End-of-Life Care for Dogs and Cats in South Surrey and White Rock, BC
Saying goodbye to a pet is one of the most profound experiences a family can go through, and how that moment is handled matters. At Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital in South Surrey, our end-of-life care services are built around one priority: giving your pet a peaceful, dignified passing, and giving your family the support and space to be present in a way that feels right for you. There is no single right way to navigate this time, and our team is here to guide you through each step with compassion, clarity, and respect. Call (604) 536-3131 to speak with our team.
In-Clinic End-of-Life Care
In-clinic end-of-life care at Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital is offered in a private, calm setting where your family can be present with your pet in their final moments. We take time to answer your questions, explain what to expect, and ensure that everything moves at a pace that feels manageable for you. Our focus is entirely on your pet's comfort and your family's peace of mind. You are welcome to stay as long as you need before and after. We handle all practical arrangements with the discretion and care that this time deserves.
Communal Cremation
Communal cremation is a respectful option for families who do not wish to have ashes returned. Your pet is cremated alongside other pets with dignity and care. This option is available at a lower cost than private cremation and is the right choice for many families. Our team explains what to expect and handles all arrangements on your behalf. There is no requirement to make decisions quickly. We will walk through the options with you at the time of your visit or over the phone if you prefer to discuss them in advance.
Private Cremation
Private cremation ensures that only your pet is cremated and that their ashes are returned to you. The ashes are returned in a dignified container and may be placed in an urn, used for a memorial product, or handled in any way that feels meaningful to your family. Many families find private cremation a meaningful way to maintain a lasting connection with their pet. We work with a trusted cremation provider and handle all coordination on your behalf. Ashes are typically returned within one to two weeks.
Memorial Products
Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital offers a range of memorial products to help families create a lasting tribute to their companion. Options include paw print impressions, urns, shadow boxes, and keepsakes that can hold a small amount of ashes or a clipping of fur. These items are available for families who find physical remembrances comforting. Our team will discuss options with you without pressure and at whatever pace feels appropriate. There is no obligation to make any decisions at the time of your visit.
Pet Fur Preservation and Jewelry
For families who wish to keep a physical part of their pet close, we offer pet fur preservation and jewelry or showpieces that incorporate fur or ashes into a lasting keepsake. These items offer comfort to many families during the period of grief and in the years that follow. Our team handles these requests with gentleness and attention to detail, and we explain the process clearly so families know what to expect and when the item will be ready.
Aftercare Guidance
Grief after losing a pet is real, valid, and can be significant. At Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital, we do not rush families out of this experience. We provide aftercare information including resources for pet loss support groups and counselors who specialize in this kind of grief. We are also available to answer questions in the days and weeks following your pet's passing. If you have other pets in the household, we are happy to discuss how they may respond to the loss and what to watch for.
Explore More Services
This is one of the most difficult questions pet owners face, and there is no single answer. We look at quality of life: whether your pet is able to eat, move, and engage in ways that matter to them; whether they are experiencing more difficult moments than comfortable ones; and whether we have reached the limits of what can be done to maintain their comfort. Our team is here to have this conversation with you honestly and with compassion, without pressure in any direction.
Yes. We encourage family members to be present if they wish, including children when the family feels it is appropriate. We hold the appointment in a private room and give your family as much time as you need before and after. There is no rush, and our team remains available to support you throughout.
Communal cremation involves your pet being cremated alongside other pets. Ashes are not returned. Private cremation ensures your pet is cremated individually and their ashes are returned to you. The right choice depends entirely on what feels meaningful for your family. Both options are handled with equal care and dignity.
Our team is here to support your family through every part of this experience. Call Peace Arch Veterinary Hospital at (604) 536-3131 to speak with someone about end-of-life care for your pet. We are open seven days a week in South Surrey.