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A Visit to Limekiln Farm

Occasionaly, often in the most difficult of circumstances, I am asked what happens once an animal is put to sleep or dies at Orchard Veterinary Group. From my conversations with Limekiln Farm who carry out the cremation of pets for us I had always known they were a caring and understanding organisation and I was happy to reassure people as to how this situation was dealt with. Recently I thought I would have a closer look at what went on, so I decided to pay a visit to see for myself. This is an account of my visit.

Limekiln Farm is a small, family run venture located in an out of the way spot in the middle of beautiful countryside looking out over the Cotswold hills. A long, well maintained lane with neatly manicured lawns and trees surrounding takes visitors to the farm itself which is neat and tidy and has an air of calm about it. I was met by James and his sister Georgina who, with their mother Caroline, run the entire organisation.

As they showed me around the premises I was struck by their openess as awell as their considerate and caring manner. James insists on the personal touch, carrying out every aspect of the procedure personally and with great compassion, always aware that each pet delivered to his care has been someone’s much loved companion. He is scrupulous in carrying out his duties and in particular, when it comes to those pets for which individual cremation has been requested, going to great lengths to make sure this is carried out absolutely correctly.

Both James and Georgina have set my mind at ease and I can say without the slightest hesitation that animals entrusted to their care are treated with as much compassion and dignity as it is possible to give. I have been happy in the past, once the time came, to have them take care of my own much loved pets and I will be happy to do so again.

James and Caroline offer a variety of different caskets - carved or inlaid - for the return of your pet’s ashes and brass name plaques are also available. Some of these come at a small extra charge but if you have any special requests in this regard please contact the surgery for advice at any time.

Limekiln Farm provide a cremation service for all companion animals, not just dogs and cats no matter how large or small. Again, please contact the surgery and we will be happy to advise.

The subject of the euthanasia of a pet is a very difficult one. In some ways it is a taboo subject, one that people feel isn’t easy to discuss openly. On the other hand most of us will realise that at some point the time will come when we have to make the most difficult decision of all about our pet and in writing this section of the website I have tried to give people the information they need in advance as it is not always easy at the time the situation presents itself.

The section below addresses any concerns there might be about what happens to pets who have died. We have also compiled a printable information sheet for owners which will give an idea what can be expected when an animal is ‘put to sleep’ at Orchard Veterinary Group.

I hope by writing this it will be possible to demystify what can be a worrying and difficult process and, as far as is possible, reassure you that the care that a pet receives at Orchard Veterinary Group doesn’t just end at the time of death.

Euthanasia of a pet - being prepared and knowing what to expect

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