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Lifetime care programs: a viable option for pet owners who may not have a potential caregiver to leave their pets to
The following is a directory organized alphabetically by state of facilities and organizations. PetGuardian provides this list as a resource but does not endorse or recommend any specific facility. Please review the section below should you consider this option. Should you have feedback on this section, please send an email to feedback@petguardian.com.
Lifetime Care Listing: US Northeast
Lifetime Care Listing: US Southeast
Lifetime Care Listing: US Midwest
Lifetime Care Listing: US Northwest
Lifetime Care Listing: US Southwest
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Considerations you should think about before selecting a Lifetime Care Program
Thoroughly evaluate a facility or program before you “sign up”. You should consider engaging an attorney to finalize the arrangements or contract with the program you select. If the program sounds like a good fit for your pets do visit the facility before making your final decision.
The following is a list of questions to ask the organization you are considering:
How long has the program existed? How is the program funded? Is the program appropriately licensed? What happens to the pets if the program is unable to continue? What is the relative experience and training of the employees and owners? What is the pet to person ratio? How much human attention does each pet receive on a daily basis?
What is the financial commitment required for each pet? How much has to be paid in advance?
What is their capacity for pets? What are the physical conditions of the facility? What type of space do the pets have (IE are they kept in cages)?
Are there references you can discuss the program with?
Are pets adopted out or do they remain at a facility permanently? What does their adoption process entail? How do they follow up with adoptions? What is the programs policy about returning pets?
What level of veterinary care is provided? Is veterinary care administered by licensed veterinarians or by interns? Do pets receive regular examinations? How are medical emergencies handled? What is their position on euthanasia? (You might consider meeting the veterinarians that support the program)
What type of food do they feed their pets? When are the pets fed? Will they accommodate special diets?
What type of exercise routine is typical for the pets in their care?
Does the program accept pets regardless of age and medical needs?
Will they honor special burial requests?
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