Questions & Answers
We know you may have questions you are not sure how to ask. Here are the ones families most often want answered.
Who is behind goodbye.vet?
goodbye.vet is the dedicated end-of-life service of NoVa Mobile Vet — Northern Virginia's Premier Mobile Animal Hospital, founded by Dr. Eric Cryan in 2011. Dr. Cryan has been named Northern Virginia Magazine's Best Veterinarian every year from 2017 through 2025, has won the Spectrum Award for 11 consecutive years, and has appeared on FOX, CBS, ABC, and News Channel 8. goodbye.vet was created to give in-home end-of-life care its own dedicated, compassionate home within the practice. Dr. Patricia Bright leads all end-of-life visits. You can learn more about the full practice at novamobilevet.com.
How far in advance do I need to schedule?
Same-day and next-day visits are often available. We understand this is rarely a decision made weeks ahead. Call or request a visit online and Dr. Bright will respond within 2 hours with available times.
What if I am not sure it's time?
Call anyway. Dr. Bright welcomes conversations with families who are still deciding. She will never pressure you — her goal is to give you honest, compassionate guidance so you can make the decision that is right for your pet and your family.
Is Dr. Bright licensed and experienced?
Yes. Dr. Bright is a licensed Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with extensive small animal and exotic practice experience, including dogs, cats, ferrets, rats, rabbits, birds, reptiles, and chickens. She practices as part of NoVa Mobile Vet — a practice with 14 years of history, thousands of patients served, and Northern Virginia's most recognized veterinary awards. She has performed hundreds of in-home end-of-life visits and considers this work a calling.
Can my whole family be present?
Absolutely. However many people you want present is the right number. Children are welcome. Dr. Bright has supported families of all sizes and ages through this experience.
Can my other pets be in the room?
Yes. Many families find it helpful for other pets to be present. Research suggests animals grieve and benefit from understanding what happened to a companion. There is no requirement either way — do whatever feels right for your family.
What happens to my pet afterward?
Dr. Bright can discuss options beforehand or afterward, entirely at your pace. Options include private cremation (ashes returned to you), communal cremation, or home burial where local regulations permit. She works with trusted local aftercare providers and can make referrals.
What species do you see?
Dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, ferrets, rats, reptiles, chickens, and other companion animals. Dr. Bright's background is in small animal and exotic medicine, so she is experienced with a wide range of species. Please mention your pet's species when you reach out so she can confirm she is equipped to help.
Does it hurt?
No. The process begins with a sedative that causes deep relaxation and sleep within minutes. Your pet is fully at peace before the final medication is given. This is the same protocol used in the best veterinary facilities in the world — the difference is your pet experiences it in their own home, in your arms.
How long does the visit take?
Dr. Bright never rushes. She typically arrives 10-15 minutes early to meet your pet and your family. The process itself takes 20-30 minutes. She stays afterward for as long as your family needs — there is no clock.
What areas do you serve?
All of Northern Virginia — Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Bailey's Crossroads, Ballston, Belle Haven, Burke, Burke Centre, Centreville, Clarendon, Clifton, Crystal City, Dale City, Dunn Loring, Fairfax, Fairfax Station, Fair Lakes, Fair Oaks, Falls Church, Fort Belvoir, Fort Hunt, Fort Myer, Franconia, Herndon, Kingstowne, Lake Ridge, Lincolnia, Lorton, Manassas, Mason Neck, McLean, Merrifield, Montclair, Mount Vernon, Newington, Oakton, Oak Hill, Occoquan, Pentagon City, Pimmit Hills, Reston, Rosslyn, Seven Corners, Shirlington, Springfield, Tysons Corner, Vienna, and Woodbridge.
Does NoVa Mobile Vet offer other veterinary services?
Yes — NoVa Mobile Vet provides a full range of in-home veterinary care including wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care, surgery, urgent care, imaging, lab services, and more. goodbye.vet is specifically focused on end-of-life care. For all other services, visit novamobilevet.com or call us. Office hours are Mon–Fri 9am–6pm and Sat 10am–4pm. (866) 946-7387