Veterinary surgeon Danielle Perrin Frei.During a consultation for a routine check-up
1. Background
The end-of-life phase in a dog, a cat or an exotic pet is comparable to that of a frail person: the priority is to relieve suffering, to give support, and to avoid over-treatment. Yet the risk of things going too far is seen more and more often these days.
2. Average end-of-life costs in Switzerland
| Common services | Price range (CHF) |
|---|---|
| Repeat consultations | 70 – 150 |
| Follow-up blood tests | 120 – 300 |
| Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) | 150 – 1,000 |
| Short hospital stay | 400 – 800 / night |
| Placing on a drip | 150 – 300 |
| Assisted feeding (exotic pets) | 30 – 100 / day |
| Palliative care at home | 150 – 500 |
| Straightforward euthanasia | 120 – 250 |
| Euthanasia at home | 300 – 600 |
| Private cremation with urn | 250 – 800 |
Average cumulative cost over 2–6 months: CHF 1,000 to 4,500, or even more.
3. The problem: disproportionate care despite no hope of a cure
Some costly treatments are sometimes offered for animals whose condition no longer holds out any hope of recovery in the short term. This leads to needless costs, stress for the animal, and emotional and financial distress for owners.
4. Why this happens
- Little university training in veterinary palliative care
- Fear of displeasing the client or of a poor review online
- Economic pressure in some private practices
- Unclear communication about the prognosis
- Not listening properly to the client
5. Good practice to adopt
- Explain the prognosis clearly
- Offer a palliative care plan at a controlled cost
- Respect the owner’s choice
- Put quality of life first
6. The role of sensible practices
The AuFuret Veterinary Practice in Échichens offers sensible alternatives, communicates transparently, and never imposes needless or excessive care.
Conclusion
An animal’s end of life deserves a listening ear, dignity and moderation. Over-treatment must never take precedence over wellbeing. Informing families and supporting them in their choices is a fundamental act of respect.