Harvey's Place

If you are concerned about quality of life for your pet, it usually means that there has been a diagnosis or that your pup is aging and showing "old age symptoms". As frightening as this may be, it is more frightening not knowing what to do at this point to help your companion during this time.

A Quality of Life Scale is a tangible tool that helps you monitor your pet, and better understand your emotions so that you can objectively observe your loved one's condition during your time together.  There are a few tools out there to help you:

1 - Lap of Love has a Quality of Life Scale that you can print out for your use. You can also find information on how to use it at this site, too: http://www.lapoflove.com/Pet_Quality_of_Life_Scale.pdf

2 - Pawspice uses a different method but is equally useful: http://pawspice.com/clients/17611/documents/QualityofLifeScale.pdf

3 - There is also an interactive tool developed by a veterinarian for you called the Pet Hospice Journal. It's a free tool for those who prefer an online experience that can incorporate photos, charting, and a way to connect with your vet.