Hospice Care: Why and How
I've long wondered, since why we strive to keep our humans with us as long as possible, giving support and pain medicine, that we don't do the same for our animals. It breaks my heart every time I hear someone say that they "had to put their animal to sleep". Most often, the animal could have had a peaceful passing, with pain medication if needed, at home with their loved ones.
Hospice for animals is a fairly new concept to most vets. And even if they are familiar with the concept, they usually think it consists of palliative care until euthanasia is performed, They don't know where to get guidance. Hospice care for animals is the same as for humans, actually: give them love, keep them comfortable, manage any pain, and be with them. Animals, I think, (I'm sure) know how to manage their dying process and understand it more deeply and fully than we humans do. Virtually all of our cats are able to die on their own, peacefully, here at home. As with humans, they usually lapse into a coma and slowly shut down.
I've been doing hospice for quite a few years now. I have learned from one who has provided hospice care for over 25 years, the blessed Gail Pope of Brighthaven (www.brighthaven.org) Gail is my guiding light. She has written books which are great guides...Highly recommended. Gail and/or I would be happy to consult with you on the subject!
Hospice for animals is a fairly new concept to most vets. And even if they are familiar with the concept, they usually think it consists of palliative care until euthanasia is performed, They don't know where to get guidance. Hospice care for animals is the same as for humans, actually: give them love, keep them comfortable, manage any pain, and be with them. Animals, I think, (I'm sure) know how to manage their dying process and understand it more deeply and fully than we humans do. Virtually all of our cats are able to die on their own, peacefully, here at home. As with humans, they usually lapse into a coma and slowly shut down.
I've been doing hospice for quite a few years now. I have learned from one who has provided hospice care for over 25 years, the blessed Gail Pope of Brighthaven (www.brighthaven.org) Gail is my guiding light. She has written books which are great guides...Highly recommended. Gail and/or I would be happy to consult with you on the subject!
Dear Noah in state.