+ How do I make an appointment?
Call or text 864-724-9984 and someone will respond as soon as possible. You may also fill out this form on our contact page
+ What do I need to do to prepare?
There are no preparations needed other than whatever you feel would make you and your pet as comfortable as possible. Your pet can be anywhere you choose. They can be on their bed,their favorite blanket, the couch, or even your lap. We have found that trying to “make them” lay in a particular location can sometimes stress the pet and make them anxious.
+ Do you perform any diagnostic services?
We are unable to perform any diagnostic services. If you feel these are needed to make a more informed decision about your pet’s quality of life we recommend following up with your family veterinarian. We are able to perform a physical exam at time of the visit if necessary.
+ How do I know when it's time?
This is a difficult decision that is best answered on a case by case basis. We are willing to help guide you through this process.
+ Should I give my pet their regular medication on the day of the appointment?
Your pet can receive any prescribed medication, especially if it helps to alleviate pain, stress or nausea. None of these medications will interfere in the process.
+ What should I expect during the appointment?
When Dr. Goodson arrives, he will answer any additional questions you may have at that time. When you are ready, he will administer a heavy sedative in the muscle that will relax your pet and cause them to become very drowsy, sometimes even fall asleep. After this takes effect, typically in 10-15 minutes, Dr. Goodson will then place a catheter in a vein and administer a barbiturate through the catheter. This drug works by stopping brain activity, followed quickly by breathing and heart function resulting in a rapid, painless death. Dr. Goodson will then listen to your pet’s heart to confirm that it has stopped and they have passed. Throughout the entire process, you may be right there with your pet, comforting them and loving them. Afterwards, Dr. Goodson will then transport the body with him if you have chosen cremation as an aftercare option.
+ Can my other pets be present?
Other pets are welcome to hang out during and after the procedure (provided they accept our presence). Many people prefer to bring them in afterwards if they are on the more rambunctious side.
They most likely do not completely understand what is going on. The impact of the loss of their companion is usually noticed in the days and weeks that follow. You may notice them being more withdrawn or less active. They may even search for the pet. As heartbreaking as this can be to watch the best things are to usually distract them with activities and affection. This usually helps both them and yourself. Dogs and cats are very resilient and they will typically accept the new environment and return to normal within a few weeks. If they seem increasingly withdrawn, inactive or their appetite suffers we recommend following up with your family veterinarian. The symptoms will pass but they may require medication to help.
+ Should my children be there?
This is a very personal decision that is best decided based on your own family and circumstances. We have children of our own and are willing to share our personal experiences with them if you would like.
+ What are my options for after the euthanasia is performed?
We do offer cremation services through Agape Pet Services, located at 26 American Ct. in Greenville, SC. We will transport your pet for you following the euthanasia procedure. You may choose to have your pet cremated individually and their ashes returned to you in a wooden urn. A clay paw is included with this option. You may also choose communal cremation where your pet is cremated along with others and their ashes are scattered in a burial plot behind their facilities. Let us know if you would like to add a clay paw if you choose this option. Finally, you may choose to bury your pet at home following the euthanasia procedure. Please check local ordinances for any restrictions. For any other options, please contact and make arrangements directly through St. Francis Pet Services.
+ Do I really get my own pet's ashes back?
We are often asked whether they are actually getting their pet’s ashes back. The answer is yes. Agape Pet Services takes great care in maintaining a strict chain of custody and identification of each and every pet. The only persons handling your pet’s remains are our staff and the staff of Agape. No third parties are involved. You may contact them at 864-232-0311 if you have any questions regarding the process on their end.
+ How long before I get the ashes back and how do I get them?
There is an approximately 2 week turnaround time between the time of the appointment and the time the ashes are returned. You will be sent an information form along with a consent form after you make an appointment with us. On this form you will choose your aftercare choice from the three options given:
- I will handle and take full responsibility for all aftercare arrangements myself.
- I wish to have Upstate Pet Euthanasia arrange for my pet’s cremation without return of cremations.
- I wish to have Upstate Pet Euthanasia arrange for my pet’s individual cremation with return of cremains.
If you choose the third option, you will be asked if you prefer to pick up your pet’s cremains at Agape Pet Services yourself or if you would prefer to have them delivered by us. If you choose delivery, you will be asked to provide an alternate location for your pet’s ashes if you are not home. We will contact you prior to delivery and if you are not home at the time, we will put the ashes in your designated location and let you know as soon as they are delivered.