Serenity Veterinary Services

04/27/2024

Artist .bug.art

04/19/2024

Blessed to have met this incredible family, and to help their sweet Chico pass surrounded by loved ones 💗

04/17/2024

Sit, Stay, Heal

So, what is Animal Hospice?

Built upon the philosophy that death is a part of life, pet hospice addresses:

Pain Control
Educational Resources
Emotional Support for the families
Assistance with the transition between treatment and passing.

Animal hospice is palliative veterinary care, focused on the needs of the patient and family; on living life as fully and comfortably as possible until the time of death, and on attaining a degree of preparation for death.

Animal hospice is when the focus moves from CURING to CARING.

Emotional pain doesn’t equal a “weak” person; it takes immense strength to reach out for help. Pet hospice allows the guardian the opportunity to receive on-going support and encouragement to get the help they need.

In the end, what many people these days experience is a relationship with their pet, not an ownership. Therefore, we must make it OK for pet families to feel what they are feeling, to allow them the opportunity to receive on-going support and encourage them to reach out when the pain becomes overwhelming. Because experiencing emotional pain doesn’t make someone weak; rather, reaching out makes them stronger.

04/13/2024

Navigating palliative care, end of life decisions, and the grief process can be overwhelming. Berkeley's Place has developed their Sit, Stay, Heal program to help pet owners through this, and will be presented over the next several weeks 🌈 Follow along for some invaluable support 💜

The pandemic precluded many guardians from being able to be with their companions and say goodbye as they crossed the Rainbow Bridge. For others, the question of navigating end of life care, hospice and terminally ill and aging pets weighs heavy. Our Sit, Stay, Heal program over the next two weeks will help you navigate this tender time in your pet's life.

04/12/2024

Incredibly grateful to be able to support Berkeley's Place, helping families to navigate the difficult end of life process with their beloved pets 🐾💗

04/01/2024

🐾 Meet the veterinarian 🐴

Alyssa knew from a young age that she wanted to be a veterinarian. She was always surrounded by her wide array of pets, including hamsters, rabbits, cats, dogs, horses, and even a tarantula. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Alberta in her hometown of Edmonton, and graduated with her veterinary degree from the University of Calgary in 2016. She was also awarded the Equine Foundation of Canada Scholarship, and the Morton Johnson Scholarship for Outstanding Client Care .

After graduation, she completed additional internship training at specialty practices in Alberta and California, before practicing in Oregon for a couple of years. In 2020 she returned back home to Alberta to practice in the Stony Plain area.

When not at work, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her dogs, relaxing at home with her cat, and riding her horse.

After several years of providing end of life care, both in clinic settings and at families homes, Alyssa developed a passion for end of life care, and pursued certification as a Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian. She is devoted to making that experience comforting and peaceful for both the people and animals involved. She feels that home visits offer a more private experience in which to share those final intimate moments with their loved one. She also believes that being able to relieve pain and suffering, and provide our beloved companions with a peaceful passing is one of the greatest gifts we can offer.

03/31/2024

What happens after the euthanasia is performed?
After the euthanasia procedure, Dr. Alyssa will handle the aftercare process and deliver your pet’s remains to the crematorium. Aftercare options may include communal cremation, where your pet's remains are cremated collectively, or private cremation if you wish to receive their ashes. There are several personalized urn and keepsake options.

03/30/2024

Can children or other pets be present during euthanasia?
🐾 When it comes to children, their presence during in-home euthanasia should be carefully considered. Every child is unique, and their age, emotional maturity, and understanding of death can greatly influence their experience. It is important to involve the child in discussions about the pet's illness, impending euthanasia, and the concept of death. In some cases, children may find comfort being present during the process, providing an opportunity for closure and understanding. However, it is crucial to ensure that they are adequately prepared and supported throughout the process. Parents or caregivers should honestly assess whether the child is emotionally ready to handle the situation, and professional guidance from a counselor or therapist may be beneficial.

🐾 Regarding other pets, their presence during in-home euthanasia depends on various factors. Many animals form strong bonds with each other, and allowing them to be present can give them a chance to comprehend and mourn the loss as well. However, introducing other pets into the room during euthanasia should only be considered if they have a calm and non-disruptive demeanor. If they tend to be anxious, fearful, or easily agitated, it may be more appropriate to keep them in a separate area of the home, ensuring their comfort and well-being.

03/30/2024

Can I be present during the euthanasia process? Yes, absolutely. Being present during the euthanasia process is a personal choice, and many pet owners find it comforting to be with their pet during their final moments. It allows you to be there to offer support, comfort, and love during this difficult time. However, if you feel that being present would be too emotionally challenging for you, it's perfectly okay to step away and allow a supportive family member or friend to be there in your place.

03/27/2024

How is in home euthanasia performed?
In-home euthanasia is performed by a licensed veterinarian who comes to your home with the necessary medications. The process usually begins with the administration of a sedative to ensure your pet is relaxed and comfortable. Once they are peacefully asleep, the veterinarian will administer a medication that brings about a painless and peaceful passing. Dr. Alyssa will guide you through the entire process and can answer any specific questions you may have to help alleviate any concerns. The entire process usually takes 30-60 minutes.