Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest moments a family can face.
For many, pets are not just animals, but companions, sources of comfort and members of the family. When age, illness or declining quality of life makes a goodbye unavoidable, how — and where — that moment happens matters deeply.
For pet owners across Utah, in-home pet euthanasia is an option more families are opting for, as provided by Better Home Goodbyes.
This option, though still difficult, prioritizes comfort, dignity and peace during a profoundly emotional and challenging time.
Dr. Dustin Clark, a licensed veterinarian and the founder of Better Home Goodbyes, provides compassionate in-home euthanasia services for your beloved pets, small and large, and helps families navigate end-of-life care with clarity and kindness.
His goal is to make these difficult life moments as gentle as possible for both pets and the people who love them.
Here's why you should consider at-home euthanasia for your pet when that time comes.
Home is the most comforting place — for everyone
Traditional in-clinic euthanasia often involves car rides, waiting rooms and unfamiliar smells and sounds — all of which can heighten anxiety for pets, especially those already in pain or distress.
In contrast, in-home euthanasia allows animals to remain in the place where they feel safest and most at ease.
Pets have their favorite spots and love being with their people — especially at home.
These familiar surroundings, smells, and routines can bring significant comfort to your pet and make all the difference in their final moments.
For families, being at home also removes the pressure of a clinical, unfamiliar environment.
There is no need to rush through emotions or say goodbye in a crowded, uncomfortable space. Instead, loved ones can take all the time they need at home, whether that means gathering family members, saying prayers or simply sitting quietly together as you lovingly stroke your pet's fur or nuzzle their face.
What the in-home euthanasia process looks like
For those unfamiliar with the process, in-home euthanasia is designed to be calm, respectful and focused on the pet's comfort every step of the way.
When Dr. Clark arrives, he takes time to talk with the family, answer questions and explain what will happen. He and the process are gentle, caring, and patient.
As Google reviewer, Nona M. said, "We are profoundly grateful for the compassionate care provided by Better Home Goodbyes.
They came to our home to assist our beloved dog at the end of his life, and the kindness and professionalism they showed brought peace to an incredibly difficult moment. From the very first emergency call, they were sympathetic and understanding, and they made every effort to arrive quickly to help our beloved pet."
She continues, "When they arrived, they treated our dog with the utmost respect and gentleness, ensuring he was comfortable and surrounded by love. Their calm presence and thoughtful explanations gave us reassurance and support. It was clear that they truly care about both the animals they serve and the families who love them."
Families are encouraged to be as involved as they wish — holding their pet, speaking softly or simply being present.
There is no pressure either way, and Dr. Clark emphasizes there is no "right" way to say goodbye. And if you're worried that with it being "at-home" means it could cost more, don't. It's an affordable option worth considering.
An option for small and large animals alike
Raised on a farm in Idaho, Dr. Clark knows how much small and large animals can mean to their owners. Better Home Goodbyes provides their services for both small and large animals, including horses, livestock and other animals.
For large animal owners, transporting an animal in poor health can be an especially stressful and impractical ordeal.
Providing euthanasia at a farm or property allows animals to remain in familiar surroundings, minimize distress and ensure a humane, respectful passing.
Dr. Clark brings the necessary equipment and experience to manage the specific needs of each animal, ensuring the process is handled professionally and compassionately, regardless of size or species.
Knowing your options matters
Grief can make decision-making difficult, especially when families are unaware of the choices available to them.
By educating pet owners about in-home euthanasia, Better Home Goodbyes hopes to remove uncertainty and empower families to choose what feels right for their situation.
For many, that choice could be allowing a beloved pet to pass away at home — surrounded by love, familiar comfort and quiet goodbyes.
More information about at-home euthanasia, as well as their cremation and quality-of-life exams, coverage areas and the staff is available at https://betterhomegoodbyes.com/.
