We provide home euthanasia and cremation transportation services in the Twin Cities
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This week for Support Staff Saturday we are featuring Support Specialist Lizette and her handsome dog, Rocky Balboa!
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do with Rocky?
A: I love taking Rocky out of town to explore new places. Whether it's a new beach, a small town, or even a new restaurant, he always has a great time. He gets so much attention and affection from strangers, and he even gets special treats at every restaurant we visit.
Journeying through grief can be hard, and it's important during these times to take care of ourselves. Each journey, just like each individual, is different, and what works for someone else, may not work for you and that’s okay. Find what self-care tips work for you, and remember, you're not alone.
Grief can be raw, painful, and messy. It is important during times of grief to take care of yourself. Self-care is a crucial part of the healing process and can
“A cat is the delight of a household. All day long a comedy is played out by an incomparable actor.”
–Champfleury
With summer upon us, a touching way to honor a cherished pet who has passed away is by creating a customized garden stone. Finding solace in reminiscing about a beloved companion while witnessing the growth of a garden can be a special way to remember them.
“You don’t move on after loss, but you must move with. You must shake hands with grief, welcome her in, for she lives with you now. Pull her a chair at the table and offer her comfort. She is not the monster you first thought her to be. She is love. And she will walk with you now, stay with you now, peacefully. If you let her.
And on the days when your anger is high, remember why she came, remember who she represents. Remember. Grief came to you my friend because love came first. Love came first.” —Donna Ashworth
This week for Support Staff Saturday we'll be featuring our Support Specialist Amy and her sweet girl, Willow!
Q: What makes Willow unique or special?
A: Willow loves to chase her tail. She spins in circles chasing after it, so I put that behavior on a verbal command. We call it circle :)
"Death ends a life, not a relationship."
- Jack Lemmon
One thing that can complicate pet loss is the fact that we as pet owners are often the ones who decide when to say goodbye. While it’s a common decision that many folks face, there can be fewer guidelines and resources available to us. We’re often told “we’ll know when it’s time”, but in fact, knowing when can sometimes be very difficult and we may not know. People often agonize about whether they euthanized an animal too soon, or waited too long.
These are some of the reasons why we offer Virtual Quality of Life Consultations with a Certified Veterinary Technician. These consults are a 45-minute discussion via video call or telephone designed to support pet owners through the end-of-life decision-making process.
To learn more, visit our website or call us today.
You may be unsure about the timing of euthanasia for your dog or cat. No one wants to make this important decision either too soon or too late.
Wow! We are absolutely blown away by the amazing support and generous donations we have received towards the Buddy Fund. Because of your generosity, we will be able to help more families give their pets a dignified and peaceful passing in the comfort of their home.
We appreciate this wonderful community so much!
On August 1st, 2010, Dr. Rebecca McComas established the first exclusively in-home end-of-life practice in Minnesota. Since then, the MN Pets team has grown into a wonderful team of dedicated veterinary professionals who share a common interest in supporting people and their pets through end-of-life experiences.
Today, on our 14th anniversary, we would like to invite those that are able to donate to our Buddy Fund. The MN Pets Buddy Fund provides financial assistance for pet owners facing end-of-life care, but who are unable to afford the services that we provide. If you wish to help support a pet owner in need, you can fill out the donation form below to make an online payment. If you prefer to mail a check, you can mail it to MN Pets, 5155 East River Rd, Ste 412, Fridley, MN 55421.
https://www.mnpets.com/buddyfund
We are honored to serve our wonderful community. We appreciate the love and support you have shown us these past 14 years 💜
On August 1st, 2010, Dr. Rebecca McComas established the first exclusively in-home end-of-life practice in Minnesota. Since then, the MN Pets team has grown into a wonderful team of dedicated veterinary professionals who share a common interest in supporting people and their pets through end-of-life experiences.
Today, on our 14th anniversary, we would like to invite those that are able to donate to our Buddy Fund. The MN Pets Buddy Fund provides financial assistance for pet owners facing end-of-life care, but who are unable to afford the services that we provide. If you wish to help support a pet owner in need, you can fill out the donation form below to make an online payment. If you prefer to mail a check, you can mail it to MN Pets, 5155 East River Rd, Ste 412, Fridley, MN 55421.
https://www.mnpets.com/buddyfund
We are honored to serve our wonderful community. We appreciate the love and support you have shown us these past 14 years 💜
"Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail."-Kinky Friedman
This week for Support Staff Saturday we have Rylee and her adorable dog, Toast!
Q: Do you have a fun story about how you got your pet?
A: I was out of town on vacation and found him while I was scrolling through social media and knew right then and there he was the pup for me. As I was out of town I Facetimed my brother and had him go over to the family that day to pick him up. I met him in person when I returned home that night.
A bubble release ceremony with friends and loved ones can provide a touching opportunity to pay tribute to and honor a beloved pet.
“A cat is in the animal world what a rosebud is in the garden.”
– Robert Southey
If you've never been through a pet euthanasia before, it can be overwhelming to know what to expect. We offer a Frequently Asked Questions page that can provide you with more information. Many people find it helpful to read through this page to prepare for the appointment. Please click the link below for more information:
https://www.mnpets.com/faqs-questions
"Grief is in two parts. The first is loss. The second is the remaking of life." -- Anne Roiphe
This week for Support Staff Saturday we have Hether, who is not only a support specialist for MN Pets, but an aftercare specialist as well. Featured with Hether is her sweet dog, Violet!
Q: What makes Violet special?
A: Violet is a "supermutt" rescue dog that is originally from Magnolia, AR. She is literally my best friend and just the best companion. She is my constant shadow, and is just happy to be along for the ride - whatever we are doing! She is a rescue dog, so she can be a little fearful of new situations - but once she gets to know you, she is your friend for life (especially if you agree to throw her ball for her)! She is a very smart and intuitive dog, and she has a pretty big vocabulary of words she understands - plus, she gives THE BEST hugs. This year will be our 10th year together, and her 10th birthday - so we are planning to celebrate big time!
“Of all the things God created, from sunrises and rainbows, to black holes and humor, cats are the most fascinating to me.” -Jarod Kintz
The passing of a pet can be especially challenging for children. The closer the bond between the child and the pet, the more the child may grieve after the loss. This coloring book for kids will help them express their feelings about the pet’s death and learn about both the joy–and the pain–that comes with having a beloved animal companion. Our MN Pets doctors bring along coloring books to offer to families with young children. If you believe it could be helpful for a young child in your household, please don't hesitate to ask about them during your appointment.
“Death is that state in which one exists only in the memory of others, which is why it is not an end. No goodbyes, just good memories.”
— Denise Crosby
We recently received a lovely note from Stella's mom, who recently had a visit with Dr. Kelly. With permission, we are sharing these photos of sweet Stella, on the day they first met her, and on the day they said goodbye.
"Hi Dr Kelly. Here are photos of Stella on the Tuesday we got her, and the day we let her go! My sister may need euthanasia in the near future for one of her rescue toy poodles Randy. You were so wonderful and we appreciate your warmth and candor on this very difficult day."
“A happy arrangement: many people prefer cats to other people, and many cats prefer people to other cats.”
– Mason Cooley
This week for Support Staff Saturday we have support specialist Kayla, and her dapper dog, Pilsner!
Q: Do you have a fun story about how you got your pet?
A: Pilsner fell under my care when I was working as a foster coordinator at an animal rescue. He was a tiny baby brought in with a litter of pups from Utah to LA. I fostered him while he was sick and my family fell in love! Pilsner is still very shy of the outside world, but once he loves someone he won't leave their side. He enjoys bowties and is always rocking one!
Sometimes family members are concerned that other pets in the household may distract from the experience (getting in the way or being too energetic) or that the death of a companion may possibly be upsetting for other pets to witness. After being present for countless euthanasia visits where other pets have been in attendance, our experience is very much the opposite. The process is very gentle and peaceful and being present allows other pets to be aware of what happens to their friend. Of course, the decision is always up to the family. Each family knows their pets best. Additionally, if a family has a pet who is very energetic, and if they are afraid that their pet may try to be too involved in the process or get in the way, it is perfectly fine if they feel the pet should hang out elsewhere during the majority of the visit. If a family decides for any reason not to have their other pets present, we would recommend they allow their other pet to see their pet’s body after the pet has passed. By being able to see and sniff their friend, they are able to understand what has happened and have closure, and not be left wondering where their friend has gone.
"I want to work like a dog, doing what I was born to do with joy and purpose. I want to play like a dog, with total, jolly abandon." -Oprah Winfrey
One surprising way to cope with grief is through music. This article delves into how music can help in processing the loss of a loved one.
https://pathwayshealth.org/the-benefits-of-music-for-grief/ #:~:text=It%20allows%20us%20to%20tap,know%20what%20to%20do%20with
There is a certain amount of guilt or shame associated with grieving the loss of an animal because some believe "it's just a pet." Please remember it's okay to grieve and you are entitled to take as much time as you need. We know that your pet was not "just a pet." If you feel like you need some extra support, we are just a phone call away.
We recently received a message from Kona's owners, and we couldn't be more touched by their kind words. We're grateful to have been a part of Kona's journey and to have provided comfort during a difficult time. With permission, we wanted to share their experience and kind words.
"Last week my fiancé and I found out our amazing three year old dog, Kona, was diagnosed with acute leukemia. The U of M veterinary hospital recommended MN Pets as an in home option. The first call I had with the MN Pets team to get information was the worst call of my life and I could barely get a word out but the employee on the other end was so patient and kind. Unfortunately by Sunday he was in too much discomfort to keep going and we needed to schedule it. They were able to accommodate a same day appointment with Dr. Rebecca Tollefson. She is most kind hearted and gentle person. She gave us clear expectations for everything that would happen and always allowed us to take the time we needed. Even our other dog who is reactive immediately wanted to curl up with her on the couch. She truly gave us the best gift for our baby, the comfort to pass on in his favorite place, surrounded by people who loved him. She even made a memorial paw print plaque with clay and gave us a hand painted rock with his name. I cannot thank her and MN Pets enough for this and I would recommend them to anyone in going through this."
This week for Support Staff Saturday we have Sam, and her extremely handsome Bernese Mountain Dog, Bourne!
Q: Do you have a favorite memory with Bourne?
A: Visiting the Washington coast with him for the first time. This picture was taken on Whidbey Island. Bourne's favorite activity is hiking, and he loves, loves, loves squeaky balls (I can't stress that enough).
Minneapolis, MN
| Monday | 6am - 7pm |
| Tuesday | 6am - 7pm |
| Wednesday | 6am - 7pm |
| Thursday | 6am - 7pm |
| Friday | 6am - 7pm |
| Saturday | 6am - 5pm |
| Sunday | 6am - 5pm |
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MN Pets has joined the TikTok community ❤ Follow along as we share pet loss stories, memorial ideas, and ways to heal.
Here is the full interview with our Vice President, Kristi Lehman, on Minnesota Live. Thank you so much to those that were able to tune in live and for the support you've all shown us today, as well as the support you've all shown us over the last 12 years.
We love our pets. They’re members of our family. That’s why we find it so difficult when it’s time to say goodbye.
Over the last year, MN Pets has been fortunate enough to add many new Associate Veterinarians, Aftercare Specialists, and Support Specialists to our amazing team. The next few weeks, we will be introducing you to our newest team members, as well as reintroducing you to some familiar faces that have been part of our team for many years. We also want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for the constant love and support you show us here, as well as the support you show each other. We appreciate each and every one of you.
MN Pets is an in-home euthanasia service that operates in and around the Twin Cities and Duluth-Twin Ports area. Our doctors travel to families’ homes to help give a gentle goodbye to their beloved furry family members.
Several years ago, our founder, Dr. Rebecca McComas, recognized the importance of home euthanasia for her family’s two elderly beagles. Having only experienced saying goodbye to a beloved pet in a clinical setting, she was struck by how different it felt to be at home. It seemed natural to bring this much-needed service to other pet owners, and so she started MN Pets in 2010, the first exclusively in-home euthanasia practice in Minnesota.
Since then, the team at MN Pets has grown to include other highly qualified veterinary professionals who share a common interest in supporting people and their pets through end of life care. Each of our doctors and support professionals have a similar understanding and appreciation for the bond you share with your pet, and the benefits of saying goodbye at home.
We believe that pets deserve a gentle hand and voice, and people need compassion and support as they go through this difficult experience.
The Buddy Fund
We have a fund in place, called the Buddy Fund, which helps us offer a little bit of assistance to families who are in need of our services but have fallen on hard times. Their pets are also deserving of a peaceful goodbye at home, surrounded by love, and we are so grateful when we are able to help make that happen. If you would like to donate to our Buddy Fund, to help these families give their beloved pets that peaceful goodbye, follow the link below. https://www.mnpets.com/buddyfund
Minnesota Spay Neuter Assistance Program
Washington Avenue N
