As companion animal medicine has advanced, palliative and hospice care for animals with life-limiting conditions has emerged as an important welfare service that prioritises comfort and quality of life.
Palliative and hospice care for companion animals recognises that the final period of a pet's life deserves focused welfare attention, not merely medical management of disease. The goals are to relieve pain and discomfort, maintain quality of life, support normal activities and social interactions as long as possible, and provide a peaceful death at the appropriate time. Many owners find the decision about euthanasia extremely difficult, sometimes delaying it beyond the point that is in the animal's best welfare interest. Veterinary guidance that helps owners recognise quality of life decline and make timely decisions is an important welfare service. Home euthanasia in familiar environments reduces the additional stress of final veterinary visits.