Haven Veterinary Hospice and Senior Care

30/08/2024

A few months before Roxie’s last day, I was grateful to have found Dr Hill of Haven. Because of her two years post veterinary training, coupled with her innate compassion and kindness, she helped guide me and my family through this most difficult time of saying goodbye to our beloved Roxie Rocks.

Because of Dr Hill’s knowledge and wisdom, we were able to have a beautiful send off for our precious Roxie of 16 years and 78 days. We will be forever grateful to you, Dr Hill. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Jayan Landry PhD, MSN, APRN-BC

29/08/2024

Understanding and navigating grief is a journey not taken alone, especially when it comes to helping our little ones cope with the loss of a pet. 🐾 At Haven Veterinary Hospice, we're committed to providing resources that support both parents and children through these tough times.

We've carefully selected books aimed at fostering open conversations and healing in the hearts of bereaved families:

“Talking About Death: A Dialogue Between Parent and Child” by E. Grollman - A guide to help parents communicate about the concept of death in a nurturing way.
“When Children Grieve” by J.W. James - Insights into understanding and supporting children through their unique grieving processes.
“Healing the Bereaved Child” by A. Wolfelt, PhD - An exploration of strategies to aid children in finding their path through loss.
Let these resources be your guide to healing, providing comfort and understanding as you and your family navigate the path of grief together. 💙

More resources: havenvethospice.com/grief-resources

29/08/2024

🌟 Proud to be a family-owned business! 🌟

Here’s a snapshot of Kelly, Matt, and their daughter at Pet Rock in the Park, representing Haven Veterinary Hospice and Tranquil Waters.

🐾 We're more than just a business—we’re a family, dedicated to caring for your furry loved ones with the same love & attention we give our own. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth and supported local businesses. Together, we make our community stronger! 💙

28/08/2024

We share this memorial in honor of and with support for the family of Roxie. ❤️ 🌈

From her family: "Roxie was a beloved member of The Allen Belanger family.
Roxie lost her battle with breast cancer on Friday, August 23rd. Ever since Roxie was a puppy she loved going for her car rides didn't matter if it was 3 minutes or 2 hours, she loved walking on the beach but did not like to get her little paws wet.

She loved to cuddle with her mother Kelly all day all night you could not separate them she was the love of Roxie's life, she also loved to sunbathe it didn't matter where as long as she had a beam of sun. She knew when you didn't feel good to cuddle up at your feet or knees just wanting a little attention to try to make you feel better. All she needed in life to keep her happy was Kelly a puppy slim Jim and chicken nuggets those three things made Roxie Love life.

And Roxy saved our lives as much as we did hers. The best emotional friend buddy companion that anyone could ask for they'll never be another dog like her."

27/08/2024

Laser therapy, aka Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, occurs when a dose of light energy reaches target tissue and results in decreased inflammation, decreased pain, and accelerated healing.

According to Companion Animal Health:

“Laser Therapy is a clinically proven and FDA-cleared treatment that reduces inflammation resulting in pain reduction. Laser Therapy is effective in treating acute pain, wounds, chronic conditions, and post-operative pain.

Laser therapy treatment is safe, painless, and fast. Treatments to deeper tissues are administered in 5 to 10 minutes. Typically, even chronic patients exhibit improvement after 3 to 5 treatment sessions. Laser therapy utilizes the body’s own healing powers by stimulating cellular activity.

Despite short treatment times, laser therapy treatments initiate a healing process that continues to actively reduce inflammation for up to 24 hours after treatment.”

Learn more: havenvethospice.com

26/08/2024

Happy International Dog Day! 🐶

Today, we honor our loyal canine companions, especially the older dogs who have given us years of unconditional love. At Haven Veterinary Hospice, we're dedicated to ensuring our senior dogs enjoy their golden years in comfort and happiness. Share a photo of your senior dog and let us know what makes them special! 🐕💕

24/08/2024

Gone but forever in our hearts. 🌈

23/08/2024

🎸🐾 Join us at Pet Rock in the Park! 🐾🎸
We’re thrilled to be a sponsor of this fun-filled event! Bring your furry friends and enjoy a day of music, food, and pet-friendly activities!

📅 When: Sunday, August 25th
⏰ Time: 11 am - 3 pm
📍 Where: Deering Oaks Park, Portland, ME

We can’t wait to see you there! 🐶

21/08/2024

A super helpful tool for evaluating Canine Cognitive Dysfunction

🔔 Helpful Resource Alert: Check out this Cognitive Dysfunctions Syndrome Evaluation Tool from Purina

Explore all the helpful resources for pet hospice & end-of-life care we've collated: https://iaahpc.org/helpful-links/

19/08/2024

We are proud to serve Southern Maine pets!

15/08/2024

We share this memorial in honor of and with support for Jasper's family.

From his family: "Our Jasper. While we can't claim he was the smartest dog, he was without a doubt the absolute sweetest. He was such a mischievous puppy (chewing countless shoes, books and even a kitchen wall) but grew up to be the best boy. He didn't enjoy the things that most labs do...fetch, long walks or water, but he loved to run away from you for hours if you happened to let him off leash. We have many memories of luring him back inside by scattering most of our groceries on the lawn and steps. Though Jasper was never a swimmer, on the evening of our farewell beach visit, he paddled his way along the shore like he had done it every day of his life. We all loudly cheered at the water's edge, shocked and so proud. Thirteen years was not enough time with our boy and we will miss him forever. "

Join us in remembering a cherished life. Today, we honor Jasper, a beloved companion and treasured friend.

14/08/2024

Thank you for entrusting us with your beloved kitty's care and sharing your experience, William. It's our honor to help families say goodbye in the comfort of their homes where their pets are most comfortable and surrounded by love.

13/08/2024

We share this memorial in honor of and with support for the family of Rosie.

From her family: "Our beloved Rosie has crossed over to the rainbow bridge. Surrounded by her family, she left this world peacefully, enveloped in love. We’ll forever cherish her velveteen ears, her angelic spirit, and her playful mischief, especially when she nibbled on Jennie’s garden flowers. Rosie’s joy for any body of water, her frolics on grass and snow, and her lively chases with Gracie in the backyard will remain in our hearts. She was our vigilant guardian, always pausing to smell the flowers.

Our Rosa-Rita-Refried-Beans had a special love for treats and brought us countless years of happiness. She was Jake’s best friend from the age of 12, and her big Rosie grin and soft pink belly were sources of constant joy. Rosie-Roo, our sweet girl, sweet dreams. We will miss you dearly, but you will live in our hearts forever."

Celebrating a life well-loved, today we share the memories of Rosie, as lovingly recounted by her family. Their tale is one of friendship, love, and unforgettable moments.

12/08/2024

🌟 At Haven Veterinary Hospice & Senior Care, we believe in providing compassionate care for your beloved pets during their most tender moments. Our comprehensive veterinary hospice services are designed to offer comfort, support, and understanding for both pets and their families. From mobility support to pain management, every aspect of our care is tailored to enhance the quality of life and ensure a peaceful journey. ❤️🐾

Let's cherish these precious moments together, giving them the love and comfort they deserve. 🐶🐱

09/08/2024

We share this memorial in honor of and with support for the family of Gracie.

From her family: "Gracie May Brown was the best girl. She cared for and loved her family unconditionally for 16 1/2 years. She loved watching over her human children like her own. She gave her family more than a lifetime of memories and they hope she will continue to watch over them from above. 🌈"

Join us in remembering a cherished life. Today, we honor Gracie, a beloved companion and treasured friend.

08/08/2024

Happy International Cat Day!

Today, we celebrate all the wonderful cats, especially our senior feline friends. At Haven Veterinary Hospice, we believe every stage of life is precious. Let's give our older cats the love, comfort, and care they deserve. Share a picture of your beloved senior cat and tell us how they brighten your life! 🐱❤️

07/08/2024

We share this memorial in honor of and with support for the family of Ballard. We invite you to read the heartfelt tribute by his family which beautifully reflects the bond they shared. Their story is a testament to the love and companionship pets provide.

From his family: "Ballard was a Maine lab rescue from a kill shelter in Georgia. I adopted him as a pup. He lived on a river and lake. He became frizzbee dog. We will love and miss him forever."

07/08/2024

Caring for our pets means understanding their non-verbal cues. Pain can often be silent and unseen, but there are signs that can help you recognize when your furry family member is suffering 🐾. It’s important to note changes in their behavior as they may indicate discomfort or health issues.

Here are the eight most common signs of pain in pets:

🐕 Not going up or down stairs: A pet avoiding stairs could be a sign of joint pain or weakness.

🚫 Reluctance to jump up onto surfaces: If your pet is hesitant to jump onto their favorite spots, it may point to hip or back pain.

🤕 Difficulty standing after lying down: Trouble getting up can indicate stiffness or discomfort, possibly from conditions like arthritis.

🍽️ Decreased appetite: A decrease in eating can signal discomfort or other health issues.

👅 Over-grooming or licking: Pets often lick to soothe themselves. If you notice over-grooming, especially in one area, it could be their way of dealing with pain.

💤 Decreased activity: Less interest in play or movement can be a sign your pet isn’t feeling their best.

If you notice any of these signs in your pet, consult with your veterinarian for a thorough examination and appropriate care. Remember, our pets rely on us to help them live happy and pain-free lives.

05/08/2024

Finding a path through grief after losing a pet can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to walk it alone. 🌟 In our community, we are fortunate to have compassionate professionals dedicated to supporting you through this difficult time. At Haven Veterinary Hospice, we highly recommend these local counselors specializing in pet loss:

Rev. Karen Orr, Scarborough, ME - Offering phone counseling, Rev. Orr provides a listening ear and understanding heart to help you navigate your grief. You can reach out to her via email at [email protected].

Kathy Sherry, MS, LCPCc, Certified Pet Loss Counselor, Pet Loss Pathways, LLC - Kathy brings expertise and empathy to her role as a certified pet loss counselor. For guidance and support, visit petlosspathways.com, contact her via email at [email protected], or call 207-899-6948.

These professionals offer a safe space to express your feelings and begin the healing process. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. 💙

More support: havenvethospice.com/grief-resources

03/08/2024

Our furry friends, souls of pure love. 🐾✨

01/08/2024

We share this memorial in honor of and with support for the family of Gracie.

From her family: "My darling Gracie…my fierce sidekick and very best friend…will be a part of my heart forever. She was sassy, smart, naughty, funny, curious and ALWAYS there for me, lifting me up.

She loved grilled chicken, vanilla ice cream, sniffing every single flower, plant, bush and tree in the yard, and snuggling in her (many) fuzzy blankets. She was a warrior princess…rescue chihuahua extraordinaire…love bug…and the dearest creature who I miss beyond words.

Beyond grateful am I to have had her lighting up my life for 13 of her 18 years!!❤️"

31/07/2024

Happy National Mutt Day! We'd love to see photos of your mutts-- drop them in the comments below!

27/07/2024

Living in the moment, the way every dog teaches us. 🐕💤

25/07/2024

Through years of professional and personal experience caring for animals, Dr. Hill has identified the need to treat animals humanely through all stages of their lives.

Animal hospice includes the following services:

Treatment focused on physical comfort, optimizing quality of life through pain management for your pet, as well as caregiver emotional and educational support. A veterinarian serving as a mentor and guide, enabling families to provide for their pets’ medical and emotional needs at home. Time for families and loved ones to prepare for and provide a peaceful transition towards the end of life.

Dr. Hill works with the family to provide an informed hospice care plan, empowering the entire family to participate in their beloved pet’s end-of-life care. End-of-life decisions are never easy, but they can be built on love and provide a kinder, gentle goodbye.

Learn more: havenvethospice.com

24/07/2024

In the quiet moments of saying goodbye to a beloved pet, we find ourselves navigating a deep, personal journey of love and loss. At Haven Veterinary Hospice, we recognize the profound impact these cherished companions have on our lives. To support you through this time, we've compiled a list of insightful books tailored for adults facing the heartache of pet loss:

“Pet Parents: A Journey Through Unconditional Love and Grief” by Coleen Ellis - A touching exploration of the deep bond between pets and their humans, offering solace and understanding in times of loss.
https://a.co/d/8JBEEFl

“Grieving The Death of a Pet” by Betty Carmack - An empathetic guide through the grieving process, acknowledging the intensity of the emotional pain of losing a pet.
https://a.co/d/1jdisXl

“Sorrow on the Loss of Your Pet” by M. Anderson - A comforting resource offering compassionate advice and strategies for coping with the loss of a beloved animal companion.
https://a.co/d/5zhBxl9

“Pet Loss and Human Bereavement” by W. Kay - Delving into the intricate relationship between pet loss and human grief, this book provides a deeper understanding of the grieving process.
https://a.co/d/baGX5vc

These resources are here to help you through the healing journey, reminding you that you're not alone in your grief. May you find comfort and peace in their pages. 💙

More support: havenvethospice.com/grief-resources

17/07/2024

How to Help Your Grieving Pet

🔄 **Maintain Routines:** Keep walks, feeding times, and other daily activities as consistent as possible to provide a sense of normalcy.

👩‍⚕️ **Consult a Veterinarian:** Reach out to veterinarians, especially those specializing in hospice and palliative care, for guidance. They can help differentiate between grief and medical issues.

🧸 **Offer Comfort:** Provide comforting items like a deceased companion’s belongings that carry their scent. This can offer some solace to your pet.

👀 **Monitor Relationships:** The dynamics among remaining pets may change. Be vigilant and seek professional advice to navigate these shifts smoothly.

🕊️ **Create a Ritual:** A memorial can help with closure, for both pets and pet parents. This shared moment acknowledges the loss and celebrates the life of the departed.

❤️ **Be Kind to Yourself:** Recognize your own grief and allow yourself to mourn. Healing is a journey that you and your pet can take together.

Read our blog for more helpful tips: https://buff.ly/3VhWCU5

15/07/2024

Keep your pets safe and happy this summer with these essential tips from Haven Veterinary Hospice!

1️⃣ Walk or exercise in the morning or evening when it's cooler.
2️⃣ Provide water and shade when outside.
3️⃣ Consider a "summer cut" for your pet's comfort.
4️⃣ Check for ticks and stay updated on preventatives.
5️⃣ Keep chemicals and fertilizers out of reach.
6️⃣ Prevent your pets from drinking stagnant water.
7️⃣ Use a dog life jacket for water activities.

11/07/2024

Losing a pet can be especially challenging for children, who may be experiencing grief for the very first time. 🌈 At Haven Veterinary Hospice, we believe in nurturing young hearts through these moments with understanding, love, and gentle guidance. To help your little ones navigate their feelings, we've selected a range of comforting books tailored to children of various ages.

📖 “The Goodbye Book” by Todd Parr (Ages 2-5) - A simple, heartfelt story that helps the youngest of readers understand and cope with saying goodbye.
https://buff.ly/4bU5mVT

📖 “When a Pet Dies” by Fred Rogers (Ages 4-8) - With kindness and empathy, Mr. Rogers offers support to children dealing with the loss of a pet.
https://buff.ly/4awHBSR

📖 “Dog Heaven” and “Cat Heaven” by Cynthia Rylant (Ages 4-7) - Beautiful, soothing tales of the joyful places our pets go after they leave us, bringing comfort and a sense of peace.
https://buff.ly/4bQdSoT

📖 “The Rainbow Bridge: A Visit to Pet Paradise” by Adrian Raeside (Ages 8-12) - A touching journey to a place where pets run free, helping children grasp the concept of a pet's peaceful afterlife.
https://buff.ly/3WSfuu7

📖 “Remembering My Pet: A Kid’s Own Spiritual Remembering Workbook for When a Pet Dies” by Nechama Liss-Levinson (Ages 8-12) - An interactive workbook that offers children a way to express their feelings and memories.
https://buff.ly/4aAGuSa

📖 “Maddie’s Wings: A Lesson in Love” by Tamera Rickman (Ages 8-12) - A story of love, loss, and the lessons learned from our furry friends.
https://t.ly/7ePFQ

Let these stories be a source of comfort and a bridge to conversations about love, loss, and remembrance for your children. 💙

10/07/2024

A heartfelt thank you to Erin for these kind words. We strive to provide compassionate and comforting care for your beloved pets during their final moments.