How to know when its time to put your dog to sleep?

Question

My dog was diagnosed with what is most likely cancer about 3 weeks ago. His problems started when he had a seizure. After the seizure and getting a chest xray that showed fluid in his lungs he started to get a little bit better. He is now on multiple medications and getting gradually worse. He hardly ate or drank and all yesterday.

I'm just wondering how to know when its time to put him to sleep. My vet suggested that we bring him in tomorrow to be put to sleep. I'm just scared that it wont be the right choice. He is very lethargic but he still jumps up and gets excited wagging his tail when someone comes in or I take him outside.

I just know when we go to leave tomorrow he will wag his tail and be happy i just don't know if its the right time. I'd love any input.

Answer 1

Your dog is suffering. If he is not keen to eat or drink he's giving you a message. He's lethargic because he is terminally ill.



If the vet has suggested it's time to let your dog go then I would heed this advice. Vets don't give this advice unless they know the dog is in pain and suffering and that the situation will worsen. They don't enjoy euthanising animals either but it is an act of compassion.



My vet was upset when we needed to euthanise my cancer dog. He was very fond of my girl and said it was a sad day that we needed to prevent her suffering when she should have been only half way through her life. He was kind and gentle with her and shed a tear. After it was over he kissed her on the head and say "go in peace beautiful girl".



She was a large breed of dog and the vet and I sat on the floor with her for half an hour after it was over and talked about her gentle nature and how very obedient and compliant she was. Each one of the staff came into the room to wish my girl farewell.



The vet called into my home later that evening with a bouquet of flowers and a heartfelt letter of condolence that he asked me to read later. We had a cup of coffee and he told me how he had enjoyed caring for her since she was a baby puppy. She had just turned 7yo when I lost her to cancer.

Answer 2

I consider that's a horrible motive to place a puppy to sleep. Sick and harm and pain daily and not using a desire is a great motive however now not if any individual is bored. That character will have to as an alternative simply attempt to re-light the joys. After all, the whole lot will get uninteresting as soon as in a at the same time however you'll be able to consistently attempt to have extra a laugh once more as an alternative than exchanging it. Besides, puppies aren't toys.

Answer 3

It's a personal decision that your vet can help guide you on, but only you will know when it's time. Does your dog still have a good quality of life? If you are willing to nurse him through the bad days if he has mostly good days, then I think that's fine (IMO).

See how your dog is in the morning. Don't feel pressured to have it done if you feel it is not time.

Unfortunately, most dogs and cats don't pass on their own, so be prepared to make the decision when it is time.

Good luck.

Answer 4

It is a quality of life concern. Does the dog have more good days than bad? Does he still enjoy some of the things in his life, such as meals, a toy or a tummy rub? Some discomfort is acceptable. Uncontrollable excruciating pain is not quality of life. Have the dog examined by the vet. Then, give him at least 3 days to see if he improves.



Wishing the best for you and your boy.

Answer 5

Usually, vets won't recommend it unless the dog is in physical pain. The easiest way (and there never really is an "easy" way) is to ask yourself whose needs are being met by keeping the dog alive? Is it just for your family? Is the dog in pain? If you were your dog, having the same symptoms and quality of life, would you want to end your suffering? Whatever you decide, the decision will be made out of love for your dog, so it will be the right choice.

Answer 6

Its when your dog gets so sick and in so much pain that he just doesnt do anything at all.

I would honestly have my dog die on its own then taking her to a vet to be put down. Unless she was in so much pain that she was yelping all over the place.

Its your decision...

Answer 7

Have him put down tomorrow. Why prolong this any longer? The longer you wait, the longer he will suffer, and the more money it will cost you in vet bills.

Answer 8

the owner should know their pet. If you sense he's too ill, and his mood is just down. Then, maybe it's time =(