Carilion Clinic Hospice has announced a new program, “Pet Peace of Mind,” which recognizes and actively supports the unique bond between hospice patients and their pets. The program began in early December and will provide helping hands and financial assistance to patients with pet care needs.
The “Pet Peace of Mind” program allows patients to complete their end of life journey without worrying about their pet’s current or future needs. The initiative provides volunteer pet care services for patients who are unable to care for their pets while on hospice. Services include assistance with pet food, medication and grooming costs, food and cat litter drop-off, veterinary medical needs, pet’s need within the home, transportation to pet appointments, pet placement decisions, and emergency treatment due to accident or life-threatening conditions.
“This new program will allow our patients to keep their pets during a time when they need them the most,” explains Lisa Sprinkel, Senior Director of Carilion Clinic Home Health and Hospice. “Pets offer unconditional love, acceptance, comfort and companionship. We try and help our patients live fully until they die and we feel that pets should be involved in this process.”
Offering “Pet Peace of Mind” places Carilion Clinic Hospice in a select group of other hospice providers that have joined a national network of hospice providers committed to ensuring this important patient need is met.
The program will launch in Roanoke at first, with hopes of extending into the other Carilion Clinic service areas. You can help support this effort through a monetary donation or by becoming a volunteer.
For more information about the “Pet Peace of Mind” program, please call 540-224-4795 or email [email protected].
