hospice and palliative care

The goal is to make your pet’s final days as good as they can be.

Hospice can be a beneficial option for pets who are dealing with a terminal illness.

How to tell if hospice care is right for your pet

If your pet is facing a terminal illness, hospice might be the route to go. Hospice care can help maintain a pet’s comfort and provide resources to help with their care.

What is pet hospice care?

Hospice care addresses your pet’s physical, social, and overall well-being while dealing with a life-limiting disease or illness. This begins at the time of their terminal diagnosis and continues through the remainder of their life. It can begin months or even a year before euthanasia.

Hospice is different than palliative care, in that palliative care is the relief of pain when a pet isn’t facing a terminal diagnosis.

Your veterinary team will work with you to find the best ways to keep your pet comfortable during this final stage of life.

Signs your pet is in pain

It can be difficult to figure out if your pet is in pain since they don't always vocalize it. Here are some things to look out for.

Unable to sleep comfortably
Not going up or down stairs
Aggression
Vocalizing
Not grooming themselves
Anxiety and/or agitation
Trembling and/or shaking
Social detachment

Talk to your vet about any of these or other new symptoms that pop up. It can be helpful to video your pet’s behavior to share with your vet.

Ways to manage your pet’s pain

Aside from medication, there are a range of treatments, physical therapy exercises, and more that can help reduce your pet’s pain. (Your vet can refer you to a local specialist for any services not available at your local Banfield.)

Hydrotherapy
Acupuncture
Modifications to home (ramps, litter box and bowl placement, etc.)
Integrative care
Chiropractic care
Changes to diet
Therapeutic laser and ultrasound
Toe grips or socks
Physical rehabilitation

Your veterinary team can help you come up with an overall pain management plan that’s right for your pet.

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Make a plan for your pet

A man holding a small dog next to a vet examining charts

Knowing when to say goodbye to your pet can be difficult. It’s important to involve your veterinary team as they have insight into quality of life measurement, pain management, end of life options, and other resources.

While these life transitions are hard subjects to discuss, it’s important to speak to your veterinarian to discuss your thoughts, desires, and questions for this delicate time. Having a plan can make sure this moment in life is customized for you and your pet.

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