If you know someone who cares for an invalid, you’ve seen the emotional toll it takes. That toll is real — whether the invalid is a person or a pet.
Results of a recent study showed that compared to parents of healthy pets, caregivers of pets with chronic or terminal disease were substantially more stressed, had a poorer quality of life and were more apt to be depressed and anxious.
There’s no doubt that caregiver burden is serious. That’s why pet caregivers need support from their veterinarian, family, friends — even their physicians.
And if you’re a caregiver, be sure to take care of yourself. Understand your pet’s disease and what to expect. Make sure you have the skills to handle the necessary care. Above all, ask for help when you need it and make time for the things you love — even if it sometimes means getting a pet sitter.