Senior woman with dog

Veterinary Hospice

Finding out a beloved pet has neoplasia (cancer) or a terminal diagnosis is a very difficult experience. Most owners in this situation are often left with more questions than answers and might be conflicted as to what to or how to best help their cherished companion. How to best help a pet with a terminal diagnosis is a very individualized process that is influenced by family dynamics, a pet’s overall health status, their personality and the diagnosis/prognosis. Dr. McKerney has over 10 years of experience helping families navigate these difficult situations. Many times our goal is to keep a patient as comfortable as possible for as long as possible while maintaining a good quality of life. Achieving this goal often involves assisting with pain management, mobility issues, medications, diet and scheduled quality of life assessments to ensure you pet is as comfortable as possible – not just physically but emotionally. There are circumstances aside from cancer in pets such as kidney failure, serious mobility issues, cardiac disease and more that can place patients in a situation in which they would benefit from hospice or palliative care. These situations can be complex. Dr. McKerney is certified in palliative and end-of-life care (CTPEP) through the Chi Institute and can help your family with any uncertainly you may have about your pet’s diagnosis and create a care plan that best suits the needs of your family and cherished pet.

Initial QOL assessments start at $375 and include travel fees, a 2 hour appointment time to review records, perform a through physical exam, pain management assessment, nutrition consult, integrative and palliative options, medication review, pharmacy enrollment, and mini AP or MLS laser session if applicable.

Medications, additional services and diagnostics are not included