Who we are.

Ever since I was accepted to veterinary school I planned to one day own my own veterinary service. I soon found there was a lot to learn, however, so I spent the first 8 years working for others. Learning the ropes as they say. I have been close to striking out on my own a number of times but never had that idea that really grabbed me. I wanted to be different, better somehow if possible. That’s a pretty tough proposition though. Today’s veterinarians are some of the most highly educated physicians in the world. They do their jobs well. For years I practiced the highest quality medicine I could. Then I finally realized that what the old timers have been telling me all along is the truth- it’s not the quality of your medicine that people are concerned with; it’s how much you care. And we all do our best. But factor in the daily bustle of a clinic and suddenly providing that care properly, especially at the end of life, can be difficult. That’s when I decided on Road to Home. To me it represents an improvement in an area of the profession that could stand some improvement. It is not glamorous, not exciting, and often terribly sad, but I felt it was important.

–Dr. Adam Carter, DVM, Owner

What we do and why we do it.

When the time comes to say goodbye to a pet, it can be an emotional time for everyone involved. The pet is also undoubtedly having a difficult time. Many of us have seen or heard about how a sick or injured pet will go off on their own when that time nears, as if they can sense the time has come.

For the family members, one or all must get up the courage to make the drive to the veterinarian. Many of us attempt to put a good face on or hold our emotions in check, which ultimately is impossible. It is also hard on the veterinarian and team who are feeling sadness for the client and pet. We understand that this is normal and ultimately healthy for someone suffering a loss but it is still uncomfortable. We at Road to Home feel that we can increase the comfort for all involved.

By allowing you to choose the location for this difficult transition, we hope first and foremost to allow the pet to remain in an environment that they are familiar with and comfortable in. The family will also be able to grieve in a more natural manner without restraint. Lastly, we take any feelings of guilt or second guessing out of the equation during this difficult time as you have already consulted with your vet or know the time has come for your pet to take another path.

How we do it.

When you call to make an appointment, we make every attempt to set up a time that is most convenient to you. Depending on existing appointments or commitments, we may have to give you a time window of 2-3 hours within which we should be able to be to your home. If you are time restricted, scheduling a couple of days in advance will make it easier to accomodate that time. After we arrive at your home, we will administer a quick acting pain reliever and sedative to your pet. The sedation can be very deep so we ask that you say goodbye before we arrive. We will then place an IV catheter, which allows for a quicker administration of the euthanasia solution. After the catheter is placed, Dr. Carter can administer the euthanasia solution at any point when you are ready.

We have partners to work with for the cremation or burial of your pet that we can discuss with you when you call.