What to Expect
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy. At Autumn Tails, we want to make this difficult time as gentle and stress-free as possible — for both you and your pet.
Here’s how we help you through each step.
Before the Visit
Arranging the Appointment
We’ll talk through your wishes, your pet’s needs, and answer any questions you may have. We can arrange a time that suits you, including evenings, weekends, and bank holidays — at no extra cost.
Creating a Comfortable Space
Many families choose a favourite spot — a sunny window, the sofa, the garden. It’s about being where your pet feels safe and loved.
Some prefer to use our warm, comfortable space- the Farewell Room
Support for You
We’ll explain the process beforehand so you know exactly what to expect. You can have family, friends, or other pets present if you wish.
Minimising Stress on the Day
To keep the focus entirely on your pet during the visit, we arrange payment in advance. This helps ensure the appointment itself remains calm, unhurried, and free from practical distractions.
During the Visit
A Calm Arrival
We take our time. There’s no rush — your pet sets the pace. Once everyone is settled, we’ll take care of any necessary paperwork so you can focus fully on your pet.
Gentle Sedation
A small injection helps your pet relax and drift into a peaceful sleep in your arms or close by.
In rare circumstances, sedation before euthanasia may not be appropriate, we will discuss this with you should we feel it is not in your pets best interests.
Saying Goodbye
Once they are deeply asleep, a final injection is given. This is painless, and they pass quietly and peacefully.
Time to Say Goodbye
You can spend as much time as you need with your pet afterwards.
After the Visit
Aftercare Options
Before the appointment, we will gently talk you through the aftercare choices available, so you can choose the option that feels right for you and your pet.
Gentle Goodbye is suitable if you have decided on home burial, or if you would prefer to arrange cremation and take your pet to the crematorium yourself.
If you choose Gentle Goodbye with Aftercare, we can carefully take your pet to our trusted crematorium partner, Woodlands Cottage Crematorium, after your goodbye. We can also help arrange the cremation on your behalf and, depending on your chosen cremation option, personally return your pet’s ashes to you afterwards.
Please note that our service fee does not include the cremation itself. Cremation fees are payable directly to Woodlands Cottage Crematorium.
For more information about the cremation options available, you can visit Woodlands Cottage Crematorium here:
Keepsakes
If you wish, we can arrange paw prints, fur clippings and other small memorial keepsakes for you. We do not charge extra for these, as we know how precious these memories can be.
Please be assured that your pet will be cared for with the same gentleness, respect and dignity they deserve at every stage.
