ABOUT RVS
Roberts Veterinary Services (RVS) was founded in March of 2021, by Dr. Jeanette Roberts, in order to provide safe, compassionate and peaceful in-home euthanasia for families in St. Clair County and surrounding areas. She does not provide regular veterinary service in order to be available as much as possible for sudden changes in pets health, requiring rapid scheduling of euthanasia.
Dr. Roberts is honored to give your family the opportunity to say goodbye to your beloved family member at home. She understands the grief and loss involved with this decision and the deep sorrow involved in the entire process. Dr. Roberts became interested in IHE (In home euthanasia) after a combination of many events throughout her career that showed her the importance of the human animal bond, the connected spiritual nature of animals, and the comfort and ease of experiencing this all in the home environment. At home, there is the best chance for processing all of the complex emotions involved, and your pet feeling the full support of their family without distraction.
Dr. Roberts is available to help answer any questions you have so you feel comfortable with your decisions, whatever they may be.
ABOUT DR. ROBERTS
Dr. Roberts graduated from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in June 2003. She immediately moved to Michigan to begin her career in Clinton Township, until moving to the Port Huron area in 2005. She has contributed to the profession in almost every way possible throughout her career, including research, teaching, small and large animal medicine and surgery, house calls, Eastern medicine/acupuncture, and telemedicine. She loves the passion and science of veterinary medicine, as well as the ability to think and problem solve in nonconventional terms.
Dr. Roberts has always loved her clients and students as much as her patients. Her goal is to continue making a positive impact within the profession, as well as every professional encounter. Dr. Roberts has 3 human children and 2 golden retrievers - Henson and Dougie.
EUTHANASIA PROCESS
Dr. Roberts understands the powerful emotions you may experience throughout this process. You are welcome to discuss any concerns leading up to the appointment via phone call or text, at any time.
The appointment will begin with an introduction, and the pet owner will be required to fill out brief medical paperwork, including an authorization signature by the legal owner or authorized representative, for the euthanasia to be performed. Payment will be accepted at this time as well.
The medical portion of the appointment includes two injections. The first is a sedation, pain relief and tranquilization cocktail that will be given in the muscle of the hip/back/thigh area. This first injection takes effect gradually, and will create a relaxed, comfortable and sleepy state for the patient. Once the pet is very sleepy, the second injection will be given in a vein. This injection is an overdose of surgical anesthetic, and is painless. This is the euthanasia injection, and will stop the breathing and heart.
Dr. Roberts will listen for the heart to stop and pronounce the death once the pet is deceased.
OSU offers pet owner grief resources - click here
FAQ's
- Blanket and towel: Your pet may need to be partially covered with a blanket to help with restraint while giving the sedation injection. Pets often release their bladder after sedation or passing, and a towel may be placed underneath to keep the area clean.
- Pet’s bed, blanket and favorite toys, if they have them.
- Music or TV noise if desired. Some pets have favorite sounds or shows.
- Other pets: Other pets are also family members, and are welcome in the appointment if desired. Most of the time, they are very excited to see Dr. Roberts initially, but calm down quickly and are a valued addition to the family throughout this difficult process.
- Treats: Treats may be given throughout the appointment.
***Please be advised, these are photos of an actual IHE and may be disturbing to viewers***