Ashburn veterinarians see growing demand for calm, familiar end-of-life care
More families are choosing to say goodbye to their pets at home instead of in a veterinary clinic. Local CodaPet veterinarians say it reflects a shift in how families approach end-of-life care for aging and seriously ill animals.
The change is especially noticeable among families with senior pets who want final moments to be quiet, familiar, and free from the stress of travel or unfamiliar surroundings.
In the Ashburn area, two mobile veterinarians with CodaPet are seeing this trend firsthand.
Dr. Lauren Silvesti, an Ashburn-based veterinarian with more than 20 years of experience, focuses on in-home end-of-life care and works closely with families during difficult decisions. She brings experience in both traditional and holistic veterinary medicine and helps pets remain comfortable at home while guiding families through what to expect.
“Many families don’t realize in-home care is an option until they’re already overwhelmed,” Dr. Silvesti said. “When a pet’s condition changes suddenly, people often have questions and a lot of emotion. My role is to help families understand what’s happening and create a calm experience for everyone involved.”
Dr. Megan Lowman also serves the Ashburn area and transitioned to in-home euthanasia work after several years in equine practice. She was drawn to the opportunity to spend more time with families and provide individualized care in a familiar setting.
“Providing in-home euthanasia allows me to offer personal, thoughtful care to both pets and their owners,” Dr. Lowman said. “It also allows me to serve my community while maintaining a family-oriented lifestyle.”
Both veterinarians say many families express the same wish: a quieter, more personal goodbye than a clinical setting can offer. As more pet owners look for options that prioritize comfort and familiarity, in-home end-of-life care is becoming a more common choice across Northern Virginia.
About CodaPet
CodaPet supports pet parents through one of the most difficult moments of pet ownership. Our network of compassionate and licensed veterinarians are available to help your beloved pet pass peacefully, surrounded by family and all the safety and comforts of home. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 1-833-CodaPet.