What if you find yourself in a situation where a loved one has become terminally ill and as a result, will leave a cherished pet behind without anyone to care for him?
We all know that rescue organizations, shelters and animal caretakers do difficult work every day trying to rehome misplaced, unwanted or abandoned pets. Cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs and other types of pets can suddenly find themselves in need of a new family and a new owner.
There is a little-known program that finds new homes for pets whose owners on hospice care, or who have passed away while on hospice. It’s called Pet Peace of Mind. Rehoming pets whose owners have passed is not the only thing these amazing people do. They also provide financial resources to assist with caring for pets of hospice care patients and they help take care of pets whose owners are on palliative care.
Volunteers can purchase pet food, arrange for the animal to go to the veterinarian when needed. They can even pay for the vet visit.
They will have someone come to the patient’s home and pick up the pet, transport him or her to get their nails trimmed with no expense to the dying patient or their family members.
Pet sitting, dog walking, litter box cleaning, fostering, rehoming – all benefits provided to hospice patients and their families at a time when it is needed most.
Simply stated, the Pet Peace of Mind program is outstanding. The bond between someone who is dying or very ill and their pet is typically strong. Pets will want to be near their humans when they become sick. Also, the human who has fallen ill or is in the dying process finds comfort in their pet being with them.
“This important program benefits our patients – and our community – in a number of ways. It helps our patients enjoy a higher quality of living by helping them keep their pets at home. It gives our volunteer program a new dimension. And it reduces the number of pets entering shelters in our community.” ~ Quote from Pet Peace of Mind Website
There are many situations where Pet Peace of Mind can be helpful. Hospice patients have complex and varying needs, but one thing is the same in every situation. The pet Peace of Mind program is a great resource during times when things get really tough for terminally/seriously ill patients, or those who have passed away in the care of hospice.
For more information on this amazing program, visit: About Us | Pet Peace of Mind.
Your blog engages me from start to finish. I can never move on without reading your whole article.
Thank you, I appreciate it!