Introduction to Animal Hospice with Ella Bittel, DVM (SPIRITS in Transition)

Many of us think of our animal companions as family members. The event of an animal dying can be as similarly challenging as losing a human loved one. Hospice in the human field has grown to provide a much needed service to the dying and the ones who care for them. To find such support when it's a beloved animal that is close to the end of its' life can be difficult. Not every veterinarian offers hospice care and house visits, and can be reached at all those times that burning questions arise for the caretaker. While we strive to lend an open ear and practical advice with our e-mail and phone help line, this can not possibly replace preparing ourselves internally and externally for this very special time our animals life.

To have euthanasia available to shorten an animal's life can be of great benefit. Yet many animals have a remarkable will to live out their lives even if they may experience physical discomfort. This can easily be overlooked when our sole focus is on not wanting the animal to suffer. Being unfamiliar with the natural dying process leaves people feeling helpless, and final decisions are made from a state of fear.

The seminar SPIRITS in Transition is designed to give tools to people who consider providing end-of-life care for their animal companion. As no one really knows when the need for that may arrive, it is never too early to learn about the special needs of dying animals and what is important in animal hospice.

Samples of topics covered in the seminar SPIRITS in Transition:

* Re-evaluating common reasons for euthanasia
* Situations commonly encountered during hospice care
* Holistic approaches to pain relief
* Reducing the risk of cancer for our pet
* Creating an environment conducive to a peaceful transition, whether death occurs naturally or through euthanasia
* The stages of the natural dying process
* How scientific research on subtle energy aspects of the dying process ties in with the insights of ancient masters
* Supporting ourselves and grieving animal family members

Cost: $395 (Maximum 12 students)