Hospice Care & Euthanasia with Dr. Sheilah Robertson
Dr. Sheilah Robertson grew up in Scotland and graduated from Glasgow University. Her career in veterinary medicine spans more than three decades and encompasses numerous roles including a general practitioner, surgery intern, anesthesia trainee, PhD student, clinician, and teacher in university veterinary schools in the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. Dr. Sheilah has held many prestigious positions. She served as a staff member of the animal welfare division at the AVMA. She was part of the AAFP and International Society of Feline Medicine Feline Friendly Nursing Guidelines committee. She has been a two-time member of the American Animal Hospital Association and American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) Pain Management Taskforce. Dr. Sheilah also has served as the president of the American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia.
Dr. Sheilah joined Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice as the Senior Medical Director in 2017. In this role, she supports over 300 veterinarians by providing the latest information on pain management, geriatric and end-of-life care, and presenting continuing education at national conferences and local veterinary medical association meetings.
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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