If I could give five million stars to Dr. Smith, maybe that wouldn't even be enough. I have resisted home euthanasia mostly due to the extra cost, due to one unpleasant experience with a different person, and an unpleasant rushed phone call with yet another. But my beloved kitty Elsa hates going to the vet, and I wanted her life's end to be as peaceful as possible. A friend recommended Dr. Smith, and so I took the risk. I only wish now that I had known about him years ago. I couldn't have been more deeply touched by his sensitivity, compassion and gentleness ... to all humans and animals in my household. He was professional to the highest standard, both over the phone, in person, and e-mail. He was ready to hold space for whatever kitty Elsa or I needed ... more time, a more comfortable position, a tissue, talking, silence, tears. I am involved in cat rescue and have had to say goodbye to many precious feline souls. Of all the goodbyes, today's experience with Dr. Smith was the most dignified, respectful and gentle letting-go that I've had. I was able to cradle Elsa in my arms, on my lap, while sitting on my couch, in the comfort of my home. She was calm throughout the process. I am forever grateful. Oh ... PS ... I had been concerned whether home euthanasia would be possible due to Elsa's weak and emaciated condition and the probable need to locate veins. The unpleasant rushed phone call that I referenced earlier was with a vet who said he couldn't guarantee that the process wouldn't be painful or difficult to do at home due to a kitty's fragile state. So when I expressed this concern to Dr. Smith, he said simply that it wouldn't be a problem. And with the techniques he used, it wasn't. Again, so very grateful. read more

Rainbow Bridge Vet Services - Elsa nestled with her snuggle buddies, Grey and Maki, the day before Dr. Smith helped her cross the Rainbow Bridge. - Veterinarians Near Me

Thanks to this service for making one of the worst days of our lives as easy as possible. He was very thoughtful throughout the procedure and gave us plenty of space to be with our doggie. Very grateful we were able to do this at our home. read more

Didn't use the service as they informed me they did not serve SF, though the website indicated they did and referral from vet indicated they did. I'm giving them a good rating for communication once I tried to book, but wanted to inform others thinking of using their services. read more

Dr. Smith is a compassionate vet. He provides a way to offer a furry companion a peaceful exit when it's time. This is the second time we have needed Dr. Smith's services. We were just as impressed with him this time. He allowed us to help our senior kitty when it mattered most. She had a gentle last experience in her environment surrounded by those who loved her. Thank you, Dr. Smith. read more

Kind of a review no one wants to have to write but Dr. Smith was patient and friendly- couldn't ask for much more than that. Pets hate car carriers and vets offices usually so it seems more comfortable for them to go in their home. read more

Our 14 year old Yorkie was diagnosed with cancer. We emailed Dr. Smith the night before that he was doing really bad. We asked if Dr. Smith could come the next day. He responded so quick and was able to accommodate the short notice. His emails had nothing but compassion and caring words. When he arrived at our house our 5 year old boxer greeted him and we all sat on the ground. My husband, my boxer, my little Yorkie Bailey any myself. We talked and Dr. Smith got to know our boys. I can't thank him enough. He allowed met to hold my Bailey boy and feel his last heartbeat. He provided dignity and respect to our little man. He was professional and sensitive. Dr. Smith is an amazing veterinarian. Thank you so much for a positive experience. It was such a difficult time and he made it better. I highly recommend Dr. Smith Thank you read more

Rainbow Bridge Vet Services - Bailey - Veterinarians Near Me

This is still hard to write about, but Dr. Smith made the process of putting my best friend to rest as manageable as any one person could. Dr. Smith was very quick to respond to any and all of my queries, including my initial request for pricing and scheduling. Every mail he answered all of my questions thoroughly, and with the empathy and compassion appropriate considering the situation. Prior to needing his services, Dr. Smith and I had no previous communication whatsoever. However, It felt like you were dealing with a long time family friend as opposed to a stranger that owns/operates a business. Dr. Smith also respected my wishes to conduct business through email as speaking about the subject at the time was something I was unable to do without completely breaking down. He arrived on time and was fully prepared to proceed once he stepped foot inside. There was no feeling of unpreparedness, fiddling or running back to the car, things that I would imagine at such a sensitive time could throw off the emotions that are balancing on a knifes edge. And the final, most telling test, was my good boy Cosmo warmed right up to him immediately. He even wanted to show him his new chew toy when we had him lay down on his snoozy for his final rest, something he only did for those he knew and trusted. Its all the little things mentioned above you cannot put a price on when considering the love and adoration we have for our pets, and that our pets in turn provide to us. This service Dr. Smith provides is *invaluable* to any pet owner. It is the best final gift we can give to any our pets, that being the ability to pass surrounded by those they love, in a place they love as well. From the bottom of my heart Dr. Smith, thank you for what you've done for us as well as the others you have and continue to help. read more

It's been just over a year since we lost our dog, I am so thankful for Dr. Smith and the service he provides. We are so glad that our beloved companion was able to quietly pass away at home. Dr. Smith was very professional and caring, and patiently waited while we said goodbye. I can't say enough good things about Dr. Smith. His rates are also affordable, and only a slight amount more than many vet offices charge [possibly less in some cases.] This is always the hardest decision a pet owner has to make, but Dr. Smith provides a much needed service and will help make the experience a peaceful one. read more

When we realized we needed end of life help everything came together with a bit of a tight time schedule due to rapidly declining pet health and some other concerns. Of the ten or so doctor's I contacted, Dr Smith was the first to respond with the most information for us to consider. He was great throughout the process and his price was entirely fair in comparison to the price range we were seeing for a home visit. When we are ready for our next pet, we will consider Dr Smith for general care. read more

Dr. Smith was compassionate, patient, and professional. I couldn't thank him enough for making a heartbreaking and difficult experience, a little more calming. He is knowledgeable, and answered all our questions. And he never once rushed us while we said our goodbyes. He even helps arrange the cremation/burial (with your preferences in mind, of course), which took a huge weight off my shoulders. I am glad I trusted my precious dog to be in his care. Dr. Smith, if you are reading this, thank you for your professionalism and delicate nature. Your kind demeanor is perfect for the line of work you have chosen. My family and I are grateful. read more

This was a difficult decision for us to make, but our beautiful boy was suffering from so many issues and we didn't want to put it off out of selfishness. I contacted Dr. Smith and he was very responsive, we made a last minute change and he accommodated us. He was very kind, gentle and his love for animals showed in the way he handled our Shadow and us. I know at some point we may have to make this decision again, hopefully not for several years, and I hope Anthony is still providing this service. read more

For a second time, Anthony was there for me to help another beloved pet pass peacefully. Some would think it strange, this job of his...but he makes me feel so at ease and so comforting that is almost effortless. Thank you again. read more

I am so thankful for Dr. Smith. This is the second pet, in the last few years, he has helped me with, and both times, each cat was at least two decades old, with multiple health issues, and he made both of their final moments, peaceful. Certainly a tough day for me, but I truly feel it was the best thing to do, and the best time to do it. Thank you Dr. Smith. read more

We have now had to use Rainbow Bridge twice and have valued every penny spent. Dr Smith was compassionate, patient, thoughtful and ready when we were. We lost our 19 year old Cosi: I am grateful for a vet who does house calls and that was patient and tender. For Cosi waiting for us all to be together. We also had to say goodbye to my wife's work partner Nico: Wonderful strong handsome smart K9, we will miss you so much. Thank you for the 7 years and all of your service. Dr Smith was so remarkable, I cannot say enough. Our dogs were peaceful, surrounded by love and grateful to be with us in their own space. read more

Thank you for walking us through one of the hardest things we have ever had to do and allowing us to do it in the comfort and familiarity of our family home. read more

Sadly, but gratefully, we had Dr. Smith help with the passing of our two boys. First in 2012 with Hudson, our Rottie-Shepherd mix who had cancer and then last week with our boy Ben, our Aussie, who lived to be 17 years old. It seems that this is Dr. Smith's calling. Throughout the process Dr. Smith is compassionate, supportive and makes sure you are informed about what to expect. Our boys were able to spend their last moments in their home and only with us. For that we are very appreciative of Dr. Smith and the valuable service he provides. read more

During this difficult Covid-19 Shelter in Place period we were in need of care and a comfortable passing for our dog with deteriorating health. Dr. Anthony Smith from Rainbow Bridge was our choice to make a difficult situation work. Our Vet along with many others were unable to allow owners to accompany their animals into the clinic for these procedures. Dr. Smith is able to come to your home to see it through. He was able to be very compassionate to our pet and help us navigate through a very difficult parting. I would recommend him to anyone facing this difficult decision. He was patient, professional, communicated well, and quite understanding of our needs. The La Goy Family read more

To be honest, I don't remember Dr. Smith that well and I mean that as a compliment. I was very focused on my kitty Javier and my own grief process. My wife handled the logistical details (very straightforward and he responded quickly) and during his visit with us, Dr. Smith was very calm and quiet and unobtrusive, which was exactly what I needed at that time. He enabled me to be fully present during the goodbye instead of thinking about the process or him or anything else and for that I'm grateful. This was the first chance I've been able to say goodbye to an animal companion at home and it was by far the "best" experience. read more

My 100th review is for a service that no one wants to have to consider, but it is important to know that it exists. It is also important to know that the person behind it can be trusted to handle the circumstance with unwavering kindness and professionalism. It is without question that you are heartbroken if you have to call on him for help to bring a peaceful end to a beautiful life, that of your ailing pet, in your own home. Through the wonderfully kind and gentle assistance of Dr. Anthony Smith, our little tiger quietly left her pain at approximately 10:15am on Friday, February 1, 2008. He will always have our gratitude for his care and understanding. This is never an easy choice to make. Our feline child joined the family at 8 weeks and remained a constant, albeit sassy, companion until just 5 weeks shy of her 19th birthday. Both cat and dog, princess and would-be prize fighter, she ruled our world, stole our hearts, and amazed all who knew her. If the option existed for her to visit us for just one indulgent moment, we would welcome her back to chew a plant, scratch the furniture, or wake us just before dawn--her choice, of course. But regardless, while there were little loves before her, and most likely more to follow, she will always have the distinction of being the very best of the best. We miss you, little one. Our lives are that much better for having known you, and we will continue to smile because of the joy you brought to our lives. If you are able, please support your local animal shelter via contribution of money or time, or consider bringing a companion animal into your life. Regardless of age or breed, each has something unique to offer and the rewards are truly without limit. http://www.petfinder.com/ read more

Dr. Smith is a wonderful veterinarian and came to my home twice over the last few years to put two of my dogs down. Home is where we would be most comfortable and I am so grateful to know about him and his service. Dr. Smith has also helped several of my friends and clients at the end of their pets' lives. Of course it is a terrible thing to go through, but having said that, we have all had as positive an experience as one could have in this situation. He is such a kind and compassionate man. If you know your pet is nearing the end of his or her life, I urge you to not stress your pet out by going to the vet's office and instead call a veterinarian who will come to your home to make your pet's transition as gentle as possible. Love and peace to you and your animal family. read more

Making an end of life decision for a beloved pet is heart-wrenching. Dr. Smith came over on-time and was so gentle and supportive of the process of saying good-bye to my Scottish Terrier, Bella. He instinctively knew how much time I would need and walked me through the process with grace. I'm very grateful to him for helping my dear Bella cross Rainbow Bridge. read more

It's been a few weeks since Dr. Smith enabled my daughter's and my dear cat to pass away in the most compassionate way. There really are no words that adequately express our gratitude. read more

When my almost 17-year old cat stopped eating and using his litter box, we knew it was time to end his suffering. Like a message from the angels, one of my clients recommended Dr. Smith. I have never met anyone with such compassion. He gave us time to sit with our kitty on my lap and caress him until he took his last breath. When he took our precious pet out the door, our home felt a little less empty because of the love he exuded. Dr. Smith provides the most humane act available on this planet. He allows us to be more compassionate for our pets than other humans. I will never consider another option to end a pet's suffering. Thank you. read more

Doctor Smith gets all of the stars. And then some. His love for both animals and their people just emanates from him. He prepared us ahead of time, and gave us every chance to understand what was going to happen. His website has a ton of information on it, and he asked multiple times both on the phone and in email if we had any additional questions. He talked us through the procedure patiently. All of this was so helpful. Ours was not the kind of circumstance that welcomes surprises. When the time came, Dr. Smith arrived on time and was a gentle, calming, compassionate presence that we greatly appreciated considering the emotional wringer we were going through. He sent our beloved, beautiful boy on his way peacefully and painlessly, and gave us all the time and space we needed to say good-bye. Dr. Smith is the best. We are so thankful to him for helping us care for our boy one last time. read more

Saying goodbye is never easy, but it's that much harder when you know it's for good. Shadow was the most amazing dog I've ever known and she was a huge part of our family. From her shy, puppy beginnings (a rescued pound girl), to her incredible personality and unbelievable understanding of what we were saying to her, to her intense hatred for all activities water based despite her webbed feet, she was an instant favorite with all who met her, even people who aren't "dog people." For some reason I liked Dr. Smith right away, even though I can't say I was happy to see him. He made us feel very comfortable, and I think once Shadow met him she knew she could finally relax. I would recommend his services to anyone who has the need. Happy Birthday Shaddy - we love you. 03.17.94 - 03.17.09 read more

Dr. Smith has obviously found his calling. One hundred grieving pet owners can't be wrong. It's all true, so a couple of things that are less important but also appreciated. I was able to schedule a same day (within 3 hours) appointment. Pre visit information was thoughtful and practical advice, rather than clinical info which can be upsetting. Fees were reasonable, service was truly priceless. Highly recommended to all. read more

Even though he was sick and old, it was very hard to make the decision to let our Owen go. Dr. Smith was a kind and soothing presence during a very hard time. With Dr. Smith's help, Owen quietly passed in our backyard surrounded by loved ones. It's nothing you ever want to go through but I am eternally thankful that Dr. Smith was there for us and for Owen. read more

Rainbow Bridge Vet Services - Owen - Veterinarians Near Me

I really can't speak highly enough of Dr. Smith's sensitivity, professionalism and deep compassion. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a peaceful and humane option for putting their pet to sleep. My husband and I cold called Dr. Smith in a panic one Friday morning - our cat Tara, whom we knew to have terminal cancer, seemed to be in terrible pain and we didn't know what to do. As we explained to Dr. Smith, we did not want to just put her to sleep if there was the possibility of treating an acute problem and giving her a little more time with a quality life. At the same time, we didn't want to force her in a cage, drag her to the vets, and make her anxiously wait at the vet if her final hour was indeed at hand. We said we would pay him no matter what and asked that he come out and have a look. He told us he could be over in under an hour. 40 minutes later Dr. Smith was examining Tara. Of course, he lacked all the investigative equipment that they have at the vet, but he suggested that her death was very imminent and her pain severe. We opted to put her to sleep. Dr. Smith patiently explained the procedure and then gave us the time we needed to say goodbye. After she had passed he again offered us the time we needed to grieve and patiently waited out on the porch until we were ready for him to take Tara. Loosing an animal companion is never easy but with Dr. Smith's help Tara's passing was as gentile on her and on us as was possible. read more

Like the others I can not speak highly enough of Dr. Smith's in home services. My beloved pet partner Punk was recently diagnosed with a large tumor on his heart. His death was to follow within weeks or even days. Needless to say I was in a state of shock as I took him in because I thought he had something stuck in his throat, four days later I placed a call to Dr. Smith as it was apparent that my boys life was nearing the end. Dr. Smith came that morning, arriving in a calm and quiet manner, speaking as if in a whisper. It was evident he understood my pain and the level of love I had for Punk. This was my first time using an in home vet service and will certainly not be my last. I am forever grateful for my veterinarians who have taken care of all my dogs for the past 30yrs, but Punk deserved to be less stressed and in a comfortable, peaceful surrounding like his home. read more

We said goodbye to our dog in July 2009. Dr. Smith came to our home which made a difficult situation a little easier to handle. His kind manner gave us the peace we needed to be there with her at the end. It is a heartbreaking to have to say goodbye to any animal, let alone a close family companion. He never rushed us and allowed us to grieve as much as we needed to. It has taken me over a year to even write this review. And I wanted him to know how much we appreciated his willingness to come to our house on a flexible schedule. I have recommended him to several people and would not hesitate to call upon him again. read more

Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest things to do in life. Our experience with Rainbow Bridge couldn't have been any better, considering the situation. The kindness and gentle way of Dr Smith assisting Lucy's transition helped so much and we recommend him highly. read more

Writing this on Thanksgiving because I was sitting around thinking of things I'm thankful for. Dr. Smith came by our place on short notice in February 2007 and eased our beloved 16-year-old dog Zeke's passing. The man made a horrible and sad time as kind as it could have possibly been. For more than a decade I'd hoped that Zeke wouldn't have to have a vet's office be the last thing he saw, that his last thought wouldn't have to be "I want to go home." Thanks to Dr. Smith, he was able to BE home at the end, with his beloved humans right there. I will always be grateful to him. read more

We had to make the decision no pet owner wants to make, especially when your dog is only 5 years old. Our black Lab, Newt, had spent 6 weeks very ill from an unknown bacterial infection that eventually destroyed her heart's functioning. After 3 surgeries, and a hellish week at UC Davis (where she was subjected to horrific procedures we did not request) we brought her home.... to die. And end the pain. For those who struggle with "to treat or not to treat" I can tell you after this experience that often the kindest thing to do is to let them go. In peace, and love. At home. And that's where Anthony came in and Rainbow Bridge. He was kind, quiet and respectful. I could not ask for a better situation and experience for my darling Newt. Thank you, Anthony for your caring and compassion. I will be eternally grateful. read more

Rainbow Bridge Vet Services - Veterinarians Near Me

I agree wholeheartedly with the other five-star reviews here, and thank Dr. Smith for making one of the most difficult decisions I've had to make one of the best ones, too. Yelp reviewer Dave W (below) recommended Dr. Smith to me about a year ago, when my dog was beginning to show advancing signs of his illness. I knew upon first contact with Dr. Smith that he very deeply (and apparently personally, not just professionally) understood the complicated nature "making the call" to end a pet's life. He was patient, kind, and compassionate from the start. Dr. Smith was so accommodating and present throughout the procedure, and in the days that led up to it, including a week of "hospice" care and pain management. He's intuitive and insightful without being directive, and brought ease to a very emotionally painful process. As my dog Yum Yum had been suffering with cancer, I so appreciated the space Dr. Smith gave me to sit with Yum Yum with him under sedation for a few minutes, watching him breathe easily and peacefully for the first time in days, before completing the procedure. The very moment I had dreaded and feared turned out to be peaceful and healing. Like so many people I talk to, I had powerful hopes that my dog would pass naturally, but that didn't happen. Dr. Smith understood this, and respected my need to explore this hope in the last couple weeks of my dog's life. I would, without question, call Dr Smith again. read more

Anthony was so gentle and kind and respectful. This is the second time we have had him come to our house to help each of our elderly cats pass on. He was very professional but gentle in every way. He helped guide us through the very difficult process. And when it was time to say goodbye to my 18 year old siamese, Monkey, he was gentle with her. And when Monkey took her final breath, he said, "she is free now". Which was so sweet and helpful. Because all we want for our baby is for her to be free from suffering. I hightly recommend Anthony for a peaceful passing for your family member. read more

Rainbow Bridge Vet Services - Monkey 18 years old - Veterinarians Near Me

I want to thank Dr. Smith for being so compassionate and providing the service that he does. Today he helped my beloved dog Shasta over the rainbow bridge. She was going on sixteen years old with a number of health issues and no longer able to get around. I found Dr. Smith through yelp since I knew I would soon need a vet for this part of Shasta's care. My regular vet office does not give the sedation shot prior to the final shot and that does not work for me. At this point I want to thank all of those yelp users that wrote a review for Dr. Smith you made this so much easier for me. I've read and reread all the reviews prior to "the appointment" and it helped me greatly. For anyone reading these reviews that will need to help a furkid over the rainbow bridge please know Dr. Smith deserves all five of those stars. read more

Dr. Smith is wonderful. His kindness and compassion make one of the hardest things a pet owner can do seem just a little bit easier. His sincere compassion really makes a difference. If you are reading this and are looking for a peaceful and respectful way to bring this phase of your pet's life to an end, I cannot recommend anyone higher than Dr. Smith to help you through this process. read more

Dr. Smith is incredible. He facilitated a beautiful exit for my beloved dog. Dr. Smith was so kind and patient with me, giving me total freedom to do whatever I needed to. He has a calm and grounding presence. I will absolutely call him again should I be in this situation with another pet. I can't recommend him enough. This is the way to go if you must make this sad decision. It isn't cheap but well worth it. I've never felt this grateful when writing a check. Truly. read more

Dr. Smith is providing a much needed service. I'm so happy to have chosen him to help 17 year old Maya kitty to cross the bridge. The thought of the anxiety, fear, and discomfort she would experience when transporting her to our regular vet just seemed too mean. To pass peacefully at home is the only way I'll ever do this again. I've done this at an emergency hospital and also at a fancy schmancy vet (NEVER going there ever again). This by far is the best. read more

Anthony really helped to make the difficult decision to put my cat down as easy a possible. This difficult experience was much more manageable due to his care and competence. read more