In the field of veterinary medicine, providing compassionate and comprehensive end-of-life care for companion animals is an increasingly vital skill. Recognizing this critical need, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) offers the esteemed , a comprehensive course expertly designed for veterinary professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in this sensitive area.
This program, led by the renowned Dr. Kathleen Cooney, is meticulously crafted to immerse participants in contemporary best practices for animal hospice and palliative care. It delivers in-depth knowledge of modern euthanasia techniques, effective palliative care strategies, and essential communication skills for interacting with grieving pet owners. A core emphasis is placed on the paramount importance of sedation to ensure patient comfort, effectively minimizing fear, anxiety, and stress during end-of-life procedures. Furthermore, the program introduces groundbreaking concepts such as ‘euharmony’, pushing the boundaries of compassionate care.
A key objective of the AAHA Animal Hospice & Palliative Care Certification Program is to empower veterinary professionals to redefine their understanding of a ‘good death’ for animals. This involves creating an environment that prioritizes both the emotional and physical well-being of clients and the veterinary staff involved in the euthanasia process. Through the program, participants will gain enhanced skills and a deeper understanding of the emotional and ethical dimensions of end-of-life care. Dr. Cooney shares invaluable insights drawn from her extensive personal and professional experiences, accumulated over years of dedicated practice in this field.
Upon successful completion of the program, participants are awarded the prestigious AAHA Hospice & Palliative Care Champion Digital Badge. This digital badge serves as a testament to their enhanced competence and dedication to providing compassionate and professional end-of-life care. Graduates will emerge with increased confidence, ready to make a profoundly positive impact on the lives of both pets and their devoted owners during these challenging times.
Program Outline:
The AAHA Animal Hospice & Palliative Care Certification Program is structured into three comprehensive parts:
PART 1: The program begins with a foundational understanding of hospice and palliative care principles in veterinary medicine. Participants will delve into the AAHA / IAAHPC’s End of Life Care Guidelines, establishing a robust framework for their practice. This introductory section is RACE (Registry of Approved Continuing Education) approved for 0.5 credits.
PART 2: Focusing on Euthanasia and Hospice Services (modules 1-8), this section provides an in-depth exploration of clinical goals for patients in hospice care. It also addresses the multifaceted emotional, social, and spiritual needs of the animal caregiver. This part of the program is RACE approved for 4.0 credits.
PART 3: End of Life Care Palliative Care in Practice (modules 9-14) guides participants through the specific goals of palliative medicine. The curriculum covers practical techniques for alleviating discomfort and distress in patients, as well as outlining the essential responsibilities that follow an animal’s death. This section is submitted for RACE approval and offers 6.0 credits upon approval.
Program Enrollment Options:
To cater to diverse learning needs and interests, the AAHA Animal Hospice & Palliative Care Certification Program offers flexible enrollment options:
- Complete Course (Euthanasia / Hospice & Palliative Care): The full certification program encompassing all aspects of end-of-life care.
- Euthanasia / Hospice Only: A focused module concentrating specifically on euthanasia and hospice services.
- Palliative Care Only: A specialized module dedicated to the principles and practices of palliative care.
Enrollment Fees:
AAHA Members:
- Complete Course: $200.00
- Hospice Only: $80.00
- Palliative Care Only: $120.00
Non-Members:
- Complete Course: $250.00
- Hospice Only: $100.00
- Palliative Care Only: $150.00
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