Quality of Life Evaluations for Dogs & Cats in North Carolina & Virginia
A Thoughtful Approach to a Tender Question
“How will I know when it’s time?” This is one of the most common, and most emotional, questions I hear from families caring for aging or chronically ill pets.
The truth is, the answer is different for every pet and every family. That’s why I offer quality of life (QOL) evaluations designed to give you clarity, confidence, and comfort as you navigate this season of life with your beloved companion.
A QOL evaluation allows us to gently assess how your pet is doing physically, mentally, and emotionally, and how that aligns with your goals and values as a caregiver. Whether you’re considering hospice support, wondering about timing, or simply want reassurance that you’re on the right path, I’m here to walk beside you with calm, compassionate guidance.
Want to schedule a QOL evaluation? Call or book a consultation online. I’ll help you make decisions that feel right for your pet, your family, and your heart.
The Importance of QOL Assessments in Pet Hospice Care
In hospice and end-of-life care, we shift the focus from treating disease to supporting the whole pet in feeling safe, well, and at peace. That means tuning into subtle changes that may affect your pet’s comfort, happiness, and day-to-day experience, even if they aren’t in obvious distress.
Quality of life evaluations are important because:
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They give you a baseline to compare future changes
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They identify opportunities for comfort care, integrative therapies, or environmental adjustments
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They ease the emotional burden of decision-making by providing clinical insight
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They help ensure your pet’s days are filled with more good moments while reducing the challenges.
What I Look For During a Quality of Life Evaluation
Every pet is different, and so is every evaluation. I take a comprehensive, compassionate approach that considers not just physical health, but emotional well-being, environmental factors, and family dynamics.
During a QOL evaluation, I assess areas such as:
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Mobility: Is your pet able to move around comfortably? Are they struggling with stairs, getting up, or walking on slippery surfaces?
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Appetite and hydration: Are they eating and drinking regularly? Do they need assistance or food therapy? Are their nutritional needs fully met?
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Pain levels: Are there signs of discomfort and stiffness, or reluctance to be touched or move?
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Mental and emotional well-being: Does your pet seem content, engaged, anxious, withdrawn, or restless?
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Interaction and communication: Are they still seeking out your presence or responding to touch, voice, or cues?
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Daily routines: Are they still able to participate in the parts of life they’ve always enjoyed, like sitting outside, greeting family members, or napping in a favorite spot?
I also talk at length with you, because your intuition, observations, and emotional cues are just as valuable as any physical signs. Together, we’ll build a shared understanding of what your pet is experiencing and how we can support them.