The Costs of Losing an Animal
Ask anyone who's been through it — putting down a pet is wrenching. At some point, though, age and/or illness bring the relationship to an end and pet parents are forced to deal with the cost of their loved one’s death. The following is a rundown of the average costs and options associated with a pet's death and several ways to limit the expense.
Pet Euthanasia (free to $500+)
Euthanasia for a dog or cat involves an injection of chemicals into a vein. It is a quick and pain-free way to terminate nerve impulses and, essentially, life. Maggie Schuckman, a veterinarian with a specialty in cardiology who practices in Cincinnati, Ohio, says the cost of euthanasia services depends on the hospital (or vet) handling the procedure.
Emergency hospitals cost between $150 and $400.
Banfield Pet Hospital, which operates inside many PetSmart stores, charges around $135.
Nonprofits and humane societies offer services for free or as low as $35.
At-home euthanasia costs between $235 and $490.
Planning and settling the bill ahead of time can yield both emotional and financial savings for pet owners. First, you won't have to pay up amid a draining experience. Moreover, you'll likely have a clearer head before the procedure and will be able to scrutinize the bill.
At a minimum, expect the invoice to include charges for an IV catheter, IV sedation, and IV euthanasia solution. Some vets also charge an office-visit fee and handling of the pet's remains if you leave that task to the doctor. On average, you can expect to pay between $35 and $300, though the above at-home options vary wildly in price. Some of these services provide extras, such as a personalized clay paw print.
Pet Burial Costs (free to $200+)
According to Dr. Schuckman, there are three ways to deal with a pet's remains:
Take them home for a backyard burial for free.
Arrange for a common burial (bury or cremate with a group of animals).
Plan a private cremation and take home the remains.
Burying the pet in your yard is obviously the cheapest option because it's essentially free. But check local ordinances first; some municipalities allow it while others do not. Sacramento County's Department of Animal Care and Regulation recommends against it, as the animal could contaminate water systems.
Arranging for burial in a pet cemetery is obviously more expensive, with prices starting at about $200 and rocketing into the thousands. To ensure that your pet's remains are taken care of properly, choose a cemetery that belongs to the IAOPCC (International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories).
Pet Cremation Costs (free to $300+)
The cost of a communal cremation is also comparatively cheap, and some nonprofits even offer the service for free. Note that choosing a communal cremation means you will not get back the remains. On the other hand, private cremation is the most expensive choice, but if you feel the need for closure and can afford it, this might be the way to go.
- Communal cremation ranges from free to $100.
- Private cremation ranges from $150 to $300.
If you want more than a standard cremation box you will also pay extra for a decorative urn, which costs as little as $15 and upwards of $200.
Other Ways to Save
- If you pay for pet insurance, it may cover euthanasia and cremation. Check with your provider and see if there are any limitations.
- Contact local humane societies and nonprofits, as many offer low or no-cost euthanasia. Sugar's Gift, for example, offers free in-home euthanasia for terminally ill pets, and is available in Florida, California, Las Vegas, and in Fort Collins, Colorado.
- Ask your vet for a payment plan, so you can pay your bill over time.
Final Word
For further advice on this delicate matter, speak with your veterinarian. They will be able to help you through the thicket of decisions during a trying time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to put a cat down?
Euthanizing a cat costs between $35 to $500, though prices will vary widely depending on where you go. Nonprofits and humane societies are the most affordable, while at-home and animal hospital euthanasia can cost hundreds of dollars. Unless you plan to bury your pet at home, also expect to pay for pet burial or cremation.
How much does it cost to put a dog down?
Putting a dog to sleep also costs between $35 and $500. Again, home pet euthanasia can cost hundreds of dollars, whereas nonprofits and humane societies offer this service for a small fee, or free of charge. Burying or cremating your pet will also cost money, though you can bury your dog in your backyard — provided it’s allowed in your area.