There's no questioning the profound bond between seniors and their pets. These companions provide unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of purpose to their owners. However, one common concern arises when a senior loved one needs to transition to hospice care - What happens to the pet? Can the pet stay with its owner in the hospice or at least visit often? Make sure you are prepared for the challenges that hospice care can bring and have a plan in place for keeping your loved one as comfortable as possible.
Understanding Hospice Care and Pets
Hospice care provides a supportive environment for seniors during their final stages of life, focusing on comfort and quality of life when curing a condition is no longer an option. While hospice focuses heavily on quality of life, each program may have different policies. For example, while some hospices understand the therapeutic benefits of maintaining the bond between seniors and their pets and accommodating pets, others may have restrictions due to allergy concerns or logistics.
The presence of pets can significantly impact seniors' well-being. They offer emotional support and stress relief, particularly important in a hospice setting. Therefore, considering pet accommodations in choosing a hospice care facility becomes crucial.
How to Find Pet-Friendly Hospice Care
When looking for a hospice care facility that accommodates pets, doing detailed research is key. You might want to start by identifying the facilities in your area and checking their policies regarding pets. Look for information on their website or call them directly. Don't hesitate to ask specific questions about the frequency and duration of pet visits, any hygiene or vaccination requirements for the pets, or whether they have dedicated pet-friendly spaces.
Also, consider hospice care facilities that offer pet therapy. These programs bring trained animals to visit patients, offering the benefits of animal companionship if the senior's pet can't be present full-time.
Alternatives for Pet Accommodation
In some cases, other patients’ health conditions or comfort might prevent pets from staying full-time in the hospice. Here, it's essential to explore alternative options to ensure that the senior can still connect with their pet. You can consider services like pet sitters or trusted family members who can care for the pet and bring it in for regular visits.
Many hospice facilities understand the emotional connection between seniors and their pets, allowing pet visitations even if they can't accommodate them full-time. This way, seniors can still regularly interact with their pets, ensuring comfort and emotional support.
Preparing Pets for Hospice Care
Transitioning to hospice care doesn't only affect seniors; it also impacts their pets. As much as possible, try to maintain a regular routine for the pet, keeping their feeding and exercise schedules consistent. This helps minimize stress and confusion for the pet.
It's also essential to help pets cope with the eventual loss of their owners. Spend extra time with them, and try to keep their environment as stable and familiar as possible. Much like humans, pets grieve their owners' loss, so providing them with care, love, and support is crucial during this time.
Finding a hospice care facility that understands and supports the bond between seniors and their pets can greatly contribute to a senior's comfort and emotional well-being. It's essential to ask the right questions, explore options, and prepare both the senior and the pet for this transition.
Receive Hospice Services at Home
If you're seeking hospice care in Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Care Free, or Cave Creek, consider Senior Helpers Scottsdale. Our team is committed to providing exceptional care to seniors, recognizing the importance of their bond with their pets. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can work together for the comfort and peace of your loved ones.