When a pet is diagnosed with a terminal disease or a debilitating life limiting condition we have choices to make. We must decide what our goal is for our pets final journey. When we choose palliative care our aim is to provide a quality life until the pet dies on their own or euthanasia is chosen.

1. To keep our ill pets comfortable, free from pain and at home.
2. An alternative to costly surgery or treatments.
3. The only option when surgery is not possible or advisable.
4. An alternative to euthanasia.
5. Buying time for family and friends to say goodbye.
6. To keep our geriatric pets comfortable and at home.

Your pets’ medical history and current status can be discussed over the phone.
Complicated histories requiring review of medical records or consults with referring veterinarians can be arranged. Any behavioral concerns can be discussed; biting, fear of strangers, need for tranquilizers or muzzles.

Our at-home consultation starts with an evaluation of your pet including a physical examination and assessment, looking for the following symptoms:

• Assessment of pain or suffering: Animals express pain differently than people. Often they hide their pain and it presents in subtle ways.
• Signs of Pain : Trembling or shaking
• Constant Panting
• Slow to rise or sit down
• Whining or changes in vocalization
• Decrease or loss of appetite
• Unusual or atypical behavior
• Difficulty getting comfortable
• Abnormal positioning when lying or standing
• Lameness or unwillingness to bear weight on a limb
• Avoidance of physical touch
• Change in energy level
• Signs of suffering (Quality of Life Scale)

After the examination, Dr. Krier will develop a customized treatment plan which will include a combination the following:

• Pain management
• Environmental Modification; carpets, ramps, runners, carts
• Mental stimulation strategies
• Nutritional Support

When is it time? Dr. Krier uses a number of signals to determine the quality of your pet’s life. Here is a guide that can help you decide if it is time to contact us.