Dog Quality of Life Calculator (HHHHHMM Scale)

How to Use the Dog Quality of Life Calculator

This calculator helps assess your dog's quality of life using the HHHHHMM scale, developed by veterinarian Dr. Alice Villalobos. It's a tool to guide conversations with your veterinarian, especially for senior dogs or those with chronic or terminal illnesses.

Rate each category from 0 (worst) to 10 (best) based on your honest observations:

• Hurt: Is pain adequately controlled? Is breathing normal?
• Hunger: Is your dog eating enough? Does hand-feeding help?
• Hydration: Is your dog drinking enough? Are they dehydrated?
• Hygiene: Can your dog be kept clean and brushed? Are there pressure sores?
• Happiness: Does your dog show joy and interest? Do they respond to their environment and engage with you?
• Mobility: Can your dog get up without help? Do they enjoy walks (if applicable)? Are they stumbling?
• More Good Days than Bad: Overall, are there more good days than bad? When bad days outnumber good, quality of life is compromised.

The calculator sums the scores to provide a general assessment.

How the Calculator Works

The calculator simply adds the scores you provide for each of the seven categories (Hurt, Hunger, Hydration, Hygiene, Happiness, Mobility, More Good Days than Bad).

Total Score = Hurt + Hunger + Hydration + Hygiene + Happiness + Mobility + More Good Days

The maximum possible score is 70.

Interpreting the Results

The total score provides a guideline for assessing quality of life:

• Score > 35: Generally considered an acceptable quality of life. Continue providing care and monitoring.
• Score ≤ 35: Indicates significant concerns. This score suggests that your dog's quality of life may be compromised. It is crucial to discuss these results with your veterinarian to explore further diagnostics, adjustments in care, palliative options, or humane euthanasia.

Important: This calculator is a subjective tool and should not replace a professional veterinary assessment. It is intended to facilitate discussion and decision-making with your vet. Individual circumstances vary greatly.

References

• Villalobos, A.E., Quality of Life Scale Helps Make Final Decisions, VPN, 09/2004, for Veterinaria Practice News. Based on HHHHHMM Scale. (Often cited, though direct link may vary).
• Various veterinary hospice and palliative care resources utilize this scale, e.g., Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice.