There comes a point in a pet owner’s life which they dread the most. That time is when they have to intentionally say good bye to your faithful companion. That last visit to the vet leaves many pet owners in tears and heavy emotions.

 

How is your dog doing?

A dog who’s clearly enjoying life may be able to stick around a little longer. An obviously miserable dog may well be ready to say good-bye.

 

Signs that your dog is not doing ok

• Not interactive as he used to be
• Bad diet
• Cannot recognize family members
• The dog suffers from unbearable pain

 

What is the dog telling you?

 Often, a senior dog who wants to stick around will convey that message in a way you can’t possibly misinterpret. A dog with a jaunty attitude is probably good to go for a bit longer, a dog who spends all day sleeping is more likely to be content with being put to sleep.

 

 Controling your emotions

Although the decision whether or not to euthanize your senior should focus mostly on your dog’s condition, assessing your own state of mind is okay, too. If your dog has a terminal illness but still seems healthy, you may feel it’s too soon to have him euthanized.

On the other hand, you may feel differently if the illness is one in which sudden death is possible. Under such circumstances, you may decide to put your dog down to avoid finding him dead later — or, worse, having your children find him.

 

Can you afford it?

It is perfectly alright to consider your financial situation when dealing with a senior dog’s health. A Senior and sick dog carries the burden of many trips to the vet, highly priced drugs and many more time and money consuming factors.

 

Opinions of the family

Consult other family members before you make a decision. Especially if the dog is part of a larger family. Consult older children and older members of your household.

 

Vet’s opinion

If your dog is under a vet’s care, then he would have told you how your dog’s disease will progress and what you can expect to see as time goes on. If you know that your dog will begin to suffer as the condition progresses, you may decide that now’s the time to let him go, before he goes through anymore pain.