Booking the visit: what actually happens
The phone call is the step people dread: saying it out loud makes it real. Knowing exactly how the call goes, and what to ask, makes it bearable. Here's the whole process.
Updated August 2026
The first call
You'll speak to someone who has this conversation every day and is good at it. They'll ask about your pet (species, size, condition, temperament), your suburb, timing, and aftercare preference. Then they'll quote you. Crying through the call is normal and expected; so is ringing "just to understand the options" without booking. If you can't say the words, "I think it's time for..." is enough; they'll carry it from there.
Five questions worth asking
- "What's the all-in price?" covering the visit, travel for your suburb, after-hours if relevant, and the cremation you want, as one number.
- "Do you sedate first and wait until fully asleep?" The answer should be an unhesitating yes.
- "How long do you allow for the visit?": you want to hear 45 minutes or more, unrushed.
- "What if I change my mind?". Good services say: then we don't proceed, and that's fine.
- "When would the ashes come home?": typically one to two weeks for individual cremation.
Not sure what to do next?
We'll match you with a home visit vet who covers your area and email you their introduction. Reply to it and they'll call you. There’s no cost to ask, and no obligation.
Payment, and why it happens upfront
Most services take payment at booking or before the visit starts, deliberately, so that no card machine appears after your goodbye. Treat pre-payment as the kindness it is, not a red flag. Typical costs are in the cost guide.
Preparing the house (five minutes, no more)
Choose the spot your pet loves; have a favourite blanket there; keep treats handy for the hello; put other pets where you want them; think about parking. That's the entire list. The vet brings everything else, arrives in unmarked clothes and car, and takes the day at your pace.
Common questions
How far ahead should I book?
Same-day is common when needed, but if you can plan two or three days out you'll get your pick of time, enough for family to gather and for a calm weekday-daytime price.
Can someone else make the call for me?
Absolutely. A partner, adult child or friend can book on your behalf. The vet only needs the decision-maker present on the day for the consent form.
What paperwork is involved?
One consent form, signed before anything begins. Vets complete it early precisely so nothing interrupts later.
Ready, or nearly?
Find your city's end-of-life vets and ring them, or let us match you with a home visit vet covering your suburb. We email you their introduction; reply to it and they call you.