Dog Quality of Life Assessment

This assessment helps you objectively evaluate your dog's quality of life using the veterinary-standard HHHHHMM scale. It's designed to support difficult decisions about end-of-life care with compassion and clarity.

Note: This tool is meant to facilitate discussion with your veterinarian, not replace professional guidance. End-of-life decisions should always involve veterinary consultation.

HHHHHMM Scale Assessment

Assessment 100% Complete (7/7 criteria evaluated)

1. Hurt - Pain Level

How much pain is your dog experiencing? Consider signs like whimpering, reluctance to move, panting at rest, or avoiding touch.

Pain Level (0 = No pain, 10 = Severe constant pain)

No pain (0)5Severe pain (10)

2. Hunger - Eating Normally

Is your dog eating their meals? Loss of appetite can indicate declining quality of life.

Eating Status (0 = Not eating at all, 10 = Normal appetite)

Not eating (0)5Normal (10)

3. Hydration - Drinking Normally

Is your dog drinking water normally? Dehydration affects comfort and organ function.

Hydration Status (0 = Not drinking, 10 = Normal drinking)

Not drinking (0)5Normal (10)

4. Hygiene - Ability to Stay Clean

Can your dog keep themselves clean? Loss of grooming ability or incontinence affects dignity and comfort.

Hygiene Status (0 = Cannot stay clean, 10 = Clean and well-groomed)

Unable to stay clean (0)5Clean (10)

5. Happiness - Shows Joy and Interest

Does your dog still show interest in activities they once enjoyed? Tail wags, greeting you, responding to favorite toys or treats?

Happiness Level (0 = No interest/joy, 10 = Happy and engaged)

No joy (0)5Happy (10)

6. Mobility - Can Move Without Struggle

Can your dog move around comfortably? Standing, walking, going outside for bathroom breaks?

Mobility Status (0 = Cannot move, 10 = Moves easily)

Cannot move (0)5Moves easily (10)

7. More Good Days Than Bad

Looking at the past week, has your dog had more good days (alert, comfortable, engaged) than bad days (uncomfortable, withdrawn, struggling)?

Good vs Bad Days (0 = All bad days, 10 = All good days)

All bad days (0)5All good days (10)

How This Assessment Works

The HHHHHMM Quality of Life Scale was developed by Dr. Alice Villalobos, a renowned veterinary oncologist, to help pet owners objectively assess their pet's quality of life. The scale evaluates seven key dimensions of wellbeing, each scored from 0-10.

Score Interpretation:

7-10 (Acceptable): Quality of life is good. Continue monitoring and provide supportive care as needed.
4-6 (Questionable): Quality of life may be declining. Discuss pain management and comfort measures with your vet.
0-3 (Poor): Quality of life is significantly compromised. Consult your vet about hospice care or humane euthanasia.

This assessment should be repeated regularly (weekly or as recommended by your vet) to track changes over time. Many pet owners find it helpful to keep a journal of scores to identify trends and make informed decisions.

Reference: Villalobos, A. (2011). Quality-of-Life Assessment Techniques for Veterinarians. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 41(3), 519-529.