We are here for you.
HSHV values compassion at every stage of an animal’s life. Making a choice to humanely end a life can be one of the toughest, but necessary decisions for an animal who no longer has a good quality of life. Our staff is here to help you during this difficult time.
Is it time?
If you are unsure about the quality of life your pet is experiencing, please make an appointment for an exam and consultation with our veterinary clinic – (734) 662-4365.
If your animal is seriously ill or suffering and you have reached a decision for humane euthanasia, please call (734) 662-4365 for an appointment. We offer humane euthanasia for your pet in your home or in our clinic, and several different options for cremation services. All services are by appointment only so that we can ensure we can allow you space and time for mourning. Prices are affordable and range depending on the services requested.
If you’d like to download and complete the request for euthanasia form at home and bring it with you, click here.
Pet Loss Support Group
Whether you’re struggling with end of life decisions or have lost a pet, HSHV provides a Pet Loss Support Group so that you can connect with others managing this difficult time, too. We urge you to consider attending. The group is open to the public (you do not need to have adopted from us), drop-ins are welcome, and meetings are typically held every third Sunday of the month at the Humane Society of Huron Valley conference room. The sessions are facilitated by Cōlleen O’Brien of Blue Dog Counseling. You can attend in-person or virtually (via Zoom).
Cōlleen O’Brien, founder of Blue Dog Counseling, is an expert at developing creative therapeutic interventions to support individuals, couples, families, and other groups. Her personal commitment to animal welfare, her own experience as a devoted pet owner, and a passion for supporting people led her to create Blue Dog Counseling. Cōlleen is dedicated to providing a safe, open, and creative space for discussion. A place where you can take time for yourself.
Please know that while we support all group members we are not able to provide crisis or on-call support outside of group. Whenever possible Cōlleen will work with group participants to identify additional support related to their unique needs. Group participants who are observed to be in immediate crisis will be referred to their nearest psychiatric emergency room to ensure the highest level of safety and care. Anyone in need of immediate emotional support may reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Please note that this is for anyone experiencing emotional distress. https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
Upcoming Pet Loss Support Group Dates:
- Sunday, December 22nd, 2024 1-2:30pm
- Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 5:30pm – 7pm
- Sunday, February 16th, 2025 1-2:30pm
- Sunday, March 16th, 2025 1-2:30pm
- Thursday, April 24th, 2025 5:30-7pm
- Sunday, May 18th, 2025 5:30-7pm
- Thursday, June 19th, 2025 5:30-7pm
- Sunday, July 20th, 2025 1-2:30pm
You can attend in-person (in HSHV’s conference room) or virtually (via Zoom). To join virtually, use this link: Zoom Link (you will be asked to enter your name and email address upon entering the meeting for safety purposes and the link will then be sent to your email address.)
Donations are not required, but are greatly appreciated. $10 is the suggested donation.
Questions? Please contact our Humane Education Team: (734) 661-3575 or email karenp@hshv.org
Supporting Children through Pet Loss
**In person family support groups are coming soon!**
How do you talk with your kids about losing your pet? How can you support their grieving process? Check out this article from Blue Dog Counseling and suggested books.
Know someone who lost a pet?
Pet Bereavement Gifts
Love can live on.
More ways to leave a legacy
Honor your loved one’s memory. The love you have for your pet can live on by helping other animals through a donation, kennel sponsorship or permanent paver.
Sponsorships give homeless animals the comfort they need—good food, a soft blanket, a special toy or treat—while they wait for a family of their own. You can choose a cage-free sponsorship at the Tiny Lions lounge and adoption Center, or a kennel sponsorship with a plaque and the enscription of your choice at HSHV’s shelter.
Brick pavers can be customized with your message and will be placed in our “Path of Love” that permanently lines the walkway to our shelter.
For questions on memorial gifts, please call (734) 661-3573 or email development@hshv.org.