November marks Animal Hospice Awareness Month, a time to acknowledge the vital role veterinary professionals play in guiding families through advanced illness, serious diagnoses, and end-of-life decision-making. At IAAHPC, our mission is to elevate and support this deeply meaningful work.
Hospice vs. Palliative Care: What Veterinary Teams Should Know
Palliative care focuses on comfort, symptom management, and quality of life at any stage of illness. Hospice care is reserved for terminally ill patients approaching the end of life, with an emphasis on honoring the pet’s comfort and the family’s goals.
Both approaches help:
- Manage chronic pain and mobility challenges
- Support families through anticipatory grief
- Provide guidance when evaluating quality of life
- Ensure pets experience dignity and comfort throughout their journey
Empowering Decisions Through Quality-of-Life Tools
IAAHPC provides tools to help both veterinary teams and families make compassionate, informed choices:
- Quality-of-Life Scales
- Pain Assessment Resources
- Tracking Calendars for daily changes
These tools support consistent communication, thoughtful planning, and a shared understanding of a pet’s needs.
Continuing Education & Certification
Veterinary professionals looking to expand their skills can explore:
- CHPV Certification (Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Veterinarian)
- CHPT Certification (Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Technician)
- Year-round online CE covering hospice-supported natural death, quality-of-life assessment, symptom management, caregiver communication, and more
These programs deepen clinical competency while strengthening the emotional and relational skills essential to this work.
Finding a Hospice or Palliative Care Professional
Families seeking specialized support can use the IAAHPC Member Directory as well as our other resources to connect with professionals trained in hospice, palliative care, and end-of-life guidance.
Supporting Animals. Supporting Families. Supporting You.
Animal Hospice Awareness Month is ultimately about honoring the bond shared between pets and people — and recognizing the essential role veterinary professionals play during life’s hardest moments.
IAAHPC is here to provide tools, education, and a supportive professional community as you continue this important work.
Explore IAAHPC resources, tools, and certification opportunities at iaahpc.org.