The Transit Lounge

"In my wildest dreams I never knew love as big as this"
Kirsty Pilkington

Supporting you before, during and after the loss of your beloved pet.

My intention as an end of life pet doula is to walk beside you in a very similar way as with humans. To support you and your pet as you journey towards their end of life, so you are able to spend those last special days or weeks with your beloved companion. To support you in maintaining the dignity, love and respect  your pets so deserve. I understand and know how difficult this can be and have walked this path many times in my life with various animals.

My animals have always been integral members of my family, and I have experienced significant grief upon their deaths. The loss of a cherished animal can be often minimized as something one should quickly overcome, yet it remains a complex form of grief within human society. Disenfranchised grief, as it is known, is often not acknowledged publicly and is known as “hidden grief or sorrow”.

Decisions about end of life for pets can be complicated, particularly when deciding the “right time” if euthanasia is a possibility . There are many overwhelming emotions that accompany this decision and it is ultimately your decision, with veterinary medical advice, guidance and compassionate understanding from your vet.

Receiving a life-limiting diagnosis for a pet can feel overwhelming, regardless of their age. Additional concerns often arise, such as expenses, ongoing treatments, medications and more frequent trips to the vet.
For those living in regional or rural areas, travelling longer distances to reach a veterinarian or specialised care can make these challenges even greater.

Below is an overview of my services:

  • Personalised non-medical support in collaboration with you and your vet
  • Guidance on end-of-life planning for pets with terminal illness or age related decline
  • Emotional and practical support before, during and after your pets death
  • Legacy, ritual and memorial ideas for your pet’s end-of-life journey
  • Support for family members, including children during this time
  • Assistance with choices regarding euthanasia, cremation or burial
  • Accompaniment to veterinary appointments if required
  • Presence at your pets euthanasia in your home, at the vet clinic and /or in an establishment where your animal is kept.
  • After-death care at home and access to resources
  • Pick up and transport to and from vet practice for you and your pet
  • Collection and delivery of your pets ashes if requested
 
** Clinical assessment, treatment and medical guidance always remains with the veterinary team. I offer non-medical information and support, not clinical advice or bereavement counselling. Referral to appropriate professionals is offered when needed.
 

fees according to service

 

euthanasia

  • Presence and support immediately before, during and after and animal’s euthanasia procedure is a 2 x hour minimum fee at $160 and $70 per hour thereafter if required.
  • Payment is required at the time of the appointment and is completely separate to the veterinary bill.

all other services

  • $80.00 per hour.
  • Packages are available and based on individual needs and requirements.
  • Packages require a 50% deposit.

Payment is via cash, credit/debit card or direct bank transfer.

Invoices and receipts are sent via email.

*  Complimentary 20 minute phone consultation to see if I am the right person to support you and your pet.