Written by Dr. Chelsea McGivney (General Manager) and Dr. Megan Coveyou (CO Lead Veterinarian)
We believe that the end of a pet’s life is one of the most sacred and significant moments in their journey. Our mission is to ensure that pets and their families receive the highest level of care and compassion during this time. Central to achieving this mission is our team of dedicated veterinary technicians, whose role in our hospice program is indispensable.
Role of Veterinary Technicians in Pet Hospice Care
Veterinary technicians at Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice play a unique and multifaceted role in supporting families whose pets are enrolled in our hospice program. While our veterinarians take the lead in developing and implementing care plans, veterinary technicians serve as an essential bridge between the family and the medical team, offering practical, emotional, and clinical support.
Compassionate Care Advocates
For families facing the emotional challenges of their pet’s declining health, our veterinary technicians provide a steady presence of empathy and understanding. They take the time to listen to families, answer questions, and offer reassurance about the care plan. Their compassionate approach helps families feel heard and supported, easing the stress that often accompanies end-of-life decisions.
Hospice Support Specialists
In our hospice program, veterinary technicians conduct follow-up visits that assist with ongoing care, including medication administration, wound management, mobility support, and nutritional guidance. These hands-on services help ensure that pets remain comfortable and that families feel empowered to provide care at home. By bridging the gap between veterinary appointments, our technicians ensure continuity of care, helping pets maintain their quality of life for as long as possible.
Educational Guides
End-of-life care can be overwhelming for pet parents, especially when faced with unfamiliar medical needs. Veterinary technicians educate families about the hospice process, teaching them how to monitor symptoms, administer medications, and recognize signs of pain or discomfort. They advise the pet parent when a veterinarian should reassess their pet and modify the care plan. This guidance not only improves the pet’s well-being but also gives families confidence in their ability to provide the best possible care.
Expert Guidance from Veterinarians
While veterinary technicians play a vital role in supporting families and pets, we firmly believe that veterinarians are the most qualified professionals to manage all aspects of end-of-life care. Their extensive training in animal medicine, pain management, hospice strategy, and euthanasia ensures that pets receive the highest standard of care during this delicate time.
Our veterinarians take the lead in evaluating each pet’s unique medical and emotional needs. They design personalized care plans, perform in-home assessments, and guide families through every step of the process. Whether discussing hospice options or providing gentle euthanasia services, our veterinarians bring a depth of expertise and compassion that is essential to ensuring a peaceful and dignified end-of-life experience.
Oversight by the Caring Pathways Medical Advisory Board
Overseeing our entire medical team is the Caring Pathways Medical Advisory Board, composed of four highly experienced veterinarians. This board provides critical oversight and guidance, ensuring that all medical decisions are made by qualified and credentialed veterinarians and align with the best interests of the pets and families we serve.
The Medical Advisory Board works closely with our veterinarians and veterinary technicians to uphold the highest standards of care. From establishing protocols for hospice and palliative care to refining pain management strategies, their expertise ensures that our services remain at the forefront of end-of-life veterinary care.
By leaning into the strengths of every team member, Hampton Roads Veterinary Hospice continues to set the standard for excellence in at-home end-of-life veterinary care. Because at the heart of what we do, it’s not just about caring for pets—it’s about caring for families, too.
Contact us to learn more about our compassionate end-of-life services.
