Ep 18: Hospice Care & Euthanasia with Dr. Sheilah Robertson of Lap of Love

Hiss & Tell: Cat Behavior and Beyond

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What are the critical elements of providing compassionate end-of-life care for pets? Join us as we explore this profound topic with Dr. Sheila Robertson, the Senior Medical Director for Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice. With her extensive background in anesthesia and pain management, Dr. Robertson offers invaluable insights into proper sedation procedures before euthanasia, the emotional impact of these practices on pet owners, and the need for more compassionate approaches in veterinary medicine.
Discover how alternatives to traditional sedation shots, such as gabapentin and the innovative pre-gabalin liquid Bonquat, can ease the stress of veterinary visits for cats. Dr. Robertson shares practical advice on managing chronic pain and hyperesthesia in feline patients using oral medications like buprenorphine. We also highlight the benefits of in-home euthanasia and the creative outdoor euthanasia practices adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to provide a peaceful and familiar environment for pets and their owners.
Finally, we delve into the emotional aspects of saying goodbye to a beloved pet and the importance of respectful aftercare. From guiding pet owners through cremation or burial choices to understanding the concept of the peak-end rule, Dr. Robertson emphasizes creating comforting last memories. We discuss the balance between physical health and emotional well-being for pets and explore the rewarding yet complex role of veterinarians in this field. This episode is a heartfelt guide for pet owners navigating the challenging journey of their pets' end-of-life care.

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1. Introduction and Background (00:00:00)

2. Interest in Veterinary Hospice (00:02:50)

3. Importance of Sedation in Euthanasia (00:08:38)

4. Alternatives to Sedation Shot (00:13:24)

5. Lap of Love and Veterinary Hospice Services (00:26:00)

6. Creating a Positive Experience (00:36:00)

7. Quality of Life and End-of-Life Care (00:36:14)

8. The Importance of the Final Moments (00:38:00)

9. Post-Euthanasia Support (00:41:35)

10. Quality of Life Assessment Tool (00:49:43)

11. Home Euthanasia and Hospice Care (00:51:11)

12. The Feline Grimace Scale (00:56:00)

13. Coping with the Emotional Challenges of Veterinary Medicine (00:59:00)

14. The Importance of End-of-Life Education (01:03:00)