Hospice Care for Animals Portland

Hospice

Hospice Care isn’t just about supporting your pet through their final stage of life. We also make sure that you have the support you need as you honor the lifetime of love you’ve shared with your special pet.

 The International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care defines hospice as providing support and care for patients in the last phases of an incurable disease, or at the natural end of life. Hospice incorporates all of palliative care, including pain management, symptom management, and resources for psychological, social, and spiritual support. It is defined as a philosophy, a specialized program of care, and in some instances, an actual place for the dying.

Hospice for Pets Portland

 

When should I consider hospice? 

In general, hospice care is appropriate when your pet has been diagnosed with a terminal disease, has a life-expectancy in the range of a few days to months, and your family does not want to euthanize at this time. 

How is hospice different than general veterinary care? 

The biggest difference between “regular” veterinary care and hospice is that the goal shifts from directly treating your pet's underlying disease to focusing on comfort. Hospice does not mean that we can no longer treat the pet’s primary problem, but we avoid treatment that could have a significant, adverse effect on your pet's quality of life. DoveLewis' Hospice Care team works closely with you, primary care veterinarians, specialist veterinarians, and the rest of your pet's care team.

Can the whole family be involved in our pet's hospice care? 

Yes. DoveLewis' Hospice Care is focused on the pet and their family. When decisions are being made, the well-being of your entire family should be taken into consideration. In addition to the Hospice Care team, DoveLewis' Pet Loss Support Program is a vital resource for supporting your family with options for grief support, conversations around quality of life, and more. 

Book a Hospice Appointment

Hospice Pet Appointments

Book a Hospice Appointment

Helpful Resources

A Group for Connection & Support

While we lovingly provide care to our cherished companions, it can also be a confusing, tiring, overwhelming, and isolating experience. The Caregiver Support Group is a space where people can connect to learn about topics relevant to caring for a companion, as well as yourself, and to find support in community with others.

Learn More About the Group

Feline Grimace Scale

A tool for evaluating pain through facial expression and movement

Quality of Life Scales

Use this scale as a way of evaluating your pet's daily comfort over time.

Additional Resources and Programs

"End of Life Care" from the ASPCA

As your pet’s health declines, you may elect to care for your pet at home—with the supervision of a veterinarian—or you may decide to end his suffering with euthanasia. Read on to find out how to help make your pet’s final days peaceful and dignified.

Read the ASPCA Article

Pet Loss Support

If ever there was a place that appreciates how important pets are in our lives, its here. See what options there are to connect with resources for processing grief and honoring pets.

Learn More

Blog: Living with an Elderly Cat

As the lifespan of cats continues to increase, thanks to nutritious food, indoor living and advancements in veterinary medicine, it is helpful for owners to be aware of the changes an elderly cat will experience.

Read the Article

Podcast: Grieving The Death Of A Pet

The grief we feel when a pet dies is real and worthy of recognition. Debrah Lee, Director of DoveLewis' Pet Loss Support Program is a guest on the Dougy Center's podcast, Grief Out Loud.

Listen

Meet the Team