In-Home Euthansia
A softer way of facing a loss
Serving All of Chatham County, NC
Dr. Lydia is proud to serve all addresses in Chatham County, where she lives with her family.
For an additional fee, Dr. Lydia serves addresses in Orange and Alamance Counties that are SOUTH of I-40.
Extended Service Area
Although the decision to say goodbye is never easy,
we can choose how we want to say goodbye…
We can surround our pet with their favorite place and people.
We can intentionally reduce pain and anxiety.
We can create a space that honors connection and love
… and, we can make these decisions together.
“We were so fortunate to have Dr. Lydia help our beloved Pickles pass. She is extremely compassionate and absolutely incredible in that role. What could have been an awful situation, was actually quite peaceful and beautiful, thanks to Dr. Lydia. She has a true gift. ” ~ Mandy, Pittsboro NC
What to Expect
Euthanasia aims to reduce pain, anxiety and fear around death as much as possible. Before I arrive, you can decide where in the home (inside or outside) you would like to be.
We can be wherever you and your pet are most comfortable: outside in the garden, under a favorite tree, inside on a bed by the wood stove, a favorite blanket on the porch.
We’ll settle in together, discuss what to expect and answer any questions.
When we are ready to proceed, I will administer an injectable medication that reduces pain, anxiety and causes a deep sedation. After your pet is in a deep sedation, I will administer a second medication that peacefully slows then stops brain activity, causing the rest of the body to let go.
If you have requested cremation, I will respectfully transport your pet for cremation with Companah Pet Cremation. They perform water cremation, a gentle and environmentally-conscious method of cremation. You may also bury your pet at home in accordance with any local ordinances.
Frequently Asked Questions
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For families in Chatham County, the cost is $255. For families in our Extended Service area (southern Orange and Alamance counties), the cost is $335.
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Cremation services are provided by Companah Pet Cremation based in Apex, NC (www.companah.com). They perform water cremation, which is a method that uses water and an alkaline solution to mimic the natural process of decomposition. It is gentle and environmentally-conscious.
Dr. Lydia will facilitate transporting your pet for cremation services.
In an Individual Cremation, your pet is cremated separately, and his or her cremains are returned to you in an urn. There are several standard urn options (a Cherry Urn, a Wooden Tree of Life Urn and a Biodegradable Urn). Pictures of these urn options can be emailed to you on request. An Individual Cremation also includes a complimentary clay Paw Print. An Individual Cremation is $240.
In a Group Cremation, your pet is cremated with other beloved pets. Cremains are spread in the Pamlico River. If desired, a complimentary clay Paw Print can be requested. A Group Cremation is $140.
You will pick up Memorial Urns and Paw Prints from your primary veterinarian’s office within a few business days. Alternative methods such as shipping memorials or picking up directly from Companah can be requested when booking an appointment.
Companah has many other beautiful memorial options to celebrate your pet’s life and your special bond. Please contact Companah directly to request additional memorial options.
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Dr. Lydia provides euthanasia for pet dogs and cats. For other species, please contact your primary veterinarian.
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I serve all towns and communities in Chatham County, NC including Pittsboro, Siler City, Silk Hope, Fearrington, Bynum, Moncure and Goldston.
I also serve communities in southwestern Orange County and southern Alamance County including Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Snow Camp and Saxapahaw.
If you live outside of these areas, I may still be able to help you and your pet. Please contact me to discuss my availability.
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If your pet is experiencing an emergency such as respiratory distress, an acute collapse or otherwise severe symptoms of pain or distress, I recommend bringing your pet to the nearest emergency room or contacting your primary veterinarian. Softer Path is typically not able to provide euthanasia on an emergency basis. You can click the “Book Appointment” to view appointment availability.
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Available appointments can be viewed by clicking the “Book Appointment” button. After selecting your county, you will be taken to my calendar where you can view available days and times (you will also have the option of choosing an aftercare option prior to viewing the calendar).
About Softer Path Vet
Lydia Scheidler, DVM
I am a mother, gardener and veterinarian who has been at home in Chatham County for 10 years. Softer Path was born from a desire to move more slowly and softly in my work as an animal caregiver. I am passionate about the care of geriatric pets. I have facilitated home euthanasias for my patients throughout my career as a veterinarian, especially during my nine years at Hill Creek Veterinary Hospital in Pittsboro. My intention is to be a warm and compassionate presence during this time of grief and transition.
My work is dedicated to my dear Rudy and the memories of our walks together (2012-2021).