Pet's Quality of Life Scale
When evaluating the quality of life of your pet, personalized patient and family information is important when reaching an educated, informed, and supported choice that fits not only your pets medical condition but also your wishes and expectations.
In short, quality of life applies not only to the pet; it also applies to you!Score each subsection on a scale of 0-2:
0 = agree with statement (describes my pet)
1 = some changes seen
2 = disagree with statement (does not describe my pet)
Social Functions
__ Desire to be with the family has not changed
__ Interacts normally with family or other pets (i.e.,
no increased aggression or other changes)
Mental Health
__ Enjoys normal play activities
__ Still dislikes the same thing (i.e., still hates the mailman = 0, or doesn't bark at the mailman anymore = 2)
__ No outward signs of stress or anxiety
__ Does not seem confused or apathetic
__ Nighttime activity is normal, no changes seen
Physical Health
__ No changes in breathing or panting patterns
__ No outward signs of pain (excessive panting, pacing, and whining are most commonly seen)
__ Nopacingaroundthehouse
__ My pet's overall condition has not changed recently
Natural Functions
__ Appetite has stayed the same
__ Drinkinghasstayedthesame
__ Normal urination habits
__ Normal bowel movement habits
__ Ability to ambulate (walk around) has stayed the same
Results:
0-8 Quality of life is most likely adequate. No medical intervention required yet, but guidance from your veterinarian may help you identify signs to look for in the future.
9-16 Quality of life is questionable and medical intervention is suggested. Your pet would certainly benefit from veterinary oversight and guidance to evaluate the disease process he/she is experiencing.
17-36 Quality of life is a definite concern. Changes will likely become more progressive and more severe in the near future. Veterinary guidance will help you better understand the end stages of your pet's disease process in order to make a more informed decision of whether to continue hospice care or elect peaceful euthanasia.