When In-Person Isn’t Possible, Compassion Still Finds a Way
Not every pet parent can meet face-to-face with a veterinarian when their animal is nearing the end of life. Sometimes, the barrier is distance — even just a town over. Other times, it’s timing, finances, or unexpected life events like illness or scheduling conflicts.
That’s where telehospice comes in.
At Peaceful Paws At Home Care, we’ve seen how virtual consultations can offer comfort, clarity, and direction to families unsure of what to do next. While in-home euthanasia is our specialty, telehospice is often the first step in helping families navigate uncertainty — with professional, compassionate support right from home.
This blog explores what telehospice is, when it’s most helpful, and how it’s made a meaningful difference for Southeast Michigan families facing difficult decisions.
What Is Telehospice?
Telehospice is a virtual veterinary appointment — by phone or video — designed to help pet parents assess their animal’s comfort, ask questions, and discuss end-of-life care options.
These appointments are ideal when:
- You’re not sure if it’s “time” yet
- Your schedule doesn’t allow for an immediate in-home visit
- You need professional insight before moving forward
- You want to talk things through in a safe, supportive space
You’ll meet directly with Dr. Miskena, who brings 15+ years of hospice expertise to each conversation — without pressure, judgment, or rushed answers.
Real Stories From Southeast Michigan Families
Case Study #1: A Ferndale Family Finds Clarity in the Chaos
Client: Sarah, a mom of three and high school teacher
Pet: Jasper, a 16-year-old cat with thyroid disease and arthritis
Sarah had been managing Jasper’s care for over a year, but recently noticed he’d stopped grooming, wasn’t eating well, and was hiding under the couch for most of the day. Between work and family life, she struggled to find time for an in-person vet visit.
“I just needed someone to walk me through it. I didn’t want to make the wrong decision.”
In a 40-minute telehospice call, Dr. Miskena reviewed Jasper’s daily behavior, helped Sarah evaluate his quality of life, and explained what signs to watch for in the coming days. Together, they decided to monitor Jasper for another 24–48 hours while preparing for a possible in-home euthanasia visit.
Outcome:
Jasper was euthanized peacefully at home two days later. Sarah said the telehospice call gave her time to process — and to say goodbye on her own terms.
Case Study #2: Southfield Support During a Scheduling Conflict
Client: Marcus, a full-time caregiver for his elderly father
Pet: Tyson, a 12-year-old boxer mix with advanced cancer
Marcus called Peaceful Paws on a Thursday afternoon, concerned about Tyson’s heavy panting, restlessness, and lack of appetite. Our next available in-home appointment was the following morning — but he was unsure if waiting that long was right for Tyson.
Dr. Miskena scheduled a same-evening telehospice consult, where he guided Marcus through an at-home assessment: watching Tyson’s breathing, responsiveness, and posture on video. They discussed how to keep Tyson calm overnight and what to expect during the final transition.
“I was scared I’d be making him wait in pain. But after that call, I knew what to watch for — and that we were doing the right thing.”
Outcome:
Tyson was euthanized the next morning at home. Marcus said the telehospice visit gave him peace of mind and helped prepare both him and his father for the goodbye.
Case Study #3: Hazel Park Guidance After-Hours
Client: Alicia, a young professional living alone with her senior rescue cat, Beans
Pet: Beans, 15, declining rapidly with kidney failure
Late one weekday evening, Alicia noticed that Beans had stopped using the litter box, was refusing water, and had labored breathing. She didn’t want to panic, but her regular vet was closed — and she needed support.
While we couldn’t do an in-home visit at that hour, Alicia was offered a first-thing telehospice consult the next morning. She accepted.
“Just knowing I’d be talking to someone who understood helped me sleep that night.”
During the video call, Dr. Miskena helped Alicia assess Beans’ behavior and comfort level, and scheduled a same-day euthanasia visit.
Outcome:
Beans passed peacefully in her favorite sunny spot at home that afternoon. Alicia later shared that having a professional guide her through the steps helped her feel “like I didn’t fail Beans — I honored her.”
When Is Telehospice the Right Step?
Telehospice is an excellent option if:
- You live within Southeast Michigan but can’t coordinate an immediate home visit
- You want professional advice before scheduling euthanasia
- Your pet is experiencing new or worsening symptoms
- You need emotional and medical clarity without feeling rushed
- You want to talk through options as a family before deciding
Our consultations typically last 30–45 minutes, and include a full conversation about your pet’s symptoms, comfort, and quality of life — plus a clear outline of your next steps.
What Families Say About the Experience
“I felt so seen, even over the phone.”
“The telehospice call gave me time to breathe and think before making the hardest call of my life.”
“It helped me feel like I was making the right decision — not just the fastest one.”
How to Schedule a Telehospice Consultation
We make it easy:
- Call us: (248) 721-8667
- Email us: info@peacefulpawsathomecare.com
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8AM–7PM
Let us know you’d like to schedule a virtual consultation. We’ll walk you through the process, send clear instructions, and help you prepare for the call.
Compassion Is Always Within Reach
We may not be able to visit every home the moment you call — but that doesn’t mean you’re without support. Telehospice bridges the gap with heart, professionalism, and peace-of-mind — especially in the moments when you need them most.
If you’re wondering what to do next, let’s talk. You don’t have to figure it out alone.