A calm, vet-led quality of life assessment for your dog or cat — in your own home, across the Cotswolds. We help you understand your pet's comfort and find clarity, with no obligation to decide anything on the day.
One of the hardest parts of loving an older or unwell pet is the question that has no easy answer: are they still happy, and how will I know when they're not? Many owners tell us they fear acting too soon — and just as many fear leaving it too late. A quality of life assessment exists to take that weight off your shoulders.
It is a structured, compassionate conversation and gentle clinical examination, carried out at home by Emma Wilkes BVetMed MRCVS (RCVS No. 6585433), a veterinary surgeon since 2010 with a particular interest in geriatric care. Rather than relying on a feeling alone, we look at your pet's comfort objectively — and then talk you through, honestly, what we see.
An assessment is not a decision. Sometimes it reassures you that your pet still has good days ahead, and helps you plan how to protect them. Sometimes it confirms what your heart already suspected, and gives you the confidence to let go gently. Either way, you leave with clarity instead of guesswork — and there is never any pressure to proceed.
A Framework, Not a Feeling
Vets often use a recognised quality of life framework — sometimes summarised as the HHHHHMM scale — to assess a pet's wellbeing across seven areas. We use it as a starting point for an honest conversation about your individual pet, not as a rigid score.
Is your pet's pain well controlled? Can they breathe comfortably? Adequate pain relief is the foundation of good quality of life.
Are they eating enough, willingly? Has appetite faded, or do they need hand-feeding or coaxing to eat at all?
Are they drinking enough and staying hydrated? Dehydration is common in unwell pets and affects how they feel day to day.
Can they stay clean and comfortable? Pets who can no longer groom themselves, or who soil where they lie, can lose dignity and develop sores.
Do they still show joy — a greeting, a wag, interest in you or their surroundings? Or do they seem withdrawn, anxious, or disconnected?
Can they move enough to do what they need to — get up, go outside, change position? Or are they struggling, falling, or unable to rise?
Perhaps the most telling measure of all. When the good days clearly outnumber the bad, quality of life is being maintained. When bad days begin to outnumber the good — and the things your pet loved are no longer possible — it is a sign that their quality of life is declining.
What to Watch For
Every animal is different, and a single sign rarely tells the whole story. But these are the changes owners most often notice. If several feel familiar, an assessment can help you make sense of them.
You don't need to wait until things are clearly wrong. If you've noticed changes and simply aren't sure what they mean, that uncertainty is reason enough to ask. We're always happy to talk things through first — call or WhatsApp 01666 719049, with no obligation.
What's Included
We come to you, so your pet is assessed where they're most relaxed — no stressful car journey or clinic waiting room. We work at your pace, with no rush.
Emma examines your pet thoroughly and reviews their history, comfort, mobility, appetite and behaviour — using the quality of life framework alongside her clinical judgement.
We tell you what we genuinely see — clearly and compassionately. We'll discuss options for keeping your pet comfortable, and what to expect next, whatever you decide.
You receive a written summary of the assessment, and — if you'd like — we communicate directly with your regular vet so everyone caring for your pet is aligned.
The Process
Simple, calm, and entirely without pressure — so you can focus on your pet.
Call or WhatsApp 01666 719049. We'll talk through your concerns and arrange a time that suits you.
Emma visits your home and gently assesses your pet in their own familiar surroundings.
We talk you through what we've found, answer every question, and explain your options — with no rush and no pressure.
You receive a written report and, if you wish, we liaise with your regular vet. Whatever you decide, we're here.
Transparent Pricing
All prices include the home visit. We are always upfront about costs before you commit to anything. A quality of life assessment carries no obligation to proceed to anything further.
Home visit, full clinical assessment, written report, and communication with your regular vet.
Should the time be right, a peaceful, dignified farewell at home — only ever at your pace. Learn more →
Common Questions
If you're worried about your pet, or simply unsure what to do next, please reach out. We'll listen, and help you find clarity — gently, and with no pressure whatsoever.