Tender Paws Hospice

Join us on September 14th, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Assembly of the Wandering Shepherd of the Wandering Shepard for an educational presentation at no cost!

This presentation by Jen Brown of Tender Paws Hospice will delve into what pet hospice is and how it deeply supports and strengthens the Human Animal Bond. Registration is encourage so we can be prepared with enough snacks! Email either [email protected] or [email protected] to register or with questions. Visit Tender Paws Hospice Events website for more information: https://www.tenderpawshospice.com/events

I recently joined Kim Hoshal on PDX Pet Connection as a podcast guest, exploring the facets of pet hospice care. Take a listen and consider sharing it with others who may benefit from this information.

I recently joined Kim Hoshal on PDX Pet Connection as a podcast guest, exploring the facets of pet hospice care. Take a listen and consider sharing it with others who may benefit from this information.
https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/r1INsfMaEMb

New blog post: "Hospice is Courage"

Preparing to say goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy. In our latest blog, we explore why choosing pet hospice care takes immense courage and love.

For pet owners facing tough decisions, you're not alone. Read our full post for support and insights:
https://www.tenderpawshospice.com/blog/hospice-is-courage
Have you had experience with pet hospice? Share your thoughts below.

Today is Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day - a time to honor and celebrate the pets we've loved and lost.

To all the furry, feathered, and scaled friends who've crossed the rainbow bridge: You may no longer be by our side, but you're forever in our hearts. Your unconditional love, loyalty, and the joy you brought into our lives continue to inspire us.

Whether it's been days, months, or years since you've said goodbye, today is a day to cherish those precious memories. Share a photo, light a candle, or simply take a moment to remember the special bond you shared.

To those grieving: Your pain is a testament to the depth of your love. Be kind to yourself today. Grief is hard, and there are resources that can help. Please send us a message to find out more.

In the comments, feel free to share a memory or photo of your beloved pet who has crossed the rainbow bridge. Let's create a space of love and support for each other.

🌈🐾

Harley is here to wish you a Happy National Dog Day! 🐾

Today we celebrate our loyal, furry companions who bring so much joy and love into our lives. Whether your pup is a cuddly lapdog, an energetic ball of fun, or a wise old soul, they deserve all the belly rubs and treats today!

Let's take a moment to appreciate the unconditional love, endless entertainment, and loyal friendship our canine pals provide. From their excited tail wags when we come home to their comforting presence during tough times, dogs truly are our best friends.

How are you celebrating your four-legged friend today? Share a photo of your dog in the comments!

So, what is ? Rural Area Veterinary Services is an organization within the Humane Society of The United States that brings high quality, no-cost veterinary care to underserved communities. As the name suggests, these communities are rural with either no access or extremely limited access to veterinary care. Through setting up a field clinic, veterinary and veterinary technician students receive mentoring and training from RAVS employees and professional volunteers. All this while witnessing the direct impact of giving their time to community service. Check out their website to learn more, and consider donating to their vital work!
https://www.humanesociety.org/RAVS

Entering pet hospice care is an act of profound love and bravery. As caregivers, we face one of life's most challenging moments - choosing comfort and quality of life for our furry family members in their end-of-life journey.

It takes immense courage to:
- Accept that our time together is limited
- Prioritize our pet's needs over our desire to hold on
- Navigate difficult medical decisions
- Provide round-the-clock care while managing our own emotions
- Create joyful moments amidst the sadness

To all those caring for pets in hospice: Your strength does not go unnoticed. Your selflessness is a testament to the deep bond you share. Remember to be gentle with yourself during this journey.

The clinic on the Standing Rock Reservation wrapped up yesterday, after providing crucial treatments to 502 animals over five days. The clinic performed 197 spay and neuter surgeries, vaccinated and administered parasite prevention to 302 dogs and cats, and removed porcupine quills from three dogs. The organization’s tireless efforts and compassionate approach made it possible for these pets to receive life-protecting treatments. I am honored to be associated with such a remarkable initiative. This week, I will share more information about their work and the wide-spread impact it has.

The clinic on the Standing Rock Reservation wrapped up yesterday, after providing crucial treatments to 502 animals over five days. The clinic performed 197 spay and neuter surgeries, vaccinated and administered parasite prevention to 302 dogs and cats, and removed porcupine quills from three dogs. The organization's tireless efforts and compassionate approach made it possible for these pets to receive life-protecting treatments. I am honored to be associated with such a remarkable initiative. This week, I will share more information about their work and the wide-spread impact it has.

This week, I am spending my time volunteering with on the Standing Rock Reservation providing much-needed veterinary care at no cost. Today alone, we were able to spay or neuter 50 dogs and cats, as well as provide vaccines and parasite prevention to many more. If I take a little longer to reply to messages this week, you can blame it on these sweet creatures!

Senior pet safety at home: Quick tips! 🏠🐾

-Add non-slip mats on slippery floors (yoga mats work great!)
-Create multiple water stations throughout the house
-Install nightlights for better visibility
-Use baby gates to block stairs and create safe zones
-Provide cozy, quiet retreat areas

What changes have you made for your aging furry friend? Share below! 👇

📢 New Blog Post Alert! 📢

"Creating a Senior-Friendly Home: A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Parents"

Our latest blog dives deep into adapting your home for your aging furry companions. Learn about:

Non-slip flooring solutions
Easy access to necessities
Comfortable resting areas
Stair assistance options
And much more!
Whether you have a senior dog or cat, this guide is packed with practical tips to enhance their comfort and safety.

Follow this link to read the full post and start creating the perfect haven for your senior https://www.tenderpawshospice.com/blog/adapting-your-home-for-senior-dogs-and-cats

Have questions? Reach out by email, text, or message!

Did you know there are in-home pain assessment tools for pets?

The Feline Grimace Scale helps cat caregivers feel confident in evaluating pain, and there's even an app for that! Find it here: https://www.felinegrimacescale.com/

Colorado State University has a dog pain scale used by many veterinary professionals that can be used at home. Find it here:https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/vth/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2020/12/canine-pain-scale.pdf

These can help you see changes in your senior pet's comfort. Ask us about using these and other tools to monitor your furry friend's well-being!

Taking time away allows caregivers of chronically ill or terminal pets to recharge, reduce stress, and return with renewed energy and focus to provide the best possible care for their beloved animals. Finding reliable caregivers who know what to do and how to do it will help you truly relax when away from your pet.

I know it’s hard, and I make myself practice what I preach. In fact, right now, I’m away on a family vacation recharging my own batteries. You should be planning your time away as well. I’m happy to discuss with you options for care for your own pet so you to can take a break (when I’m back that is…😁)

With the current heat wave here in the PNW, we wanted to take a moment to remind everyone that senior pets are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Here's a few way to protect your senior pets from extreme heat!

Provide constant access to fresh water.
Keep them indoors during peak hours and take shorter walks.
Never leave them in parked cars.
Watch for signs of heat stroke (excessive panting, drooling, lethargy).
Create cool spots with damp towels or cooling mats.

Do you have any favorite tricks to keep your pets cool?

Is your senior pet hiding or becoming withdrawn? This isn’t always bad, but it could be a sign that they're in pain. Learn more about the subtle cues your furry friend may be giving you in my new blog post: https://www.tenderpawshospice.com/blog/recognizing-pain-and-discomfort-in-senior-pets-what-every-pet-caregiver-should-know

Loving a senior pet is incredibly rewarding, and I'm sure you'll agree that their comfort becomes your top priority. From cozy bedding to pain management, I'm here to help you create a safe and nurturing environment for your furry friend. Whether they need hospice care or just some extra support, I'm happy to consult with you on caring for your senior companion. 🛏️💊

Safety first for senior pets! Add rugs for traction, clear obstacles, and maintain a predictable routine to reduce anxiety and fall risks. Slippery floors? Try yoga mats or toe grips. Small modifications create a secure environment for your aging companion. Read my blog for home safety guidance!

This month we are sharing tons of ideas for helping maintain a safe and health environment for your senior pets. Slip-resistant flooring, easy access to essentials, and a comfortable bed are just a few of the ways you can make your senior pet's environment more accommodating. Discover more tips in our new blog article! 🛏️🥫

As your pet ages, their needs change. It’s always so stressful worrying about if your pet is suffering or not. I work closely with you and your vet to modify exercise, diet, and care plans accordingly. Proper senior pet care promotes quality of life and helps your furry friend thrive in their golden years. Check out this interesting article about identifying common signs of pain in pets. https://bit.ly/3Rco2se.

Make your home senior pet-friendly! Provide ramps/steps for accessing beds and couches. Choose supportive foam bedding over plush. Elevate food/water bowls for ease. These accessibility changes can make a big difference for arthritic or mobility-limited pets. Check out my blog for more ideas!

We’re excited to share we’ve recently joined the Washington County Chamber of Commerce!

The Washington County Chamber of Commerce welcomes Tender Paws Home Hospice for Pets as a new member!

About Tender Paws Hospice:
Tender Paws Hospice is an in-home pet hospice service, and care is provided by a Credentialed Veterinary Technician in collaboration with the family veterinarian. The role of hospice and palliative care is to provide as much comfort physically, mentally, and spiritually as possible to both the pet and caregivers. Oftentimes, veterinary clinics aren't able to spend a substantial amount of time guiding pet caregivers through the end-of-life period with their pets. Tender Paws bridges that gap, assisting in assessing quality of life of both the pet and caregivers, helping ensure the home environment is senior-friendly and safe, and facilitating end-of-life planning. Care is unique and adapted to the needs of caregivers and their pet.

Learn more on their website: www.tenderpawshospice.com

Calling all cat lovers! Did you know that older cats may have difficulty jumping up to their favorite spots due to arthritis?

Here's what you can do:

✅ Provide a ramp or steps to help them reach their favorite napping spots

✅ Adjust the height of their cat tree to make it more accessible

✅ Move their litter box and food/water dishes closer to where they spend most of their time

At Tender Paws Home Hospice for Pets, we understand the unique needs of senior pets. If you need support in caring for your aging feline friend, our team is here to help. Send us a message or email today! [email protected]

🐾 Caring for a senior pet requires a different approach than a young, healthy one. Here are some strategies to support your aging furry friend:

✅ Maintain daily walks, even if shorter and slower

✅ Provide mental engagement with new toys or games

✅ Ensure accessibility to favorite naps spots, food, and water

✅ Choose supportive bedding and consider heated options

✅ Elevate food and water dishes for easier access

✅ Improve home safety by adding rugs and maintaining a consistent routine

If you need guidance in caring for your senior pet, our team at Tender Paws Home Hospice for Pets is here to help. Send us a message or give us a call today! 📞

Your senior pet may be hiding their pain, but there are subtle signs you can look out for. If we are working together already I can help you learn how to look for and identify signs of pain. If you aren’t a current client I recommend you seek the advice of your regular veterinarian if you haven’t already. If you are interested in my services for your senior pet please contact me. I’d love to chat about what I do and how I can help you with the care of your chronically ill or senior pet. [email protected]

Is your furry friend slowing down? Keep them engaged mentally and physically with daily walks, interactive toys, and brain games tailored to their needs. Regular activity improves blood flow and quality of life for aging pets. Read my blog to learn more: https://www.tenderpawshospice.com/blog/strategies-for-improving-your-senior-pets-daily-life !

As our furry friends enter their golden years, their nutritional needs change. Senior pets require higher-quality proteins, fewer calories, and proper vitamin/mineral levels to support aging bodies and minds. Talk to your vet about transitioning to a senior diet formula tailored for your pet's breed and life stage. Proper nutrition can promote mobility, and cognitive health, and extend your quality time together. 🥫🐾

In honor of those that gave their all. We will always remember and thank them.