[Gus Gus]

A friend of mine is really struggling with the idea of euthanizing her 15-year-old dog. For context, the dog sleeps most of the day. He struggles to get up sometimes, walks differently now, and can’t use the stairs at all. The dog doesn’t really play anymore but still enjoys going outside. (My friend got the dog a stroller to push the dog around the neighborhood.)

Despite the occasional cry of pain and clear lack of energy, the dog seems generally happy. He gets excited when anyone comes to visit and still eats/drinks normally. My friend has tried various pain medications to help the dog’s movement, but it’s hard to tell if anything has really been successful.

So, my question is how do you know when it’s the right time to put a dog down? My friend doesn’t currently have issues with financially caring for the dog; she is more concerned with quality of life. It’s an impossible decision for her, so I’m looking for some guidance.

[Danielle DeGroot]

Quote:
So, my question is how do you know when it’s the right time to put a dog down?

Hi @Gus Gus. I’m sorry your friend is facing this heartbreaking time. I understand completely. I currently have a 13-year-old dog who is on palliative care, and I have spent much time over the past month or so wondering this same thing. The reality is it is never an easy decision, but it is a necessary one. With each and every pet we bring into our lives, we will eventually have to face this decision. It is one of the hardest parts of pet ownership.

Your friend will have to look at the reality of the situation and answer some questions. It can be very difficult to do so, as often answering them truthfully means that your pet is nearing the end of their time with you. If a pet is in pain, having trouble controlling bodily functions, not eating, not enjoying life, has a poor diagnosis, and has a poor quality of life, it’s time to face what’s next. Especially when it becomes an epic effort to keep a pup alive. A big factor is how long your friend can pay for care once the dog’s needs intensify.

Fifteen years old is quite a long life for any dog breed, and it’s clear your friend loves her pup. I am very sorry she and her dog are having to navigate this tough time. This article covers when and how to know it’s time to say goodbye in more detail. I hope she gets as much quality time with her pup as she can. You can learn more about how to help her after she says goodbye in our guide on dealing with the death of a dog. Sending lots of support.

[dogsaremylife]

It is always a tough call. In my experience, it is better to decide before a medical crisis or emergency. However, if your friend can care for the dog, and they seem to be enjoying life, she should keep on as long as she feels comfortable doing so.

[Author]

Posts