As your pet ages, it is important that we monitor and discuss changes in attitude or activity at home. Such changes may include weight gain or loss, decreased activity level or soreness after exercise, changes in urination, defecation, or water intake, to name a few.

Due to the increased risk of different health issues with age, our doctors recommend that senior pets have physical exams every six months. Blood work should continue to be checked once a year and regular teeth cleanings should continue. Our team will help you watch for changes in behavior and provide treatment plans to keep your elderly fur-baby as comfortable as possible.

You have probably heard of hospice care for humans. It is also available to patients with a life-limiting or terminal illness that is designed to improve the quality of the life that they have remaining. As considerate and committed animal lovers and veterinarians, we believe that our pets deserve the same courtesy.

What is included in hospice care?

What exactly will be included in your pet’s hospice care will depend on his or her individual requirements. However, typically you can expect the care provided to have some of the following:

• Nutritional support

• Maintaining adequate hydration

• Keeping your pet clean and properly groomed

• Ensuring your pet can move around their environment safely.

• Administering pain medication and any other medication that is necessary or beneficial, such as anti-nausea drugs

• Mental stimulation

• Love and attention

• Consultation with a veterinarian to discuss quality of life as needed