Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the most difficult experiences a family goes through. At Norgate Animal Hospital in North Vancouver, we approach end-of-life care with the care, dignity, and compassion your pet and your family deserve. Our goal is to make this time as peaceful and supported as possible, in whatever setting feels right for you. We are here to answer your questions, talk through the options at your own pace, and make sure your pet is comfortable and at ease throughout.
We provide a quiet, private space within the clinic for families who choose in-clinic care for their pet. We take our time with every appointment, allowing you and your family to be present and saying goodbye without feeling rushed. You are welcome to bring a favourite blanket or toy, and we ask at the start of the appointment whether there is anything we can do to make the experience more comfortable for your family. Our team has supported many families through this process and understands how much your pet means to you.
For families who prefer their pet to pass in a familiar, comfortable environment surrounded by the people they love, in-home end-of-life care is available. Pets often feel more settled in their own space, away from unfamiliar smells and surroundings. We come to you and provide the same gentle, unhurried care in your home. We ask only that the space be calm and that the pet's favourite spot, whether that is their bed, the couch, or wherever they feel most at ease, be available for the appointment.
Following your pet's passing, we offer communal cremation and private cremation to suit your family's preferences. With communal cremation, pets are cremated together and the ashes are not returned to individual families, but are handled with respect and care. Private cremation ensures your pet is cremated individually, with their ashes returned to you in an urn of your choice from our selection. We carry a range of urns and memorial containers at different price points. We manage all aftercare arrangements directly, so you do not need to coordinate with external providers during what is already a difficult time.
We offer keepsake options including paw print impressions, urns, shadow boxes, and pet fur preservation for families who wish to have a lasting memento of their pet. We also provide guidance on what to expect in the days following your pet's passing and can discuss options for supporting children and other pets in the household through the grieving process. If you have questions at any stage, before, during, or after the appointment, our team is available to speak with you.
Our team is here to support you through every stage of your pet's life, including the last. Call Norgate Animal Hospital at (604) 980-2222 to speak with a member of our team, or book an appointment when you are ready. You do not have to navigate this alone.
