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Pet loss support

End of life decisions are possibly the hardest a pet owner will ever face. Our staff is here to help you at every stage of your beloved pet's life, including during this difficult time. 


Pet Loss

Is it time?

If you're unsure about the quality of life your pet is experiencing, please call for an exam and consultation with our veterinary clinic (734) 662-4365. Regular clients can do this via telehealth.

If your animal is seriously ill or suffering, and you have decided on humane euthanasia, please know we offer humane euthanasia for your pet in your home or in our clinic, and several cremation options. So that we can ensure you have the time you need, all services are by appointment. Prices are affordable and range depending on services requested.

End-of-Life services

End-of-life care is available both in clinic and through housecall appointments. Pricing varies based on your pet’s size, location of service, and whether you choose group or private cremation. If you’re unsure which option is right for your family, our team can talk through the choices with compassion and care.

Pet / WeightIn clinicHousecall
Cat, all sizes$160$250
Dog under 40 lbs$170$260
Dog 41-80 lbs$205$295
Dog 81-100 lbs$235$325
Dog 101 lbs+$280
LocationPet / WeightGroup CremationPrivate Cremation
In ClinicCat$185$320
In ClinicDog under 40 lbs$210$425
In ClinicDog 41-80 lbs$230$535
In ClinicDog 81-100 lbs$260$610
In ClinicDog 101 lbs+$285$740
HousecallCat$285$410
HousecallDog under 40 lbs$300$515
HousecallDog 41-80 lbs$320$625
HousecallDog 81-100 lbs$350$700

Pet loss support group

HSHV and Blue Dog Counseling

While grief is a personal experience, you don’t need to face it alone. HSHV and Blue Dog Counseling provide a support group for those who are preparing for or have experienced the loss of a pet. Sessions are facilitated by Cōlleen O’Brien, founder of Blue Dog Counseling.

You do not need to have adopted from us; the group is free and open to all. Please note: We are unable to provide crisis or on-call support outside of group.

Upcoming dates

  • Thursday, October 22, 5:30-7 pm
  • Sunday, November 15, 1-2:30 pm
  • Sunday, December 20, 1-2:30 pm


Questions? Contact our Humane Educators: (734) 661-3575 or karenp@hshv.org

You can attend in-person (in HSHV’s conference room, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor) or virtually (via Zoom). To join virtually, use this 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.

In an emergency

Losing a pet can be harder than losing a human. If in immediate crisis, please go to the nearest psychiatric emergency room or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

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Pet bereavement gifts

We offer shipped gift baskets with curated items to help people heal after a beloved companion animal dies. And your purchase includes a gift to help the animals in our shelter.

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Know someone who lost a pet?

Honor their memory through a donation (with an option to send a card notifying them of your donation), a kennel sponsorship, or a brick paver that permanently lines our entrance. For questions on memorial gifts, please call (734) 661-3573 or email development@hshv.org.