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In-Home Euthanasia

A peaceful farewell, at home.

When the time comes, some families prefer their companion to be farewelled in familiar surroundings: on their own bed, in their own paddock, and near the people who loved them. We help connect you with trusted in-home euthanasia vets and guide the aftercare that follows.

An important note

Harbourside does not perform euthanasia.

Euthanasia is performed by qualified veterinarians. Harbourside helps families with guidance, coordination with trusted vets, compassionate collection, individual cremation, and the gentle return of your companion home.

How it works

What happens after you call.

01

Call Alby

We listen first, then explain your options without pressure.

02

Vet coordination

We connect you with a trusted mobile vet in your area, on your timeline.

03

The vet visits

The procedure takes place in familiar surroundings. You can be present, or step away, as you choose.

04

Aftercare begins

Alby arrives calmly and unhurried, collects your companion, and begins Harbourside aftercare.

A hard conversation

“How will I know when it’s time?”

It is one of the hardest questions in animal care, and one almost every devoted owner asks. There is no single answer, but there are signs many families recognise afterwards, often with the words “looking back, I think I knew.”

Loss of appetite or interest

When food, treats or favourite people no longer bring a response, your companion may be telling you something.

Persistent pain or distress

Pain that medication no longer holds at bay. Restlessness. Hiding. Crying out.

Loss of mobility or dignity

Difficulty standing, walking or toileting without help. Loss of the routines they loved.

More bad days than good

Tracking a simple journal, good days vs hard days, often makes the picture clear.

Your vet has gently raised it

A trusted vet who knows your animal will rarely raise this conversation lightly. Listen carefully.

A quiet knowing

Many owners describe a moment when they realise their companion is tired. If you feel that, speak with your vet.

None of this is a checklist. If you are unsure, speak with your vet — and call Alby. We have walked with many families through this moment, and we can help you work out the next small step.

Trusted Vets

In-home vets we coordinate with.

These are independent mobile vets we have worked alongside for years. When you call them, please mention Harbourside — they will understand the aftercare you are asking about.

Cats · Dogs · Small Animals

Dr Emma Alfonso

Coffs Coast Mobile Vet

One of the most empathetic and skilled veterinarians we have ever had the privilege of working alongside.
Species
Cats · Dogs · Small Animals
Area
Kempsey · Coffs Harbour · Nana Glen · Lowanna

When you call Emma, please mention Harbourside.

Horses & Large Animals

Dr Lauren Jones

Kentaro Veterinary Services

Lauren brings calm hands, clear judgement, and deep respect for the bond between horse and owner.
Species
Horses · Cattle · Large Animals
Area
Coffs Harbour · Mid North Coast NSW

When you call Lauren, please mention Harbourside.

Small & Large Animals, Cats, Dogs & Horses

Dr Louisa Poutsma

Grafton Mobile Vet

Louisa brings decades of experience and a calm, unhurried presence to the families she visits.
Species
Companion animals · Equine · Bovine · Camelids
Area
Grafton, South Grafton, Clarence Valley, Maclean, Yamba, Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga, Nana Glen, Glenreagh, Ulmarra, Copmanhurst, Lawrence, and surrounding areas.
Mobile / SMS
0411 716 932

When you call Louisa, please mention Harbourside.

After-Hours Emergency

Coffs Harbour after-hours vet line.

For after-hours veterinary emergencies in Coffs Harbour, call the Coffs District Combined Veterinary Emergency Service (CCVAS). This after-hours roster connects you with a local on-call veterinarian from participating regional practices who can assess your pet’s situation and direct you to the open clinic.

Call 02 6699 3356

Optional Add-On

Gentle Presence & Aftercare Support

For families who would like Alby to be present during their companion’s final moments, offering calm support, gentle guidance, and immediate aftercare once the vet has completed the euthanasia.

This service includes

  • Alby attending the euthanasia appointment.
  • Quiet support before, during, and immediately after.
  • Liaising respectfully with the vet if needed.
  • Giving the family time and space.
  • Preparing the companion for transfer with dignity.
  • Beginning Harbourside’s aftercare process from the home or vet clinic.

The euthanasia itself is always carried out by a qualified veterinarian. Harbourside’s role is to provide calm presence, practical support, and respectful aftercare.

After the visit

We’re here when the vet leaves.

Once the vet has been, we’ll come to you — gently, without rush — begin the aftercare, and return your companion home with dignity and clear communication.