The development of the PET@home toolkit: An experience-based co-design method study.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Veterinary Medicine
• Human-Animal Bond Research

Background:

• Pets play a vital role in the well-being of individuals receiving long-term home care.
• Growing numbers of clients require home care, increasing the need for pet-related support.
• Existing resources for managing pets in home care settings are insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive toolkit for clients with pets receiving home care, their families, and professional caregivers.
• To address and mitigate challenges associated with pet ownership in long-term home care environments.
• To enhance the quality of life for both clients and their pets through supportive materials.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Experience-Based Co-Design (EBCD) method, involving clients, family caregivers, and professional caregivers.
• Conducted four phases: exploring key moments, prioritizing topics, co-designing toolkit materials, and evaluating feasibility.
• Incorporated insights from a systematic review, individual interviews, focus groups, and expert consultations (e.g., veterinarians).

Main Results:

• Developed the PET@home Toolkit, a collection of resources designed to support pet ownership in home care.
• Toolkit materials include leaflets on communication and animal welfare, and an infographic.
• The toolkit is based on both theoretical evidence and practical experiences from stakeholders.

Conclusions:

• The PET@home Toolkit offers valuable support for professional caregivers, clients with pets, and their families.
• It serves as a significant addition to person-centred care for individuals with pets in long-term home care.
• The toolkit will be freely available for download from May 2024.