the opportunity to say goodbye to their cherished pet in the privacy and comfort of home.
Founded by Dr. Leslie Neville, Still River Home Euthanasia for Pets serves Harvard, Massachusetts and nearby communities.
I graduated from Tufts University Cummings School Of Veterinary Medicine in 1993 and have had the opportunity to care for a wide variety of animals since then, from beloved dogs and cats, to little blue penguins and endangered sea turtles. Animals enrich our lives in so many ways, and as a veterinarian I consider my ability to perform humane euthanasia a privilege of our profession.
Education:
Wheaton College, 1987.Tufts University, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, 1993.
Small Animal Medical and Surgical Internship, 1994.
The New England Aquarium Aquatic Animal Internship, 2001.
Although I always tried to accommodate families when they asked me to euthanize their pet at home, a busy clinical schedule often didn’t afford me this flexibility. By establishing Still River Home Euthanasia for Pets, I’m now able to offer this option to families and their beloved pets within Harvard and the surrounding communities. I’m honored to be part of such an intimate and emotional decision and to have the opportunity to spend more time with families and their pets during the process.
Deciding when euthanasia is appropriate is a very personal and emotional decision. I offer a phone consultation to discuss your pet’s health, the option of euthanasia, and guidance with a decision process that feels best for you and your pet. I’m also available to speak with your local veterinarian. At your home, there will be time to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have, as well as to talk about the procedure in as much detail as you would like.
My priority is to make you and your pet as comfortable as possible. I have a veterinary technician assist me with the necessary documents and the euthanasia procedure so you’re able to spend time with your pet.
To help alleviate any pain or anxiety your pet may have, I am able to provide a sedative injection prior to euthanasia. Most pets don’t mind the injection, but there maybe some momentary discomfort similar to receiving a vaccination. A pet will typically fall into a deep, sleep-like state within five to 15 minutes after the sedation is administered. It is rare for a pet to have an adverse reaction to the sedative, and I will discuss any possible reactions with you beforehand. When you and your pet are ready I will administer the euthanasia solution. Animals typically don’t close their eyes, and there may be a few deep, reflexive breaths or some muscle twitching.
The owner (or authorized agent) must be present to complete and sign a consent form, which asks if your pet has bitten anyone within the past 10 days. This question is a requirement of the Massachusetts State Rabies law. Please indicate your choice of aftercare arrangements if you have made that decision. I’m able to discuss the different options with you in advance.
Payment is expected at time of service, either at your home before the procedure or at the time of appointment scheduling. I accept payment in the form of cash, credit or debit card.
The cost of the euthanasia is based primarily your pet’s weight. The typical cost of the home visit, sedation and euthanasia is $300-325. There will be an extra charge for service during holidays or after normal business hours. I will let you know your specific cost before you schedule an appointment.
I can help with arrangements for cremation at Forget-Me-Not Pet Crematory in Northborough, MA. Please visit Forget-Me-Not Pet Crematory for details about their different cremation options. If you would like a decorative urn or keepsake item, I’ll note that request, and have you complete the purchase of these additional items directly with Forget-Me-Not. Please note: most items you’re able to choose after your pet’s cremation, except for the clay or ink paw print.
The following is a summary of the cost for Group and Private Cremation based on your pet’s weight:
| Weight, in lbs. | Group Cremation Price | Private Cremation Price |
| >25 | $75 | $150 |
| 26-50 | $100 | $175 |
| 51-75 | $125 | $225 |
| 76-100 | $150 | $275 |
| 101-150 | $175 | $325 |
| 150+ | $200 | $375 |
(978) 855-1494
drneville@stillriverpet.com
Towns included: Acton, Ayer, Bolton, Boxborough, Clinton, Concord, Groton, Harvard/Devens, Hudson, Lancaster, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Stow, Westford.
Please inquire about travel charges and availability outside of the normal service area.