Here at Normanby Road Vet Clinic we will always guide you compassionately through the medical and “quality of life” aspects of your pet's condition. We know that this cannot ease the pain of loss, but helping you make an informed, humane decision will result in the best outcome for your pet.
Working out if it's time
Most owners describe this as the hardest part – not the day itself, but the uncertainty leading up to it. Vets generally look at the whole picture of a pet's day-to-day life: whether they can still eat and drink comfortably, move around without distress, respond to their favourite people and routines, and manage ordinary bodily functions with dignity. A noticeable and sustained decline across several of these, rather than one bad day, is usually the clearer signal. You don't need to work this out on your own – book a consultation and talk it through with one of our vets.
What to expect on the day
Our vets will always explain what will happen before it happens, so there are no surprises. Euthanasia is intended to be a peaceful, gentle process, and you're welcome to stay with your pet throughout if you'd like to – just let our team know your preference when you book.
Options for where and how
We do offer home visits, but these need to be discussed with reception first so we can arrange a suitable time. If your pet passes away at home unexpectedly, we're still able to offer cremation services – call us and we'll talk you through the next steps.
Supporting the rest of the family
Losing a pet affects children and other pets in the household too, in ways that aren't always obvious straight away. If you'd like guidance on how to talk with children about the loss, or whether to let other pets see or sense what's happened, ask our team – we're happy to talk this through as part of your visit.
If you have an Emergency with your pet during our closed hours please see under Services page for a list Emergency clinics in Auckland:
ARC 8 Hereford St Ponsonby 09 281 5815 or ARC 224 Albany Highway 09 281 5815
VSA 133 Central Park Dr, Henderson 09 320 5645 or Mt Wellington, Corner Hotunui Drive & Te Apunga Place, Sylvia Park, off Carbine Rd 09 320 5645
Western After Hours Vet Clinic Rosebank Rd, Avondale (09) 820 7273
North Shore Veterinary Ellis Road, Glenfield (09) 443-5640
Manukau After Hours Veterinary 15 Jack Conway Ave, Manukau (09) 277 8383
Please do not go to the emergency clinic if it is not urgent/life threatening. (Runny eyes/nose, coughing, limping, itching etc can wait until the morning to be seen by our day vet)
If you are very worried or unsure if you are dealing with an emergency about your pet after clinic hours and you are a client with us you can reach Dr Chris on his emergency phone until 10pm or again from 7am each day.
Dr Chris Laurenson - 027 544 4427
Normanby Road Vet Clinic offers a range of friendly and professional vet services for cats, dogs and other animals. From vaccinations to microchipping and even surgeries, we can help your pets remain happy and healthy. Our clinic is easily accessible from all areas of Auckland.
