I had called several in home euthanasia services before finding Blue Skies. None of which had any appointments for 4-5 weeks out. Blue Skies was actually recommended by another vet who didn't have any availability. I called, expecting the same delay but was surprised when Dr. Tracy said she could make time to come the following morning. This was our first time having a furry kiddo put down at home. We lost our other dog suddenly & under very different circumstances not even 6 months earlier which made losing this pup that much harder. Dr. Tracy made the whole process as comfortable as possible for our sweet little boy. She truly thought of everything, down to every little detail. She gave us ample time to prepare beforehand, explained all that was going to happen and didn't rush or initiate anything until we said it was time. Most importantly, our dog trusted her. She met with him and introduced herself. He licked her hand as if he knew she was an angel of mercy. We were apprehensive about being judged because our pup was overweight. Dr. Tracy never made us feel like anything other than the loving pet parents we are. First, she gave Copper a shot which was a mix of pain meds and sedatives. This made him drowsy and put him to sleep. She brought a McDonald's cheeseburger for him to eat while she administered the shot in order to distract him. After he dozed off, she waited until we said it was ok for the final step. She calmly prepared us for what would happen and also explained the side effects his body could do before and after. I held my sweet little boy in my arms one last time while he faded away.  Dr. Tracy told us immediately after she stopped hearing his heartbeat. She gave us space and left the room so we could say goodbye in private. She then wrapped Copper in a blanket, loaded him on to a stretcher and took his body with her. His ashes were hand delivered to us in a lovely finished wood box ten days later. Our boy was over 120 lbs and he was having a very hard time walking and he hated car rides. Had it not been for Blue Skies, our Copper would have had to spend the last few moments of his life in an unfamiliar sterile vet office. Instead, he left this world in the comfort of his own living room surrounded by those who loved him most. Everyone at Blue Skies was truly a pleasure to deal with during a difficult time, including the courier who brought us his ashes. These people truly care. We weren't just another customer to them or another dollar sign. They treated us and our dog like family. Thank you Blue Skies, you are wonderful people. I don't what we would have done without you. read more

So thankful for Blue Skies. Our 13-yr-old greyhound, Lulu, suffered a severe stroke a year ago, but managed to recover. A year later, on June 7, 2016, she suffered an even more severe stroke that left her flat on her side, panting and almost non-responsive except for hypermetric right front leg movement. In home pet euthanasia is not usually available on such an emergency basis, but we wanted a peaceful end for our beloved Lulu. MN Pets didn't have anyone available until after 5pm, so they referred me to another service provider who called Blue Skies on my behalf and Dr. Becky Bugbee-Tong made herself available for us. Dr. Becky came to our house and she handled everything with such dignity and grace; we felt like we had known Dr. Becky for years; that's how comfortable she made us feel. She was so gentle and tender with Lulu. When we were ready to say goodbye to Lulu, Dr. Becky sedated Lulu and then we waited for the sedation to take effect. After Lulu was gone, Dr. Becky went to her vehicle and gave us some time to be alone with Lulu's body. Then, we went to the door and signaled to Dr. Becky that we were ready for her to take Lulu's body for cremation. She came with a blanket and cart and we helped her place Lulu on the cart with the blanket, helped her down the driveway and into the back of her SUV. Dr. Becky placed a pillow below Lulu's head and handled Lulu with such respect and dignity. We went back in the house and watched as Dr. Becky drive away. She drove very slowly away and my husband commented on how nice it was that she was driving so slowly she drove away, like a one vehicle funeral procession. Dr. Becky's services were such an amazing gift for which we will be forever thankful. It must be a heartbreaking responsibility, but soooo much appreciated beyond what words can express. Thank you from the bottoms of our hearts, Dr. Becky and Blue Skies and to MN Pets and Dr. Jen who helped get this all in place on such short notice. Lori, Chuck, Shorty, Rosebud and angel Lulu read more

I thought I would know when it was time say "good-bye" to my pets. I thought they, in their own turn, would show me clear signs that the most compassionate choice for them would be euthanasia. Unfortunately, I have never felt I have had that experience. Despite my most recent cat's health decline, I kept thinking I could make changes to his diet and lifestyle, and maybe then I could add some quality years to his life. When that didn't seem to be the case, and I reached out to Dr. Tracy at Blue Skies, I still felt so uncertain; so guilty. I somehow felt as if I was giving up on my sweet kitty, or I was missing a piece of the puzzle (and if I could just keep trying to figure out what that piece was, I could prevent his decline). After talking with Dr. Tracy, and deciding to schedule her services, I was a complete mess. When Dr. Tracy arrived in my home, her presence was so comforting and compassionate. She listened as I sobbed. She provided reassurance and never once made me feel she was in any kind of hurry. I have no doubt that Dr. Tracy would have been completely understanding if, at the last minute, I decided not to go through with it - even after she spent the time driving to my home and sitting with me. She talked me though every step in the process without making it overwhelming, and allowed me significant time with Ray Ray, even after his passing, to say good-bye. Dr. Tracy is an incredible human being, and I will be calling her for each and every future need for her services. I am forever grateful to Dr. Tracy and Blue Skies. read more

I would give hundreds of rating stars to Dr. Sara Herrlinger if it were possible. Our cat Tommy had a long battle with cancer and neither of our local vets had enough compassion to come help him to pass peacefully in his home and with his family, even though one drove past our street every day to and from her work. As I became desperate searching for someone to help Tommy in his final time, my hope was fading that anyone would come out to our rural location. I did find Blue Skies P.E.H.S and felt they were the people that held compassion but the distance was again too much to ask. In a frantic state I did ask anyway. Much to my surprise and delight, Dr. Sara replied to my e-mail and said that she would be able to take the trip and visit with us. On January 28 she drove 3-4 hours to arrive here and provide care. I felt her true desire to connect and comfort Tommy, as well as help me during this time of transitioning. Tommy fought hard each day to be with us a little longer and we were treasured with an extra 5 weeks together. Tommy had no pleasure going to the vet so I am glad his last moments were spent peacefully, at home. Snug under his favorite blanket, cradled upon my lap, we shared words and thoughts. He slipped away gently and in knowing love. Dr. Sara was an amazing, loving, kind, warm hearted person and I highly recommend her to anyone who needs help with letting their beloved pet pass with dignity. Thank you Blue Skies! read more

Our beloved red husky, Kiva was given a gentle and dignified death today. Dr. Sara Herrlinger from Blue Skies came to our home to help ease all of us through this difficult day. Kiva was diagnosed 1 1/2 months ago with PLE and given a very short window to live. She fought hard each day to be with us and we treasure the extra days we had with her. Yesterday, when our vet confirmed the end was near, I called Blue Skies. The message said they were with a client and would return my call within the hour. True to their word, Dr. Sara called back and set up an appointment for today. Please know that Dr. Sara is not only kind and gentle with your much loved pet, but also was so sweet and patient with us as we changed our minds about where in our yard we wanted to be with Kiva during her last moments. Dr. Sara explained everything she was doing and asked us about Kiva. She listened to us as we told her about our little red "social barometer" (that dog always knew where the fun was happening!). After Kiva died, she treated her so gently and carefully covered her as we placed her on the stretcher to be taken to Pets Remembered. She even helped us place a bouquet of flowers with her (Kiva loved to smell the flowers in our gardern). Kiva looked so peaceful and at rest. The people at Blue Skies will help you and your pet in the most difficult and sad situation...and leave you feeling at peace. Thank you, Dr. Sara! read more

When we found out that our beloved Zoë had an aggressive oral cancer, we were overwhelmed. Despite strong pain medication and lots of loving care, her condition progressed rapidly, and within a week, she had lost most of her quality of life. We knew it was time to help our sweet kitty to go, but didn't want her to spend her last hour of life riding in a car (which terrified her), then going to the veterinarian's office, with strange smells and sounds surrounding her. We wanted her to feel safe. Dr. Corcoran at Blue Skies Pet Euthanasia was so kind and compassionate. She explained to our family, including my sons (ages 14 and 9), what she would be doing, what Zoë might do in response, and a common time frame for the euthanasia process. She gave us all the time we needed to say goodbye, then administered the sedative shot. Zoë lay comfortably in our 14-year-old's arms for the entire process. Dr. Corcoran discreetly administered the second injection, and Zoë passed peacefully from life. Dr. Corcoran took a clay paw print for us to keep, and repeatedly expressed her deep sympathy. It gives me such peace in my heart to know that Zoë's final moments were spent at home, her place of sanctuary, in the arms of those who loved her most. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Dr. Corcoran and Blue Skies Pet Euthanasia, for the gift of peace that you gave to Zoë and our family. read more

I used blue skies in-home euthanasia service during one of the most heartbreaking moments of my life, and I was shocked by the lack of sensitivity and professionalism from the veterinarian. While she had been communicative by text beforehand, her demeanor during the actual appointment was unsettling. Moments before administering the final injection to my beloved dog, she said, "Take your time saying your goodbyes -- but this year." Whether she intended it as a joke or not, it was profoundly inappropriate and hurtful. In that moment, I needed compassion and respect, not sarcasm or impatience. Unfortunately, the unprofessional tone continued afterward. When she notified me that my dog's ashes were ready, she texted, "I have your dog's ashes back. He is on my recliner in my living room." This felt shockingly casual and showed a complete lack of awareness about how deeply personal and painful this process is for grieving pet owners. Saying goodbye to a pet is already devastating. I expected empathy, sensitivity, and professionalism from a service that specializes in end-of-life care. Instead, I left feeling disrespected and upset during what should have been a peaceful final moment with my dog. I cannot recommend this service, and I hope they take serious steps to improve their bedside manner and communication. read more

Cocoa was lost, in need of a home, and somehow "chose" me to care for her--soulmates who found one another. Since this cheerful, bright-eyed, playful dog walked into my life 14 years ago, she's been my faithful friend through many twists and turns of life. She became the first and best buddy of my son as he grew through early childhood. When I welcomed a wandering Cocoa into my heart and our home, I promised her, "I'll always take care of you and love you forever." Many years later, when I realized with a breaking heart that the time had come when "caring for" Cocoa meant sparing her from suffering and letting her go to be at peace, I didn't know how I could find the strength to do so. That's when I found Blue Skies Pet--perhaps in the same way that Cocoa had miraculously found me. As soon as I met Dr. Tracy Corcoran, I knew that she would help us find our way on this final journey with Cocoa. Dr. Corcoran, my son and I can't thank you enough for your kindness, compassion, intuition, and patience as you led us through the tender and surprisingly peaceful process of letting our sweet Cocoa go as we held her close and stayed by her side. For any other person or family who must take this sad journey with a beloved pet, you can trust Blue Skies Pet to guide you with skill, gentleness, and true compassion. read more

Dr Tracy Corcoran was so professional, kind, and respectful to our family on one of the hardest days of my life. From the beginning, she made sure I understood what was happening and what to expect, letting me know that I could hold our dog and engage with her as much as she and I needed. She was sure to let us know that our other dog was free to be by us if he wanted to be. She truly listened to what we wanted. Our dog had low blood pressure that made it more challenging to do the final part of the procedure, but she was so calm and never stopped making sure that we understood what was happening. Even after the strong painkiller took effect and our dog was in a deep sleep, Dr Corcoran handled her so respectfully and with such gentleness. Our girl had such a peaceful end to her life thanks to Dr Corcoran. Her energy was exceptional, she was so peaceful and so kind. I would recommend this service to *anyone* who is looking for an in-home option. Our girl was very anxious traveling to the vet in the last couple years of her life and this was so much better, being able to meet Dr Corcoran in her bed where she was comfortable and being able to say goodbye on our own schedule. All the kindness and love and dignity I wished for in my precious girl's final moments in life were there. read more

On October 3rd, 2018, I had to make the hardest decision ever and let my puppy of 7 months old pass peacefully. He had been battling with end stage kidney disease, and after 5 days at two different ER hospitals, we were told nothing further could be done. Blue Skies was recommended to us by the U of M. The day I called Blue Skies, I knew it was time for my Sweet Pea, he had been extremely weak the night before and he barely got any sleep. Dr. Tracy was able to come the same day in the evening so we could spend our last hours with Sweet Pea. She explained every detail before she proceeded, and gave us all the time we needed. She made a paw print in clay for us, and sent us a heartfelt card the same week. Blue Skies also notified our primary vet and the hospitals that Sweet Pea had passed so we wouldn't have to make that call at such a hard time. They personally delivered the ashes when they got them back. Losing Sweet Pea was the hardest thing we had to face as a family and we are so greatful Blue Skies was able to come to our home so our little boy would not have to go back to the hospital. Sweet Pea was the light of my life and it was the most heart wrenching time for me, but Dr. Tracy made it as comforting as possible. Thank you Blue Skies team for everything you do. read more

I had the hardest time deciding the right way to let my 13 year old boxer Corvus go. When it was time I decided I didn't want to have to carry him from our home, into a car, then drive and sit uncomfortably or in pain waiting in a noisy, bright vet clinic. I spent a lot of time researching different in home options and finally made the hard call to Blue Skies. I received their voicemail and was called back in about an hour. Dr Taylor answered all my questions I had at the time and gave me straightforward and helpful answers. When Dr Taylor arrived at my home she spent time getting to know Corvus and going through the details of the euthanasia with my boyfriend and I. She respectfully let us know everything that was happening during the whole process and allowed us time to decide when we were ready to say goodbye. Being at home we were able to allow all our family (two dogs and cat) to be with us to also say goodbye at the end. Corvus was able to stay in his bed, with a cozy blanket, and with his family who loved him as he peacefully went in his home. This gave us the opportunity to honor the life and loss of a great friend and for that I am very thankful. I greatly appreciate the kind and respectful service that Blue Skies gave us. read more

12/19/17 ~ A beautiful being passed on today at 1:45 pm. She was wonderful, she was loyal, she was understanding, she was loving...she was my true friend. Her name was Cookie. I found her on Craigslist 6 1/2 years ago. They said she was 2 1/2 years old. I think she was older than that. She was on her third home. I gave her a forever home. She was a Saint Bernard. 150 lbs. of last chance. It was love at first sight. Today...she died. I made the choice. I set the day. I set the time. I held her head as she passed away. I cried. My heart is broken. Dr. Tracy Corcoran helped me through it. I didn't look at Dr. Tracy very much because all I could see through my tears was my beautiful friend and companion, but I could hear Dr. Corcoran's voice as she was doing what I had asked her to do. She reassured me that I had made the right decision, and soothed my broken heart with her kind words and compassion. I could not have asked for a nicer person to put my friend to rest forever. My friend Cookie is at peace, and is no longer in pain. Thank you, Tracy.. https://scontent.ffcm1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/309683_2380813592301_1474996071_n.jpg?oh=900be96deda90c91ca7345da8ed2395d&oe=5ABDB28D (above) safe link to a picture of my big girl Cookie. read more

This place is such a blessing during one of the most difficult times between humans and their beloved pets. I was SO THANKFUL for Sara when that day came for my sweet sweet girl. After a sleepless night, and seeing how much distress my little one with CHF was in, it was clear her meds were no longer doing the trick, so we started searching for options. The thought of putting her under more stress by bring her to a vet office somewhere just felt wrong. I wanted her to be as comfortable as possible and be surrounded by her people who love her. Sara came and was just Lovely and comforting during one of the worst days, a day I knew would be coming and yet could not really be prepared for. She told us exactly how it would happen, got right down on the floor with all of us and just made it a very peaceful passing. She let us spend as much time as we needed to, to say goodbye, and made a little clay paw print for us and let us as a keepsake. They also offer cremation services and let us know when we could expect her ashes back. It made the whole experience as good as it could possibly be in such a difficult time. If I find myself in this situation again, I would always choose this option and highly recommend Blue Skies to anyone! read more

When our dog took a sudden turn for the worse during her battle with lung cancer, I frantically started calling home euthanasia services in between calls to our vet clinic, trying to find her help as quickly as possible. Although Dr. Sara didn't have an opening on such short notice, she stayed on the line with me to talk me through what might happen and what I could do to make my dog more comfortable. Shortly after the call, she even sent a text with additional information to help prepare me. I was so grateful to her for taking the time to help me, even though I wouldn't be able to use Blue Skies' service. Miraculously, our dog managed to get through her episode of labored breathing, and we were able to call Blue Skies the next morning and make an appointment with Dr. Tracy. After a beautiful last day with our sweet girl, Dr. Tracy helped make the moment we had been dreading peaceful and dignified with her balance of compassion and professionalism. I am so grateful to Blue Skies for easing the pain of saying goodbye to our dog by making her passing as peaceful and respectful as possible. read more

How do I thank these people that helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life? From the first phone call to Tracy, who listened with so much compassion while I was frantic. To Dr. Sara, who is the most loving and compassionate vet I have ever known. Dr. Sara came to our home, sat at our dining room table, explained the whole procedure with a genuine concern and love. She wanted to hear stories about my beloved Puddy, so she gave me the time to tell her all about our girl. I have never in my life have had to make this gut wrenching decision. I always thought when this time would come, I would never be able to make it. Dr. Sara helped me make it. She showed so much love and concern. Dr. Sara left with my baby girl, wrapped in a towel with her favorite mouse toy, to bring her to Pets Remembered to have her cremated. She said that Puddy would be in the front seat of her car, in her own basket where it was warm. And when Dr. Sara told Puddy when they were leaving " you were so love and had such a wonderful life here", I felt at peace. Thank you to this wonderful place! read more

I've tried to write this review a few times, and each time I haven't been able to because it's made me so sad. My mini schnauzer of almost 13 years went from happy and healthy two weeks ago, to bony with almost all muscle mass gone - yet with a rapidly growing belly. After taking her to the vet, and discovering she had a massive (as big as half of her body), malignant rapidly growing tumor that had eaten her from the inside out, I was told she had maybe a day. Maybe a few. But she was suffering. I was devastated, and knew I wanted her final moments to be with the family that loved her, in her home. At Home Pet Clinic recommended Blue Skies and Dr. Tracy came out just a few hours after I called. She was kind, patient, compassionate, and exactly what we needed. She gracefully answered all of my children's questions, gave them time throughout the process when they weren't ready for the next step, and did this all with such grace and kindness. Thank you so much Dr. Tracy and Blue Skies for making a truly awful time in our lives just a little easier to get through. read more

Dr. Tracy Cochran is divinely kind and competent. One night, around midnight, I came to the realization that after a short but violent battle with kidney disease, my precious cat, Isabella was dying. She was an agony and it was midnight. I called Blue Skies based on a recommendation from my regular vet on a whim to see if I could at least get their calling service. Like a miracle, Dr. Cochran picked up and counseled me through the decision to assist Isabella in her dying process. She came at 1:00am and guided Isabella and me through a 1 1/2 hour euthanasia process. I honestly can't imagine a more beautiful or loving way to say goodbye to my dear pet. She took great care to explain the process and what Isabella might be feeling. She also encouraged me to take my time and was profoundly patient and kind. Because of her, Isabella passed peacefully in my arms and I have the comfort of knowing that she had a beautiful transition. Thank you Dr. Cochran. I feel so blessed to have had you answer the phone! read more

Both Dr.Sara and Dr. Tracy are absolutely amazing. My parents both used this service for their cats (they're separated) and both times it was a beautiful and peaceful experience for everyone. No one ever wants to have to let their pet go, but they both made it a beautiful experienced as our pets transitioned to their next life. I could not say anything better about this service. They made something so hard, something so much better. My most recent experience was with Dr.Sara. She not only came to us on a Sunday morning, but she also made the experience comfortable and peaceful for everyone. I remember the mission statement from years ago, saying that this was their goal for all of their families and pets. Well, they've achieved that AND so much more. Thank you. From all of us. You took such good care of us and our beloved Daisy till the last moment we had with her. Words cannot say how much my family and I appreciate you and your work. This service makes ALL the difference!! With love, from the Timmer family read more

They made what was easily one of the most heart-breaking, horrible experiences so much more bearable. Dr. Sara arrived, and immediately brought in with her such warmth, empathy, compassion, and a focus on Minnie's comfort and well being that I knew we had made the correct choice in Blue Skies. Our girl was eased along with grace, dignity, and respect, and before she left, we could feel her gratitude and contentment. Minnie hated car rides, and we absolutely did not want her last moments to be in a place that wasn't home and didn't smell right. Being able to do it from home made the whole thing so much less disruptive. While I hope like crazy it will not be for a VERY long time, I definitely would feel comfortable turning to Blue Skies again for this service, and have no reservations in recommending them to anyone who is facing such a horrible decision. Bless you, Blue Skies vets, for filling this niche of a difficult, but very necessary, service. We and our beautiful girl thank you with all our hearts. read more