What is RespiteCare?

RespiteCare is a program developed by the All Canadian Pet Services Network to assist pet parents in their time of need.

RespiteCare allows pet parents who will be unable to look after their pets for a brief period of time while they are undergoing medical or surgical treatment, requiring admission to a health facility for a duration of time.

What are the benefits of RespiteCare?

Pet parents who will be away from their pets for medical reasons are assured that their pet is being cared for while they are away, without incurring immense charges for boarding, particularly when income during hospitalization or convalescence may be decreased.

In instances where a person may require long term admission to a facility, pet parents or their families can utilize this service while they find a suitable home for the pet, to prevent unnecessary and heartbreaking surrender to an animal rescue or humane society.

Who is eligible for RespiteCare?

Pet parents who are being admitted to a health facility for acute care treatment of illness, injuries or for surgery are eligible to enroll in RespiteCare for a period of not more than 3 weeks. If the treatment is expected to run longer than the 3 weeks, special consideration may be given and an individual review of the circumstances surrounding the duration will be made.

Pet parents who are being admitted for long term care for permanent residence are eligible to receive RespiteCare for a period of three weeks while a designate seeks a home for the pet. If no arrangements are made or a suitable home cannot be found, the pet care professional may assist in this process, or recommend surrender to an agency.

Who can apply for RespiteCare?

Applications for RespiteCare can be made by the pet parent, a close relative of the pet parent, a medical professional (i.e. doctor, nurse or social worker) involved in the care of the pet parent, or a Care Coordinator at a Community Care Access Centre involved in the placement of the pet parent.

If anyone other than the pet parent is applying for the program, proper documentation must be provided to ACPSN, including a signed agreement for service by the pet parent or power of attorney, a copy of a lease or proof of residence for the home, and documentation from a medical professional (i.e. the physician involved in care) stating the need for treatment and expected duration.

How does the RespiteCare program work?

Upon contacting the ACPSN with some basic information, we will attempt to locate a pet care professional in your area who can provide service. Priority is given to members of ACPSN, however if no members are available, referrals may be made to non-members who meet our verification process.

In planned situations, ACPSN will arrange to meet with the pet parent and the pet care professional in the home. This is a vital part of the process, as the pet will be more comfortable meeting their caregiver in the presence of a parent or family member. In unplanned or urgent situation, if this is not possible, ACPSN will meet with the pet parent or designate to complete the application, then introduce the pet care professional to the animal at the first visit. All standard forms pertaining to the pet and the pet parent are to be completed by the pet parent or alternative before or at the commencement of service. These forms may be completed in duplicate since ACPSN will provide the forms, but the pet care professional may have addition forms required. A service agreement with ACPSN and the pet care professional will be signed.

The pet care professional offers this service (usually twice or three times per day visits) at a reduced cost from their regular rates. Whenever possible, ACPSN further subsidizes the cost for low income pet parents, with proper documentation provided. In some circumstances, depending on the pet care professional’s policy, a deposit is required.

How can I apply for RespiteCare?

There are 3 ways you can apply for RespiteCare:

Complete our online form

Send us an email.

Speak with the representative or health care professional who referred you to the program to initiate contact with us directly.

All Canadian Pet Services Network is a professional organization and listing service dedicated to meeting the needs of pet parents with professionalism and skill. More information can be found at www.acpsn.com.

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