Quality of Life Resources
Quality of life looks different for every dog. These tools and resources, developed by veterinary professionals, are designed to help you observe and track your dog's daily comfort. They are not a substitute for veterinary advice, but they can help you prepare for more informed conversations with your veterinarian.
The Canine Comfort Club provides these links as educational resources only. Please consult your veterinarian for clinical advice or end-of-life decisions.
MMVHS Quality of Life Scale- This is another framework created by Dr. Faith Banks, a veterinarian, to help owners assess their pet's quality of life across 14 categories. It includes specific scoring guidelines.
How Will I Know? A Guide from The Ohio State University- This comprehensive guide, created by the Veterinary Medical Center at The Ohio State University, helps owners assess their pet's quality of life and navigate difficult end-of-life decisions, including euthanasia. It includes reflection questions, a quality of life scale worksheet, and guidance for families with children or other pets.
Lap Of Love- Lap of Love provides educational articles on age-related behavior changes in older dogs.
Cognitive Dysfunction in Senior Dogs (VCA)- As dogs age, some may experience changes in memory, awareness, and behavior — a condition known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), similar to dementia or Alzheimer's disease in people. This guide from VCA Animal Hospitals explains common signs to watch for (including disorientation, changes in sleep cycles, and house soiling), how it is diagnosed, and what management options are available.
Education
SPCA Hong Kong – Never Too Old to Love- This SPCA campaign provides a central online space for those experiencing pet loss, including a memorial wall, frequently asked questions, and links to grief support services.
SPCA Pet Loss Support Network- A directory of Hong Kong-based organization offering pet loss support, including counselling services, pet cremation and memorial providers, and pet hospice resources.
HKU Pet Bereavement and Counselling Support- The Department of Social Work and Social Administration at the University of Hong Kong offers a dedicated resource page for pet loss, including information on grief responses and an invitation for expressive writing ("A Letter to My Beloved Companion").