New Support Group Helps Those Caring for Animals With Special Needs or Life-Limiting Illnesses
PORTLAND, Ore. – Understanding the unique challenges faced by those caring for companion animals with special needs or chronic illnesses, DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital is proud to announce the launch of the Caregiver Support Group. This new initiative is designed to provide support, education, and community for pet caregivers and veterinary professionals who devote their lives to caring for animals requiring extra attention and care.
The Caregiver Support Group aims to offer a safe space for caregivers to share experiences, gain insights, and find emotional support in a setting that acknowledges the profound love and often unseen challenges involved in such care. The group will meet monthly, beginning April 25 at 7 PM on Zoom, where attendees can participate in discussions led by experts in veterinary and wellness care.
"DoveLewis recognizes the emotional and physical demands placed on individuals caring for pets with special needs or life-limiting conditions," said Debrah Lee, LCSW, Veterinary Well-being Program Director. "This support group will not only provide practical advice and resources but also a compassionate space for caregivers to connect and support each other."
The Caregiver Support Group will cover a variety of topics relevant to the needs of its attendees, including:
- Self-care for caregivers
- Anticipatory grief
- Behavior concerns and how to manage behavior changes
- Environmental modifications for the home to support mobility
- Pain recognition – when to give pain meds, when they may be not enough or too much, and when to seek additional care.
Participation is free and open to all who are currently involved in the care of animals with special needs or life-limiting illnesses, whether as a professional or a dedicated pet owner. Those interested in joining upcoming Caregiver Support Group meetings can visit dovelewis.org or contact caregiversupport@dovelewis.org to learn more.
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