Qualifications and Training
The Pet Hospice Volunteer Team Manager not only represents the Pet Hospice Program, they also represent Colorado State University, the VTH and are an extension service of the veterinarians that they are assisting. As such, the Manager needs to demonstrate a high level of professionalism, reliability, and self-assurance and possess excellent communication skills.

To best understand the Pet Hospice Program and to obtain the necessary skills and knowledge, they must have attended both of the 2003 spring Pet Hospice trainings.

At present, this is a non-salaried, part-time, volunteer position. This position will be held for one year and may be reappointed. Qualified applicant will be appointed by the Argus staff. Office space and equipment will be provided by the Argus Institute in the new wing of the VTH.

Responsibilities

• Initial contact representative for the rDVM, obtains appropriate client/patient information and creates a working client/patient file.
  
• Coordinates and schedules the case manager teams as needed.
  
• Maintain liaison role with case mangers, rDVM and family as needed.
  
• Maintains all paperwork, records and supplies
  
• Mails feedback surveys for families and rDVM and tabulates results.
  
• Assists Community Outreach Coordinator with case manager evaluations.
  
• Assists with the development of training and fundraising as needed.
  
• Maintains working relationship with supervisor and is the Argus Institute liaison with SHARE.

Responsible to: Clinic Services and Community Outreach Coordinator, Argus Institute


Pet Hospice Volunteer Case Manager

Qualifications and Training
The Pet Hospice Volunteer Case Manager not only represents the Pet Hospice Program, they also represent Colorado State University, the VTH and are an extension service of the veterinarians that they are assisting. As such, the case manager needs to demonstrate a high level of professionalism, reliability, and self-assurance and possess excellent communication skills.

To best understand the Pet Hospice Program and to obtain the necessary skills and knowledge, they must have attended both of the 2003 spring Pet Hospice trainings.

Responsibilities

Active case

• To work with Team manager in obtaining knowledge about the case
  
• To team with other case managers in managing the case
  
• To act as the liaison between the client, their pet and the rDVM.
  
• To assist the rDVM with medical needs of patient.
  
• To support the client/family by:
     - educating our clients/family on medically taking care of their pet
     - educating about anticipatory grief
     - preparing families for worse case scenarios
     - defining parameters for their pet
     - sharing options for end-of-life care and issues - body care (provide them with      resources)
     - utilizing supportive client communication skills (active listening, acknowledging      their feelings, validating their experience, etc.)

  Upon Death

• Assist with euthanasia as requested by the rDVM and family
  
• Working with rDVM with body care
  
• Possibly taking the pets body to Precious Memories and picking up cremains (optional, dependant on family and rDVM need )

  Follow-Up after death

• VISIT or phone family offering condolences and further resources
  
• Send a condolence card
  
• Send a card to the rDVM thanking them for involvement in the case
  
• Finalizing all paperwork and turning case notes into the office
  
• Debrief and evaluate case with Team manager
  

Other Responsibilities

• Assisting the Pet Hospice Volunteer Team Manager and AISS Community Outreach Coordinator in designing new materials for educational programs and special outreach projects
  
• Assisting team in identifying appropriate speaking venues
  
• Presenting Pet Hospice services, educational material and information to community groups

Responsible to: Pet Hospice Volunteer Team Manager





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Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital