Hamilton-Niagara Veterinary Mobile Euthanasia Service

16/12/2025

🌈🐾💙 In Loving Memory 💙🐾🌈

💙💙💙 Elfie 💙💙💙

💙 September 2010 - November 19, 2025 💙

Elfie came into our lives as a tiny three-month old Christmas surprise in 2010, a gift for our eight-year-old daughter Sophie that became a blessing for our entire family. From the moment Sophie first held Elfie, her joy bursting brighter than the tree lights, he became her constant companion.
Their bond was immediate, deep, and unbreakable.

Elfie grew up surrounded by love from all corners of the family, including Sophie, my husband Greg, Papa, Grandma, and Auntie Cathy (my parents and sister). Everyone doted on him, welcoming him into their homes with visits and sleepovers. He soaked up every cuddle from Sophie, Greg, and me, always happiest when close to those who adored him the most.

He lived a full life where he was mischievous in his younger years, especially when the front door cracked open. Off Elfie would go, convinced that the neighbourhood was his personal playground while we scrambled behind him attempting to catch him but also laughing. At dinnertime, Elfie became the world’s most persistent beggar, pleading for bites that we are quite sure Papa started sneaking to him first.

Throughout Elfie’s life, Elfie was our comfort when any of us were ill, hurting, or simply overwhelmed. He always seemed to know when we needed him most.
So, at the end of his life when his health declined so quickly, we held him close just as he had done for us so many times before. Letting him go was one of the most difficult decisions we have ever faced. Our hearts wavered again and again, torn between wanting more time with him and knowing deep down that he was suffering and ready for peace.

Love guided us to do what was right for Elfie even though it broke us. The days following his passing were filled with tears, silence, and sharing memories of Elfie. Sophie created a beautiful video and photo album of Elfie, and I had a portrait created that now hangs in our home. Though nearly three weeks have passed, the ache still lingers.
We miss him deeply.

We take solace in knowing that Elfie is no longer in pain. He is free, peaceful, and carried endlessly in our hearts. Time will help with our grief, but we know we will never forget our sweet Elfie – our companion, our comfort, our joy for fifteen beautiful years.

Run free sweet Elfie!
You were loved beyond measure, and you will always be ours.

xoxo

Submitted by Lisa Maychak

🌈🐾💙🌈🐾💙🌈🐾💙🌈🐾💙🌈🐾💙🌈🐾💙

15/12/2025

08/12/2025

~Talking to Kids About Pet Loss During the Holidays~

The holidays can make saying goodbye even harder—especially for children.
Each age grieves differently:
🐾 Toddlers – Keep it simple and honest.
🐾 Kids – Avoid phrases like “put to sleep.”
🐾 Teens – Give space, but stay present.
Learn how to support through visiting this blog article on our website:
👉 https://pehn.ca/2025/04/21/2025-04-a-parents-guide-to-helping-children-understand-pet-loss/

28/11/2025

Grief After Pet Loss is Real 💙 You're not alone. Support groups and counseling resources are available to help you through this heartbreaking time.

🔗 Pet loss support resources in Canada: https://www.pet-loss.net/resources/Canada.shtml

We're here for you. Visit our website in our bio for more resources. 🐾

19/11/2025

"How will I know?" is one of the most difficult questions pet owners face.

The HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale can help you assess your pet's wellbeing across seven areas: Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, and More Good Days than Bad. Each is scored 1-10, with scores above 35 indicating acceptable quality of life.

Important: Before making decisions, consult your veterinarian. Many conditions that seem hopeless—like incontinence or mobility issues—can actually be treated or managed.

📖 Read the full article for guidance on assessing quality of life and what to expect: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951966

We're here to support you through this journey. 🐾

16/10/2025

🏠 Calling all pet parents! There's a community dedicated to helping YOUR pets thrive!

Fear Free Happy Homes isn't just another pet website - it's a trusted resource created by the same experts behind the Fear Free movement that's revolutionizing how veterinary and pet care professionals approach animal wellbeing.

When you visit fearfreehappyhomes.com, you get:
🎥 Expert videos with practical tips
📖 Professionally reviewed articles
📋 Free downloadable resources
💰 Special discounts on pet essentials

Plus, you can find Fear Free Certified professionals in your area who truly understand how to care for pets with compassion and expertise.

Your pets deserve care that considers their emotional needs too!

10/10/2025

💔 Saying goodbye to our beloved pets is one of the hardest things we'll ever do.

If you're facing this difficult decision, this article offers gentle guidance on how to make your pet's final moments as peaceful and stress-free as possible.

https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com/fear-free-euthanasia-how-to-say-goodbye-peacefully/

🌈

02/10/2025

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest decisions a pet owner can face, but ensuring your pet’s comfort and dignity is the most loving thing you can do. Understanding the quality of life can help you make a compassionate choice when the time comes. If you’re unsure, consult your vet for guidance.

23/09/2025

🏠 Your dog has arthritis - now what?

Good news: You can make a HUGE difference! Many of the most effective treatments are simple, low-cost changes you can make at home.

Every dog responds differently, so there may be some trial and error - but you'll find what works. From environmental modifications to daily routine adjustments, small owner-led changes often have the biggest impact on comfort and mobility.

Ready to learn what you can do today?
👉 caninearthritis.co.uk/managing-arthritis/what-can-be-done

15/09/2025

🐕 80% of dogs over 8 have arthritis - but many suffer silently.

Dogs are masters at hiding pain. That's why we recommend Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) - a FREE, vet-led resource with everything you need to know about canine arthritis.

From 10 educational videos on spotting early signs to evidence-based pain management guidance and expert advice from veterinary professionals, this comprehensive resource covers it all.

Early recognition = better quality of life for your dog.

Learn more: caninearthritis.co.uk

10/09/2025

🌈💙🐾 In Loving Memory 🐾💙🌈

💙💙💙 Carson 💙💙💙

Carson brought lots of joy & life from the moment we brought you into our home over twelve and half years ago. He came into our lives at the right time and for our first dog we chose to rescue a stray, without knowing much knowledge, but oh so many adventures we would share.

He was energetic, loving, smart, stubborn, and carefree. He thoroughly enjoyed his walks that he would wait everyday, and knew the moment when he heard the little jingle sound of his leash he would come running to the door.

He was so spoiled that the sound of the fridge or opening of a bag would show up by our side within seconds. The concept of time he knew very well since he would wait at the window or outside on the porch knowing when someone was coming home.

His favourite food was pizza since the day he stole some from us haha. The outdoors was his favourite place to be whether he was laying outside watching the neighbourhood or in the backyard listening (or sometimes chasing) the wildlife. He was loved by so many and always got complimented by his good looks and friendliness.

Thank you Carson for not only choosing us but fully trusting us to welcome you into our family, and doing our utmost best to provide you with unconditional love and care. Love comes both ways since you also took great care of us. You are the best part of our story. We love you and you will be forever missed. Until we meet again.

A special thank you to Dr. Monique and Dr. Ronderson for your wonderful care, empathy, support, and making this goodbye so special. Because of you both Carson was able to be safe and comfortable while peacefully laying to rest.

🌈💙🐾🌈💙🐾🌈💙🐾🌈💙🐾🌈💙🐾🌈💙🐾