Palliative care for dogs with terminal illness focuses on quality of life rather than life extension. Evidence-based approaches reduce suffering in the final weeks and months of life.
Palliative care for dogs recognises that a good death matters as much as a good life. Dogs with terminal cancer, heart failure, or organ disease can experience significant suffering without appropriate management. Multimodal pain management, appetite support, and owner education about quality of life assessment enable dogs to have comfortable final periods. The decision to transition from palliation to euthanasia requires compassionate guidance from veterinary professionals.