What is Hospice for Animals?

Hospice refers to the physical, emotional, and spiritual care of the terminally ill and their families. The term originated from a word describing a safe place for travelers. Hospice seeks to provide this safe place for both terminally ill pets and their human guardians during this difficult time. The option for hospice care can be chosen when an illness is determined to be terminal (prognosis less than 6 months). Hospice care consists of palliative medical treatment for the pet as well as appropriate emotional and spiritual support for the family.

Palliative medicine refers to any treatments aimed at limiting the pain and suffering of the ill pet. Treatments are not aimed at a "cure" per se, but only at giving the pet the best quality of life during the dying process. In addition to pain control, the hospice veterinarian will address issues such as nutrition, elimination, movement, and mental status. An important aspect of the treatment is that it is done at home and in partnership with the pet's guardian(s). The veterinarian will do his/her best to inform and educate the family about pain control, quality of life, and euthanasia. Working together in this way, the family will feel empowerment and autonomy as they seek to help their pet.

Of primary importance in animal hospice is the protection of the bond between the person and their beloved pet. Terminal illness brings with it much difficulty, both emotional and physical, for both the pet and the family.
Emotions such as fear, guilt, confusion and grief can be overwhelming. These emotions can complicate the difficult decisions required of the pet's guardian during this time. The hospice veterinarian will form a working alliance with the family and help them navigate difficult matters such as quality of life and euthanasia.

The modern human hospice movement began around 1970, and human hospice care can be found worldwide. With the increasingly significant roles pets play in the lives of many individuals and families, this important service is now becoming available for pets in many places, including Seattle.