Hospice Care at Henrietta Animal Hospital!

Traditional veterinary medicine does little to accommodate pets that are coming to the end of their lives. Although we have made great advances with respect to our ability to diagnose and treat disease, little has changed in decades when we have to make the most difficult decision in our companion’s life. The decision to euthanize one’s companion is never easy and as a pet owner I have agonized over this with my own pets as well as clients whose pets were facing this final journey. As a result, I have dedicated myself to providing a hospice unit at the Henrietta Animal Hospital. Our goals are simple…we want to be able to counsel our clients about their pet’s overall medical condition and long term prognosis, review the options and determine what needs can or cannot be met for the patient. We target pain control, nutrition, hygiene, and hydration while the owners can take time to assess their options. Companions are almost always sent home in the evening where they can be surrounded by their family.

Veterinary Hospice is about facilitating healthy living and graceful aging for the animals who enhance our lives.

Veterinary Hospice is about recognizing and supporting our animal companion's interests.

Veterinary Hospice is about caring for animal companions in the comfort and familiarity of home.

Veterinary Hospice is about alleviating pain and preserving quality of life.

Veterinary Hospice is about appreciating each day as a gift.

Veterinary Hospice is about sharing a journey.

Veterinary hospice can be either in clinic or in your home.

· Veterinary guidance for making health care choices on behalf of an animal companion.


Cats in Hospice Care	Elevated Bed in Hospice Care

How Do I know It is Time for Hospice?

· The chances are that if you are asking yourself this questions you are probably ready to consider hospice care for your pet.

· Does your pet have trouble keeping him or herself clean or do you have trouble keeping your pet clean?

· Is your pet able to move around with ease??

· Has your companion’s mood changed ??

· Does your companion eat and drink the same way??

· Has there been a change in weight or body condition?

· Do you as a caretaker worry about your pet’s life journey coming to an end??

· Do you have questions about end of life decisions??

· If you answered yes to any of these questions, you could benefit with a consultation about hospice care for your companion.

SERVICES OFFERED.

Regular check ups.

· Teaching you ways to assess and monitor your pet's condition between visits

· Email and phone support.

· Managing patients with multiple ailments; coordinating care of the entire patient.

· Attention to appropriate nutrition and hydration.

· Physical therapy

Medications.

· Fluids

· Injections.

· Hygiene and grooming.

· Pain management.

· Drugs.

· Palliative cancer care.

· Support for long-term caregivers.

· End of life consultations.

Laboratory diagnostics.

Hospice care maybe either in the patients home or in clinic