Humane Euthanasia & Cremation

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy. At the Edmonton Humane Society, we’re here to support you through this difficult time with compassionate euthanasia and cremation services.

Euthanasia Services

We offer humane euthanasia for pet guardians who meet low-income eligibility criteria. Our team ensures your pet’s final moments are peaceful and dignified.

Eligibility Requirements

Proof of income is required based on the Canadian Low Income thresholds and must show your full name.

Current Low-Income Thresholds

  • 1 person: $30,526
  • 2 family members: $38,003
  • 3 family members: $46,720
  • 4 family members: $56,724
  • 5 family members: $64,336
  • 6 family members: $72,560
  • 7 or more members: $80,785

Accepted Documents

Documents include any government-issued paperwork stating your yearly household income, such as:

  • AISH card
  • Social Assistance Statement (full benefit statement)
  • Current Year Tax NOA (web and mailed version)
    • Must show your name and Line 15000 – Total Income.

In addition to the requirements listed above, you also:

  • Must live in Edmonton or within 200 km of the city.
  • Be able to provide veterinary referral or medical documentation* confirming euthanasia is necessary.
  • Must pay a $40 non-refundable administrative fee.
  • Must be able to transport your pet to EHS (located at 13620 163 St NW, Edmonton) and/or an affiliate veterinary clinic (if required).

*If medical documentation is unavailable, an end-of-life assessment at an approved veterinary clinic is required. EHS covers this cost at our affiliate clinics.

Important Notes

  • We currently do not have the capacity at our shelter for guardians to attend the euthanasia.
  • We are unable to provide euthanasia services for those who do not meet the low-income requirement.
  • Euthanasia appointments are offered on select days and times. If your pet requires urgent care, please contact a private or emergency veterinary clinic.

If you are a veterinary clinic that is interested in making a referral or becoming an affiliate clinic for this service, email outreach@edmontonhumanesociety.com.

Cremation Services

We offer general and private cremation services, treating every pet with care and respect.

  • General Cremation: Ashes are not returned.
  • Private Cremation: Your pet’s ashes will be returned to you, and can be picked up 1 to 3 weeks.

Should you choose to have a private cremation, we also offer two options for urns:

  • Wood Urns: Small or large, in dark or medium wood.
  • Ceramic Urns: Small, medium, or large, with matte or pearl finishes and 15 colour choices.

Optional paw print impressions are available.

To book an appointment for cremation services, please call 780-491-3522.

Due to veterinary regulations, we cannot post fees online but can discuss options and costs over the phone.

Pet Loss Support Resources

Losing a pet can feel overwhelming. Pets are part of the family and it’s important to allow yourself to grieve their loss. We’ve gathered resources to help you through your grief: