Companion Animal Welfare

Companion Animal Hospice Palliative Principles

Veterinary hospice and palliative care applies principles from human medicine to companion animals, focusing on quality of remaining life, family support, and peaceful end of life.

Key Facts

Veterinary hospice emerged as a specialty in the early 2000s in North America
Palliative care focuses on comfort, function, and family support rather than life extension
Home visits by hospice veterinarians reduce stress for both animals and owners
Anticipatory grief support for owners is an important component of hospice care
Hospice care includes advance care planning for euthanasia timing and process

Welfare Considerations

Companion animal hospice applies a philosophy that prioritises quality over quantity of remaining life. By focusing on comfort management, family support, and peaceful end-of-life planning, hospice care ensures the final chapter of a companion animal's life is characterised by dignity and minimal suffering.

What You Can Do

Ask your veterinarian about palliative care options for seriously ill pets
Contact specialist hospice veterinary services for end-of-life support
Create an advance care plan for your pet with your vet before a health crisis