A gentle goodbye, step by step
Everything is designed so that on the day, there's nothing left to do but be together.
1 · Reach out — we make scheduling easy
Book online, or call or text us — whichever feels easiest. We manage
the scheduling so you don't have to think about logistics.
Not sure it's time? A complimentary 10-minute phone consult with our doctor is included once you're scheduled — or call us to book a consult first. Our experienced staff can also walk through a quality-of-
life assessment with you.
2 · We take care of the paperwork
Everything is handled before the appointment, so the day itself is only about your pet. This is when you'll choose your aftercare and can add keepsakes like paw prints or nose prints.
See Aftercare options for what's included.
3 · The day of your appointment
You'll get a reminder in the morning, along with your consent form — it's short, mostly pre-filled, and legally has to be signed the same day. Because everything's done in advance, when the doctor arrives you
simply get to be present.
The doctor gently walks you through what will happen, answers every question, and — if your pet is comfortable with it — does a brief exam. If an exam would stress your pet, she simply won't. If you've chosen a ceremony or ceremonial add-ons, this is where it begins.
The first injection is a gentle sedative into the muscle. We don't place IV catheters the way many practices do — being held down for one can be stressful and uncomfortable, and this day should be free of both. Some pets react briefly to the injection; it passes in moments.
Then your pet drifts to sleep — in your arms, if that's where they're happiest. The doctor works around you, never between you.
Only when your pet is completely asleep does the doctor give the final injection. She'll listen to their heart, and let you know when they've passed.
You'll have a moment to say goodbye before the doctor gently carries your pet away — or, if you wish, you can bring your pet to the aftercare facility yourself.*
4 · Aftercare, with time built in
Your pet is transported and held safely and lovingly at our aftercare facility. Nothing begins for 72 hours — so there's always time to add a paw print, nose print, or other keepsake if you change your mind. Afterward, your pet is laid to rest through gentle water cremation (what is that?).
5 · Welcoming them home
When everything is ready, you'll pick up your pet's ashes — returned in our curated Honor Box if you chose individual aquamation. We'll let you know the moment they're ready.
6 · We're here, after
The days after a goodbye can be the hardest part. Call any time. We're glad to share grief resources, and a 10-minute conversation with our doctor after your pet's passing is always included.
* Some families prefer to accompany their pet to the very last moment — bringing them to our aftercare facility themselves, and seeing the beautiful, kind place where their pet will be cared for. We love when families choose this. The doctor will help you prepare, and we'll provide a blanket for the journey. The facility is located at 717 Mateo St, Los Angeles. Just let us know on your intake form or give us a call.
Eden Veterinary
For heartfelt goodbyes. Eden is home. Home is love. Love is medicine.
(424) 272-0345 • [email protected]
Open 9AM - 4PM (24hrs availability)
1653 7th St #901 Santa Monica, CA 90401
(Mailing Address)
Emergency Note
For urgent medical emergencies requiring immediate intervention like trouble breathing, collapse, uncontrolled bleeding, seizures, severe pain, or anything that feels urgent, please go directly to a local 24/7 emergency hospital. If you're not near Los Angeles, search "24/7 emergency vet near me" or call the closest hospital for help locating the nearest emergency facility.
Below are some options for emergency hospitals. We recommend finding your nearest local emergency hospital.
Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG) - 2700 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403 - (424)-538-4535
VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital - 1900 S. Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90025 - (310)-473-2951
Metropolitan Animal Specialty Hospital (MASH) - 6565 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038 - (855)-350-738