Harmony Housecalls

TeleHealth Consultations:

Harmony Housecalls is now coming to your home through your computer!

Dr. August is now offering consultations through virtual visits. Make yourself a cup of tea and relax in the comfort of your own home while we discuss the health and well-being of your beloved animal.

You will need to have a relationship with a veterinarian who can provide a physical examination, and other diagnostic testing and prescribe medical treatments. In-person veterinary care is vital for the continued well-being of our animal companions.

TeleHealth is intended to compliment in-person medical care. In this case, Dr August is there to listen and provide input when those longer discussions around end-of-life decision making are needed. Often this also benefits the veterinarians providing physical care by freeing time for needed medical and treatment discussions. Written reports to share with your veterinarian help to provide continuity of care. Followup vet-to-vet calls are also available.


Topics for consultations:

Quality-of-Life Assessment

• Quality-of-life assessments focus on recognizing signs of pain, discomfort, or distress as well as supporting action steps to improve comfort and enjoyment of the time remaining.
• You will receive materials and guidance for ongoing evaluation of your animal's wellbeing.
• Depending on individual needs and goals, the Quality-of-Life discussion may take the entire hour. Periodic reassessments can be scheduled as needed.

• Establishing "Advanced Directives" can be useful for navigating the difficult terrain of making decisions for our animals as they near the end of their lives. It is important to assure their comfort and increase our awareness of their needs as we work within our own human ability and desire to make the best possible decisions for their care.
• End-of-life care planning focuses on decision making, prioritizing care goals, and planning for potential changes when signs of pain, discomfort, or distress are recognized.
• Together we will complete an End-of-life Care Plan with next steps identified and establish an emergency plan to reduce some of the stress involved as the end of life approaches.

• These conversations are vital to pre-planning and are not appropriate for emergency needs. Contact your local veterinarian or emergency clinic for immediate veterinary care.
• Treatment options and plans will need to be discussed with your local veterinarian for implementation. Dr. August cannot diagnose or prescribe treatments virtually.

• A preliminary questionnaire will be sent when the appointment time is confirmed. This is important to help to focus the conversation to meet your needs and goals and ensure that individual concerns are addressed.

• The preliminary questionnaire and any veterinary records including a summary of medical conditions will help to guide the conversation.
• Paperwork must be completed 24 hours before the scheduled appointment to allow time for Dr. August to review everything before the call.
• Price includes Dr. August's outside time for review of records and preparation of the personalized report and care plan provided afterward.
• If more time or follow-up conversation is desired, those may be scheduled during the call.