How Much Does It Cost To Put A Dog Down? Compare Your Options

No one wants to think about putting their dog to sleep, but it’s a grim decision many pet parents have to make to ease their pup’s suffering. If you’re facing this heart-wrenching reality, you likely have many questions. And unfortunately, if you’re on a tight budget, one of your concerns may be how much it costs to have your dog euthanized.

The cost of putting your dog down can vary widely, but the major price difference is where you have the procedure done. We explore all of your options to help you make the best decision for your financial situation.

Dog Euthanasia Cost: A Quick Comparison

What Does Euthanasia Involve?

For your peace of mind, it helps to understand the process of pet euthanasia so you know that it’s a peaceful way to end your pet’s suffering. The procedure involves a few steps carefully planned for a quick and painless process:

1. An initial injection just under the skin with a sedative to calm and relax your pet. It usually only takes a few minutes for your pup to relax. Sedation is important because euthanasia medications must be delivered intravenously.
2. Once your pet is sedated, an IV catheter is inserted into your pup’s vein.
3. At this point, many vets will give you a little time to say your goodbyes to your precious pup. Many also allow you to remain in the room or even hold your pup as he passes if you choose.
4. Once the combination of euthanasia medications is administered, your pup will lose consciousness within seconds before the heart stops beating. So your pet won’t be aware at all of what’s happening.

How Much Does It Cost To Euthanize A Dog?

Dog euthanasia costs vary widely depending on several factors, including where you live, where you have the procedure done, and your dog’s weight. Generally, the cost can range anywhere from $50 to $400 or more. Keep in mind you’ll also need to factor in the cost of cremation or burial.

Unfortunately, for some owners, their financial situation can be the deciding factor in where to put their dogs down. Below, we break down average euthanasia costs for all of your options. Keep in mind that the cost of living in your area usually determines where your expected costs will fall within these price ranges.

Your Vet’s Office

The average cost to euthanize a dog at a vet’s office ranges between $150-$250. A majority of pet parents have their furry family members euthanized at their regular veterinarian’s clinic. Most vets will allow you to remain with your pup throughout the procedure if you wish. Some vets may offer discounts due to financial hardship, so be sure to ask if this is your situation.

In-Home Pet Euthanasia

Is it legal to euthanize your dog at home? Yes, as long as it’s considered medically humane and you have a qualified professional perform the procedure. And if you can afford the added cost, having your pet euthanized at home can make the procedure less stressful and more comfortable for you and your beloved furry friend.

The cost of in-home pet euthanasia ranges anywhere from $250-$400. Many services charge additional fees for larger dogs, after-hours or holiday visits, and travel fees if you live outside of their specified area. Many also provide cremation for a separate fee.

So, who can perform in-home pet euthanasia? Pet euthanasia services are regulated by state laws and usually require a licensed veterinarian or a certified euthanasia technician. But typically, licensed veterinarians perform in-home euthanasia. Ask your regular veterinarian’s office if they offer this service or know of any nearby. You can also search this online directory to find veterinarians and legal services in your area.

Large-Chain Veterinary Clinics

Another slightly less expensive option for a veterinary clinic euthanasia procedure may be your local PetSmart’s Banfield Pet Hospital or Petco. You can use Banfield’s price estimator to find the cost of their euthanasia package in your area. This package, which averages $130-$140, includes euthanasia and communal cremation. You’ll have to contact your local Banfield directly to see if they offer additional options.

Humane Societies

Many local humane societies and some animal shelters offer affordable pet euthanasia for as low as $40. They’re required to use the same legal medications and processes as other veterinary professionals. However, some require you to surrender your dog.

This means you won’t be able to remain with your pet during the procedure. Contact your local humane society to see if they require surrender. Humane societies also offer low-cost cremation services, so that’s another benefit if you’re financially strapped.

Does pet insurance cover euthanasia? If you already have pet health insurance, it may cover euthanasia. Check with your provider and your particular policy to find out. Some pet insurance providers cover all or part of the cost to euthanize your pet when deemed medically necessary by your veterinarian. However, most do not cover cremation and burial expenses.

Cremation Costs

All of the options for where to put your dog down that we highlighted above also offer cremation services. Like dog euthanasia pricing, the cost for cremation varies on your location, the cremation provider, the size of your pup, and the type of cremation.

• Communal Cremation: Your dog is cremated with other pets, and you don’t receive the ashes. Pricing starts at $50 for small pets.
• Private Cremation: The facility cremates your pup individually and places his ashes in a container, which is returned to you. Pricing starts at around $125 for small pets. Crematories may charge additional fees for transport, for you to witness your pet’s cremation, special urns, etc.

If You Choose Burial Instead

If you’d rather have your pup’s body buried, the cost for a cemetery burial typically ranges from $500-$700. This cost includes the burial plot, burial process, and a standard grave marker. Can you bury your pet at home? There are no federal laws banning home pet burial, but it is illegal in some states and local jurisdictions to bury pets on private property. So, be sure to check on the laws where you live.

How Do I Know When It’s Time To Put My Dog Down?

We know from firsthand experience how difficult it can be to determine when it’s time to make the final call to end your dog’s life. If you’re struggling with this decision, be sure to read our article on the signs that it’s time to put your dog down. It can help you weigh your emotions of wanting to keep your pup around versus what’s best for your beloved pet.