| Talking with your Doctor |
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At First
Write down questions you may have before each visit to your pet's doctor.
Take notes during all discussions with the veterinary health care team about your pet's
disease or treatment options. Recite information back to ensure that you understand completely.
Seek support
Bring a friend or spouse with you when you talk to the veterinary health care team.
Include the whole family.
All discussions about your pet should involve everyone who loves your pet,
including family members and children. Allow everyone to ask questions and express
their opinions. Your pet will need the support of the entire family during the treatment phase.
Ask for Printed Materials.
Obtain resources to help you understand your pet's disease and treatment options.
Work with your health care team to understand the validity of all information you obtain.
Research your pet's cancer using the online resources included on this site.
Understand there are no incorrect decisions.
There is no time more difficult than the last days of a pet's life. The decision to
euthanize your friend will not be easy. At this moment, quality and dignity of life become immediate. It is important that your concerns are honored and that you are provided with ample information to make all of the decisions that are ahead. Your entire veterinary health care team will assist you by providing this information as well as a concerned, understanding ear. It is important to remember that you have options available to you. Options may include hospice care, assisted by your veterinary health care team, to reduce pain and suffering until natural death occurs.
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