If you're reading this while preparing for your pet's final days — we're sorry. This guide is written to help you feel prepared and at peace, not overwhelmed. You don't have to figure everything out today. Take it one step at a time.
What is in-home pet euthanasia?
In-home euthanasia means a licensed veterinarian comes to your home to help your pet pass peacefully. Your pet stays in their familiar environment — their bed, their favorite spot, surrounded by family — rather than in a clinical setting.
The process involves two injections. First, a sedative that puts your pet into a deep, pain-free sleep within a few minutes. Then a second injection that gently stops the heart. Most pets pass within seconds of the second injection. It is peaceful, and it does not look frightening.
You can be present — most families are. You can hold your pet, talk to them, play their favorite music. The vet will guide you through what to expect so there are no surprises.
Is in-home euthanasia legal in Florida?
Yes. In-home euthanasia is legal and widely practiced in Florida. Any licensed Florida veterinarian can perform euthanasia at your home. Several services specialize exclusively in at-home end-of-life care and serve most of the state. You do not need to go to a clinic.
In-home euthanasia services in Florida
These services specialize in at-home end-of-life care and cover broad areas of Florida.
Lap of Love
Visit website →Statewide — Tampa, Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, and more
One of the largest in-home euthanasia networks in the U.S. Hospice consultations and euthanasia services. Also offers grief support resources.
CodaPet
Visit website →Major Florida metros
At-home euthanasia network connecting families with local vets. Book online within 24–48 hours in most Florida cities.
Gentle Journey
Central and South Florida
Specializes in peaceful at-home euthanasia with grief support follow-up. Serves the greater Orlando and Tampa Bay areas.
Your own vet may also offer home visits — it's always worth asking even if it's not advertised.
What does it cost?
In-home euthanasia involves two separate costs: the veterinary visit and aftercare (cremation or burial). These are almost always arranged and paid separately.
Veterinary visit (euthanasia)
- Standard hours$250–$450
- Evening / weekend$350–$600
- Travel fee (remote areas)$25–$75 extra
Cremation (arranged separately)
- Communal cremation$100–$200
- Private cremation$175–$600+
- Home pickup by crematory$50–$150 extra
Ranges are estimates for Florida. Costs vary by provider, pet weight, and region.
Arranging cremation after in-home euthanasia — step by step
Decide on cremation before the appointment
It helps to choose a cremation provider before the euthanasia appointment — not after. You'll already be grieving. Research providers, confirm pricing, and have their number ready. You don't need to pay in advance.
Tell the mobile vet your plan
Let the vet know you're arranging cremation separately. They will not take your pet unless you ask them to. If you want the vet to transport your pet to their partner, tell them. If you want to handle it yourself, say so — they'll leave your pet with you.
Take time to say goodbye
There is no rush. You can keep your pet at home for several hours after passing. Wrap them in a blanket, keep them in a cool room or on ice packs if you need more than a few hours. Most cremation providers will work with your timeline.
Call your cremation provider
Call to schedule pickup when you're ready. Most Florida providers offer next-day or same-day home pickup. Give them your address, your pet's approximate weight, and the cremation type you've chosen.
Receive your pet's ashes
Most Florida providers return ashes within 3–10 business days. Ashes arrive in a sealed bag inside a basic container. You can transfer them to an urn, scatter them, or arrange other memorials at your own pace.
You are not required to use the mobile vet's cremation partner
Many in-home euthanasia services have cremation partners they recommend or include in a package price. These can be convenient — but they may not be the most affordable or the best fit for your family.
You can always choose your own cremation provider. Just tell the vet before or during the appointment that you'll be arranging cremation separately. They will leave your pet with you for pickup by your chosen provider. Use our directory to compare Florida providers in your area.
Compare Florida cremation providers →After the appointment — things to keep in mind
Your other pets may grieve too
Animals in the home often notice the absence of a companion. Some become quieter or search for their friend. Giving them extra attention and keeping their routine helps. It is okay to let other pets say goodbye before the vet leaves — many families do.
There is no timeline for grief
Grief after losing a pet is real and valid. You may feel fine one day and devastated the next. If you need support, the Florida Pets Aftercare grief support page has resources including free hotlines.
You can take as much time as you need
There is no rush on any decision — urn, memorial, ashes. Some families decide months later. Your pet's ashes will keep safely in a sealed container. Nothing needs to be decided today.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have my pet euthanized at home in Florida?+
Yes — in-home euthanasia is legal and widely available in Florida through services like Lap of Love, CodaPet, and many local mobile vets.
How much does in-home euthanasia cost in Florida?+
Typically $250–$450 during standard hours. Evening, weekend, or remote visits may cost more. Cremation is priced separately.
What happens to my pet's body afterward?+
You can have the mobile vet transport your pet to their cremation partner, arrange your own cremation provider for home pickup, or transport your pet yourself.
Do I have to use the mobile vet's cremation service?+
No. Tell the vet before the appointment that you'll arrange cremation separately — they'll leave your pet with you.
How long can I keep my pet at home after euthanasia?+
Most families arrange pickup within 12–24 hours. Keep your pet in a cool room or on ice packs if you need more time. Cremation providers are used to working around family timelines.
Where can I find grief support in Florida?+
Our grief support page has vetted resources including the Iowa State Pet Loss Hotline (free), UF Veterinary Hospitals, and the Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement.
Find cremation providers near you
Need someone to talk to?
Free pet loss support hotlines and Florida-specific grief resources.