Serving Carlsbad, CA and surrounding areas

A gentle farewell for your beloved companion

Dr. Germaine Germundson provides compassionate in-home euthanasia for dogs and cats, offering comfort, dignity and peace during life's most difficult moments.

Watercolor illustration of a veterinarian in navy scrubs and a pink stethoscope sitting on the floor, gently petting a small curly-haired dog
Compassionate CareIn the comfort of home
Dr. Germaine Germundson holding a cat

Meet Dr. Germaine

My journey into in-home euthanasia began with my own beloved soul dog. Saying goodbye to her at home, surrounded by love and peace, showed me the profound difference a gentle, dignified farewell can make. That experience inspired me to help other families give their pets the same care and comfort.

From the start of my career, I have focused on supporting pets and their families during life’s most meaningful moments. Specializing in in-home euthanasia allows me to provide compassionate, personalized care, creating calm, loving spaces for pets’ final moments.

I became a veterinarian out of a lifelong love of animals and a fascination with science and medicine. Over the years, supporting families through both joyful milestones and difficult goodbyes has reinforced my belief that every animal deserves dignity, comfort, and compassion, not just in life, but in death.

Guided by empathy, balance, and intention, I bring these values to every family I support through the end-of-life journey.

Earned her undergraduate degree from MiraCosta College in 2021, and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from St. George's University in January 2026 after completing clinical training at Cornell University.

Based in
Carlsbad, CA and surrounding area
Animals served
All dogs and cats
Notice needed
As little as 2 hours
Experience
8 years

With love and respect

A peaceful journey, held in love

We understand how difficult this moment is. Dr. Germaine walks beside you through a respectful, step-by-step process designed for your pet's comfort and your peace of mind.

STEP ONE

Reach out

Book a visit through CodaPet. Visits can be arranged with as little as two hours' notice, and Dr. Germaine will answer any questions to help you feel prepared.

STEP TWO

In-home arrival

Dr. Germaine comes to you, where your pet is most relaxed. There is no rush; she takes the time needed for everyone to feel settled.

STEP THREE

Comfort first

Your pet is made comfortable and relaxed, held by you or resting in their favourite spot.

STEP FOUR

A peaceful goodbye

When you are ready, Dr. Germaine gently guides your pet to a peaceful passing, and you can stay by their side the whole time. Aftercare follows if you wish.

A gentle guide from Dr. Germaine

Before our time together

Thank you for inviting me into your home during such a difficult time. It is an honor to help your beloved companion pass peacefully and comfortably, surrounded by the people who love them most.

The love you have shared will always remain.

Download the printable guide (PDF)

One last potty break

If your pet is still comfortable enough to do so, taking them outside for one last potty break before I arrive can be helpful.

Help me find you

Please confirm that your address, phone number, gate codes, and any special parking or access instructions are correct so I can find you easily.

Everyone who brings comfort

You're welcome to have as many family members present as you'd like. Children, close friends, and other pets are all welcome if you feel their presence would bring comfort.

If another pet is anxious

If another pet becomes anxious or overly excited, it may be helpful to have a favorite stuffed treat, food puzzle, or a trusted friend take them for a walk during the appointment so the environment remains peaceful for everyone.

Aftercare and keepsakes

Aftercare options

Aftercare choices are reviewed and confirmed during the appointment. You may choose:

Private cremation

Ashes are returned in the urn of your choice.

Home burial

Where legally permitted and appropriate.

You may also choose to use your own preferred cremation provider or aftercare arrangements. A lock of your pet's fur is included in a keepsake glass vial as a remembrance.

Compassionate care for the journey ahead

Loss is deeply personal. Beyond the care of your pet in their final moments, Dr. Germaine can help with the practical steps that follow, so you do not have to carry them alone.

  • In-home euthanasiaFor dogs and cats, in the comfort of your home.
  • Emergency appointmentsWhen you cannot wait, urgent visits can be requested.
  • In-home consultationsTime to talk through your pet's condition and your options.
  • Aftercare and cremationPrivate cremation, communal cremation, or home burial, arranged with you.
  • Deceased pet pick-upRespectful collection when a pet has already passed.

Frequently asked questions

What happens during the visit?

Dr. Germaine will spend a few minutes talking with you before anything begins, explain each step, and answer every question. You move entirely at your family's pace. There is never any rush.

Will my pet be comfortable?

Your pet's comfort is Dr. Germaine's first priority at every step. She will explain what to expect before anything begins, and you can ask her anything along the way.

Can I bring other family members or pets?

Yes. You are welcome to have as many family members present as you'd like. Children, close friends, and other pets are all welcome if you feel their presence would bring comfort.

How should I prepare?

If your pet is comfortable enough, one last potty break before Dr. Germaine arrives can help. Please confirm your address, phone number, gate codes, and any parking or access instructions. You may also like to have a favorite blanket or toy, preferred treats, soft music, or a candle or photo nearby. There is more in the guide above.

I have a large dog. Is that okay?

Yes. Dr. Germaine always comes prepared with a stretcher when needed. If you are comfortable helping her gently move your dog afterward, she truly appreciates it. If you won't be able to help, please let her know ahead of time so she can arrange additional assistance.

How quickly can Dr. Germaine visit?

Visits can be booked with as little as two hours' notice, and emergency appointments can be requested when you need one sooner.

What about aftercare?

Aftercare choices are reviewed and confirmed during the appointment: private cremation (ashes returned in the urn of your choice), communal cremation (ashes respectfully scattered at sea by Oceans of Love), or home burial where legally permitted and appropriate. You may also use your own preferred cremation provider. See aftercare options.

Can I talk with Dr. Germaine before my appointment?

Yes. If anything comes to mind, even something small, please reach out. Dr. Germaine is always happy to schedule a phone call if talking through the process would bring you peace of mind. She does not answer calls or texts while assisting other families and will get back to you as soon as she can.

Where do you serve?

Carlsbad, CA and the surrounding area. Enter your address when you book to confirm.

Kind words from families

5.07 reviews on CodaPet
Germaine was an absolute angel during one of the hardest moments our family has faced. From the moment she arrived, she provided comfort, guidance, and compassion without ever making us feel rushed or pressured. She gently helped us through each step, allowing us the time and space we needed to say goodbye. What stood out most was her quiet strength and kindness. She held care in every moment, remained patient when emotions became overwhelming, and was a steady, calming presence throughout the entire process. We are so grateful that our beloved pet was able to pass peacefully at home, surrounded by love. Germaine made an incredibly difficult experience more bearable, and we will never forget her compassion. We cannot recommend her highly enough.
Suzi B.August 2026 · via CodaPet

Dr. Germaine G. Was great! Patiently took all our questions and answered them professionally and with genuine care, she understood my family's sentimental values and loved for our beautiful Pet/daughter dog, MAYA. I would highly recommend Dr. Germaine, we loved, that she took her time and sent us a personal written card, after our Pet passing. Thank you, Very Much Dr. Germaine for your genuine Care!

Jose J.September 2026 · via CodaPet

Hi Dr German Germindson was a compassionate caring and gentle animal lover who was very sensitive to how painful the loss was. I would highly recommend her to anyone who wants to offer their pet a peaceful passing.

Stacey S.August 2026 · via CodaPet

Dr. Germaine was the perfect choice for my sweet “Frankie” and I to share his last hours with. She was so compassionate and peaceful. She seemed to love my dog as much as I did. This was the fourth time in my life I have had a dog be put to sleep. I will never again do it at a vets office. This was the best decision, experience for me. Thank You!

Charlene L.August 2026 · via CodaPet

Dr. Germaine was incredible with the passing of our dog, Koda. She really gave us time to be with him, tell us about the process, and really let us grieve before he was taken to be cremated. I couldn't think of a better experience, and it was much more peaceful than having it happen at a vet office previously. I am so grateful for her and everything that we experienced that day. I wanted to give my husky, who gave me so much life, a peaceful ending, and that's exactly what happened. Thank you so much.

Alexandria T.September 2026 · via CodaPet

Dr. Germundson was very caring and sympathetic to our situation. She was very kind and didn’t rush us or precious us in anyway. We highly recommend her.

Jeffrey R.August 2026 · via CodaPet

Dr. Germaine was the most kindest, most gentle Vet that helped me put to rest my 17 year old cat.

Debra B.July 2026 · via CodaPet
Watercolor illustration of pets with angel wings gathered on a rainbow bridge among soft clouds and flowers, welcoming a small curly-haired dog with a halo

Honor your bond with a peaceful goodbye

Schedule an in-home visit with Dr. Germaine today. She will be with you every step of the way.

Book Through CodaPet

Scheduling through CodaPet · Dogs and cats · Carlsbad, CA

Questions before your visit? Call Dr. Germaine at 760-712-8332. She does not answer calls or texts while assisting other families and will get back to you as soon as she can.