The Nikki Hospice Foundation for Pets:

History and Philosophy

 The Nikki Hospice Foundation for Pets has been named for the beloved black silver mackerel tabby of Dr. Kathryn Marocchino and her husband Gianfranco, founders of the organization. Struck with acute feline kidney failure, Nikki was eventually euthanized after her owners discovered there was no alternative available that could have spared her great suffering. Deeply traumatized by the experience, however, they vowed they would never opt to euthanize a pet of theirs again. During the months that followed this event, the Marocchinos began laying the groundwork that was to pave the way for The NHFP. Inspired by the compassionate teachings of St. Francis, the humane beliefs of Rabbi Avraham Kuk and the "ahimsa" doctrine of Eastern religions--and armed with the knowledge she had gained through her own hospice volunteer training at Kaiser Permanente Hospital--Dr. Marocchino became firmly convinced that the hospice concept had to be extended to animals as well as humans and ultimately, on a nation-wide basis. Dr. Eric Clough, a New Hampshire veterinarian whose wife directs a hospice program for people, was the first person Dr. Marocchino contacted after learning of his indefatigable efforts to convince colleagues of the practicality and feasibility of pet hospice care. Dr. Clough has been instrumental in his mentoring, his dedication to the cause, and his willingness to share his ideas with the veterinary community and Dr. Marocchino is deeply indebted to him. Those veterinarians wishing to learn more about Dr. Clough's program, please scroll to Vets: Learn More About the Pet Hospice Program.

 A philosophically humane idea that is gradually beginning to gain ground in veterinary circles, hospice care for pets is hopefully on its way to becoming a mainstream option for pet owners who firmly believe that ethical dilemmas in human medicine, which have inevitably led to controversy within the euthanasia debate, are applicable to veterinary science as well. With hospice care, beloved pets can be allowed to die comfortably at home, in the company of their families, and under proper sedation for pain control. For those ultimately concerned about the physical suffering of a dying pet, it is important to understand how adequate analgesic sedation, lovingly administered by the pet owner on a veterinarian's instructions, can ease the painful symptoms associated with a terminal illness. Understandably, however, pet hospice care will not work for everyone. Many pet owners who do not wish to take on this often difficult and emotional task may, of course, still opt for euthanasia, an alternative that will always be within their rights. Hospice for pets, in fact, is not a concept which in any way precludes euthanasia; rather, it is an option for those pet lovers who have never been offered a choice--and who wish that they had. It is to help these pet owners, who would otherwise have to deal with the guilt and devastating sense of loss often associated with mercy killing, that The Nikki Hospice Foundation for Pets has been created. But only through the compassionate and caring attitude of lay people and veterinarians who are willing to implement this idea to its maximum potential can this concept indeed become a reality across the nation. If you are a veterinarian who feels that pet hospice care is worthy of your time and serious interest, please join us so as to provide your clients with a much-needed service. Your clients will thank you. If you are a pet owner in need of hospice services, please contact us. Hopefully, we can help you find a vet in your vicinity who is willing to offer this specialized care.