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End of Life Care

Gentle in-clinic euthanasia, cremation services, and heartfelt memorials for dogs and cats in Gilford, NH. Compassionate support from Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic.
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End-of-Life Pet Care in Gilford, NH – Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy. It’s a deeply personal, emotional experience, and one that deserves to be handled with gentleness and respect. Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic offers compassionate end-of-life care for dogs and cats throughout the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, including in-clinic euthanasia, cremation services, and meaningful memorial keepsakes like paw and nose prints.

We’re here to support both pets and their families through these difficult moments, honoring the bond you’ve built over a lifetime.

Gentle In-Clinic Euthanasia

When the time comes, families are given the time, space, and emotional support needed to say goodbye peacefully. Our in-clinic euthanasia service is designed to be calm and dignified. A quiet room, soft lighting, and a kind, familiar team help ensure your pet’s final moments are filled with love and comfort.

We take the time to walk you through every step, answer your questions, and provide space for your personal goodbyes. Every pet is treated with the same care we’d want for our own companions.

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End of Life Care
Cremation Services with Dignity

Cremation Services with Dignity

Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic coordinates respectful cremation services to honor your pet’s memory. We offer both private and communal cremation options, depending on your wishes. Each pet is handled with great care and consideration throughout the process.

If you choose private cremation, your pet’s ashes can be returned in a memorial urn. Our team is here to help you navigate these decisions gently, offering guidance without pressure.

Complimentary Paw and Nose Prints

A lasting memory of your pet’s life is important for many families. That’s why we provide complimentary ink paw and nose prints with every end-of-life service. These keepsakes offer a tangible reminder of your pet’s unique presence and are a small way we can honor the bond you shared.

Support Through the Grieving Process

The grieving process doesn’t end when you leave our clinic. For many, the loss of a pet feels as significant as the loss of any family member. We’re always here to answer questions, offer comfort, and provide recommendations for grief resources in the Lakes Region.

Whether you need help explaining the loss to young children, connecting with a pet loss support group, or simply someone to talk to—our team is here to listen.

Knowing When It's Time

Deciding when to say goodbye is one of the hardest parts of pet ownership. We offer compassionate quality-of-life assessments to help guide your decision, considering your pet’s comfort, mobility, and overall happiness.

Our role is to provide honest, informed support—not to push or persuade. You’ll never face this decision alone. We believe in helping families make choices based on love, dignity, and thoughtful communication.

Serving the Lakes Region with Heart

Locally owned and deeply connected to the Lakes Region community, Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic serves pet owners from Gilford, Laconia, Meredith, and beyond. Our clinic reflects the values of the region—neighborly, respectful, and grounded in genuine care.

Many families know us not just as their veterinary team, but as neighbors. From Squam Lake to the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, we’re here to walk with you through all stages of your pet’s life.

Learn More About Our End-of-Life Care Services

If you’re considering end-of-life care for your pet,  Birch Bark Veterinary Clinic invites you to reach out with any questions or concerns. Whether you’re looking for immediate support or simply starting the conversation, our team is here to listen, offer guidance, and provide a compassionate path forward.

Call us at (603) 524-8900 to schedule an appointment. We’re committed to ensuring your pet’s final moments are peaceful, respectful, and filled with love.

Frequently Asked Question
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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About End-of-Life Care

Your pet is gently sedated to help them relax, followed by a peaceful and painless final injection. The process is quick and allows you to remain by your pet’s side throughout.

Absolutely. We encourage pet owners to be present if they feel comfortable. It’s a quiet, private moment, and many families find comfort in being close during their pet’s final breath.

Yes. We offer both communal and private cremation through trusted providers. If you choose private cremation, we will return your pet’s ashes in a respectful container or memorial urn.

Currently, all euthanasia services are performed at our Gilford clinic. Our in-clinic setting is designed to be peaceful and comforting.

It’s never an easy decision. Our veterinarians can perform a quality-of-life assessment and help you evaluate signs like chronic pain, lack of mobility, appetite loss, and overall happiness.