Specialized end of life care for pets is a relatively new idea.  End of life care refers to treatments designed to give supportive care to patients in the final phase of life.  It focuses on comfort, pain control, nutrition, hydration, hygiene, and quality of life, rather than on trying to “cure” an illness.  The goal is to allow the pet to remain with the family for as long as possible, living each day to the fullest. 

     There are options to facilitate the care of senior pets.  For pets with mobility issues, a local company provides a variety of mobility aids, from wheelchairs to slings.  You can find them at www.handicappedpets.com.  You can also search online to find a variety of other aids, from slings to no-slip socks.  Sometimes these aids can make a huge difference in making it easier to care for senior pets.

     Your pet’s own veterinarian can help you with many aspects of end of life care, such as helping you understand the progression of a particular disease, and discussing appropriate pain control.  However, if you desire it, Dr. Sernik can come to your house, meet your pet, look at your pet’s medical records, and consult with your veterinarian.  She can help you come up with a plan to keep your pet comfortable, clean, and hydrated, as well as working with you to minimize discomfort as much as possible.  Dr. Sernik can also help you plan for when the time comes to say goodbye.

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