End of Life Care

When I first started working in a vet clinic at the age of fifteen, I could immediately appreciate the need for end-of-life care. This observation carried over to when I graduated in 2002. Many pet owners would tell me that it must be so difficult to help pets pass. Although I did agree that it could be challenging, I did not think that it would affect me.

                In 2020 (during covid) I finally could admit to myself that performing in home end of life care was really starting to affect my mental health. I could acknowledge that after helping a pet pass I would routinely be depressed for days. I could no longer show up to a home of an owner that I did not already know to offer the service for their pet. I have been able to help current clients (and new hospice patients). I can no longer come to a stranger’s home to perform such a delicate service. I know that at home end of life care is so important for pets and pet owners. I am sorry that I cannot offer this service to everyone. I have to protect my mental health so that I am able to have a long-term career helping as many pets as possible. I am so sorry. We can routinely make recommendations for other veterinarians that offer this service – depending on an owner’s location.