Free printable PDF

The Pet Quality of Life Scale

A printable, scorable version of our LOVEDPET framework. Rate 8 categories from 1 to 10, add up a total out of 80, and get a clear read on your pet’s comfort, connection, and daily life, then track it again next week to see the trend.

AAHA-accredited practice Reviewed by Dr. Stephanie Bowes, Medical Director, DVM Free, no email required

Built on the LOVEDPET framework

A structured way to put words to what you’re noticing

Quiet changes are easy to second-guess. Is your pet just having an off day, or is this part of a pattern? The scale breaks that question into 8 specific areas, so instead of one vague feeling, you get 8 honest numbers you can compare over time, and share with a vet if you want a second opinion.

What’s inside

8 categories, scored 1 to 10

Each category on the printable PDF works the same way: pick the number between 1 and 10 that best fits where your pet is right now.

Category 1: severe concern 10: no concern
L Love & Connection Withdrawn, no longer seeks affection Actively affectionate and engaged
O Ongoing Pain Visible pain, poorly controlled Comfortable, pain well managed
V Vitality & Joy No interest in favorite things Still lights up for favorite things
E Eating & Hydration Refusing food or water, or needs help with both Eating and drinking normally
D Daily Function & Mobility Can’t move, rest, or go to the bathroom without help Moves and rests independently
P Peaceful Rest & Sleep Restless, uncomfortable at night Sleeping soundly
E Emotional State Confused, anxious, or lost Calm, seems like themselves
T Time, Care & Caregiver Wellbeing Care feels unsustainable for your family Caregiving feels manageable and sustainable

How to use it

Three steps, about 5 minutes

1

Score each of the 8 categories

Rate every category from 1 to 10 based on what you’ve genuinely noticed lately, not how you hope things are.

2

Add up your total

8 categories at up to 10 points each gives you a total out of 80. Write today’s date next to it.

3

Compare it to the bands below

Your total points you toward one of three general next steps. Rescore weekly or monthly to see the trend, not just one snapshot.

What your total means

Score bands out of 80

A general guide, not a diagnosis. If you’re ever unsure, talking to a vet is always the right call regardless of your number.

60–80out of 80

Good quality of life

Your pet is showing mostly comfort, connection, and normal daily life. Keep watching for changes and rescore periodically.

35–59out of 80

Worth monitoring closely

Some categories are slipping. A guided self-check can help you see which ones, or you can talk it through with our care team.

8–34out of 80

Time to talk with a vet

Several categories show real concern. An in-home Quality of Life Assessment gives you an honest, professional read on what’s next.

Why the date column matters

One score is a snapshot. A few scores are a trend.

The printable PDF includes a date column so you can fill it out again next week or next month using the same pet. A total that’s holding steady over several weeks tells a very different story than one that’s dropping each time, even if a single week’s number looks fine on its own. Print a few copies, or reprint as you go.

Who built this

Reviewed by our veterinary team

Dr. Stephanie Bowes

Dr. Stephanie Bowes, Medical Director, DVM

Loved is an AAHA-accredited veterinary practice serving families across Houston, Tampa, and Lakeland.

Common questions

You may be wondering…

Ready to put a number on what you’re noticing?

Download the free printable scale, or let one of our AAHA-accredited vets walk through it with you at home.