Hospice & End of Life Care

When the Hardest Conversation Comes, We’ll Have It With You.

No clock. No pressure. Just honest guidance from people who’ve sat in your chair before, and who’ve watched their own pets through the same door. 2nd Street Animal Hospital offer end of life care and coordinates at home euthanasia for Philadelphia families who’d rather their pet go in their favorite spot.

“Every pet deserves to leave with dignity. Every family deserves not to make the hardest choice alone.”

What we help with

Care at Every Step of the Journey

Quality of Life Assessments

Structured conversations and clinical evaluation to help you understand where your pet is — and what’s still bringing them joy.

Pain & Comfort Management

Medication protocols, laser therapy, and acupuncture tailored to keep your pet comfortable and present.

Private Cremation Coordination

We coordinate with trusted aftercare providers so you have one less thing to arrange during one of the hardest days.

Paw Print & Ink Keepsakes

A lasting impression of your pet, made with care at the time of passing.

In-Hospital Euthanasia

A private, unhurried space at 2nd Street Animal Hospital where your family can gather and say goodbye on your terms.

At-Home Euthanasia Referrals

When your pet would rather be on the couch, we connect you with trusted in-home providers across Philadelphia.

When to consider hospice

Signs It May Be Time to Have the Conversation

There’s no right answer to the hardest question — but there are signals worth paying attention to. If you’re noticing several of these, a quality-of-life conversation with our team can bring real clarity.

Are they eating noticeably less than usual?

Are they avoiding stairs, jumping, or movement?

Are they hiding more often or seeking less interaction?

Have they lost interest in activities that light them up?

Are there more bad days than good days this week?

Does their breathing seem labored or changed?

Aftercare resources

You Don’t Have to Process This Alone

Free telephone support from trained counselors provided by different non profit organizations.

Support groups and individual sessions offered through the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.
Online chat rooms, memorials, and a directory of pet loss support groups nationwide. aplb.org.