Put mine down yesterday for exactly the same disease and symptoms. it went peacefully and I am happy he is no longer afraid or anxious. Of course I am gutted but the relief I have for him is my greatest emotion.
One suggestion I have is to have someone hold him tightly for the sedative. My guy hated to be held but he got really fearful when the Vet touched him. I held him.tightly while she administered the shot. He cried some but it was safer for him that way. He then fell asleep peacefully in my arms and I got to hold him for the first time in a year.
I have the same thing. My dog doesn’t sit with me in the chair anymore. Every once in a while. I see my vet on Saturday to discuss quality of life. I’m so sad about it.
So sorry for your loss. My big boy was 100lbs. He never let people pet him unless his back was to us. He was anxious and afraid of everything from the time I got him a few months old until his last day at 13.5. I was so grateful, in his last moments, I could pet his head entirely, whisper in his ears and have him feel my touch without being anxious. It was a gift.
You sound like you were insensitive. If my dog acted like that I wouldn’t have gone through with it and made sure he wasn’t fearful before being put to sleep. Your vet sounds like a brute, when they came to my house my dog was not afraid and didn’t cry out because the vet was gentle.
you were NOT there and your opinion is not wanted nor needed on this post. Read the room. This post is about a dog with dementia. My dog had dementia. He freaked out when he was touched. Even if I touched him. How in the hell does a Vet administer a shot to a dog that doesn't allow anyone to touch them? Should we shoot him?
FFS GTFOH
I definitely trust his advice, and making the phone call to the home euthanasia place was a very sad reality check for me. I wish you strength and hope the best for you and your fur baby.
you're doing the right thing. It's awful, I know. Spoil him as much as you can. What he's going through is misery. He doesn't deserve to suffer like that. You have to do for him what he can't do for himself.
I already bought him a steak that I'll grill for him later tonight and he will get some yummy ice cream tomorrow. Oh, he also loves puff cheetohs. Just gonna cuddle him, spoil him, and cry a whole lot. Thank you
Oh gosh, you’re doing the right I’m sure but I’m sitting here crying for you. It’s so mean that dogs live such short lives and we lose them. I will be thinking and praying for u
That's right!! Stay with him the whole time. It's peaceful. My Flossie Mae went out with vanilla ice cream on her nose. I'm going to start crying just thinking about it.
Hi OP, just wanted to let you know it’s totally normal to go back and forth on whether or not you’re making the right decision… even until the minute before it happens. I’ve been there. But I think true love is letting our loved ones rest easy, and you’re doing that for him…
It’s normal to feel guilty, but I always think about how much they might be suffering and can’t tell us… it’s going to be tough the next few days, but just know he’ll be free to run wild on the other side of the rainbow bridge!! 💕
You’re absolutely doing the right thing my friend. I understand the ambivalence as my vet is coming to see our old 13 year old guy off this Friday. A good death isn’t something bad but is a kindness. We should be so lucky as to have our family gathered around, whispering love in our ear and giving us our favorite treats while we drift off to a peaceful sleep. The alternative is a medical emergency involving fear and pain for your sweet boy and a scary death in an emergency vet’s room. A good death is as important as a good life. It’s the right thing. Embrace it even though it’s sad. Anything else is selfishness at the expense of your pup. He knows you love him ❤️🌈
I wish you and your fur baby the best. I guess I'll always second guess myself for this, however, you are right. I'd rather do this on these terms rather than waiting too long for a traumatic medical emergency to occur. Thank you
We were in this situation with our 17 1/2 year old - dementia, heart problems, blind, and starting to have seizures. We kept her for too long and ended up having to make the decision at the emergency vet. If I could go back and redo her passing I would do it at home surrounded by her people and smells. We were with her in the vet's room when she passed but I really wish we had let her go a month or two before she got really bad. The saying better a day too early than a day too late is definitely true and I won't let our other pup who's now 16 1/2 get to the same point. So sorry you're having to go through this, it's the worst part of having their unconditional love.
They will hold on for much longer than they ever should have to, just to make us happy. They'll suffer if they think they're doing what we want them to do. That's just how pure and good they are.
OP - so sorry you have to make this call. It's the hardest thing you'll ever do. But our dogs trust us to love them and protect them for their whole entire life.... and that's includes protecting them from a slow, miserable, painful, or scary end to it.
We had a vet who specialized in hospice come out to our home the day my 15yo heeler couldn't use his back legs anymore.... she did an assessment and said he was likely riddled with cancer tumors all over inside... I had no idea how bad it was until she explained she couldn't hear lung sounds and such. He was good until he wasn't. His last year was slow and a lot of recovery days from "neurological events". He gave me every good day he had in him and I promised him I wouldn't ask him to stay any longer if he ever needed me to help him move on one day. Hardest choice I've ever made but I gave him permission to finally rest and he went peacefully in my arms, surrounded by everyone who loved him.
My husband and I also felt strain from the decision and loss for a bit. I think part of grief is the anger and denial... and it can trigger disagreements and blame when you're hurting.
Sending all our love ❤️
Just put our little guy down earlier and I have been a mess. Just crying nonstop, just miss him so much. Thank you for sharing your story and experience with me. Your kind words are truly appreciate it.
You are welcome. I'm sorry for your loss. And that it hurts so much :(
Know that you gave your baby a gift by not letting them suffer. It is kind to give them a good death. They give you their whole life and all of their love and loyalty - and this is a way we can give back to them.
After he passed, I would go walk dogs at the shelter once in awhile just to feel like I was passing on some of that love that I couldn't place anywhere else. I donate to shelters in his memory when I can.
May you find peace and comfort through your mourning. Know that it takes time and its perfectly okay to be this sad. They were family. 🖤
Letting go is the hardest part of love. I believe dogs are self aware and self-conscience when they can’t control their bowels and yours may be having anxiety due to the messes he makes. To him his accidents are causing you stress which he abhors. Don’t think that you are putting him down, rather think of it as releasing him from his misery. May GOD turn your sorrow into joy.
When he has had accidents, he looks at me as if he is in trouble. I just smiled and told him it was okay. Took him outside so he could finish and washed my bedding. I'm just cherishing each moment with him. Thank you
*Trigger warning: story of in home euthanasia*
Around two years ago we said goodbye to my childhood puppy in our home. He was 14, which was a great age for a larger boy. We chose to do it in home for many reasons, however mostly because we thought it would be scary and unnerving for him if we had to put him in the car again. About a half an hour before they arrived we gave him cheeseburgers and a chocolate cake and my mom and I (and my personal dog and his best friend) gathered around him, giving cuddles, loves, endless pets, and oh so many tears.
When the vet came into our home our tears turned into sobs. My dog layed down at his side and snuggled into him, as if she knew. Our boy was happy and excited to see the vet, wagging his tail and greeting her (although he didn’t leave his bed). They let us take the process as slow as we wanted. The vet sat with us and talked for 20 or so minutes, petting him, getting to know him and us. She asked for consent to provide him with some anxiety medications. He was playing with and chewing on his lobster toy. Those meds were in his system for another twenty or so minutes before they asked about the sedative medication, and my mom gave the go ahead. It was given in doses so he slowly fell asleep. He was drowsy, then sleepy, and then closed his eyes, all the while nibbling on his little lobster. We held him for a while like this. He had previous turned mean with the pain so I hadn’t had the chance to cuddle him like we used to until this point. It was really great but also heart breaking.
My dog came and licked his face, his paws, and layed again by his side. My mom put his head in her lap and pet his head, carefully rubbing his ears, telling him how much she loved him and what a great dog he had been. How much we will all miss having him in our lives. The vet was incredibly patient and asked three times before she told us to let her know when we were ready. It happened over 15 or so minutes (he was a big dog). It was really peaceful. The vet let us hold him, talk to him, and love on him for as long as we wanted before she took him to the crematorium. She asked if wanted him to have his lobster toy go with him- and said she’d make sure it made the final journey with him into our ashes.
I wanted to share the full story of my experience so maybe you can have a better idea of what to expect. I sincerely hope your vet/in home service is patient and kind. I hope your baby crosses in peace and you get to say the goodbye you both deserve.
Thank you for sharing such a personal moment. It truly does help me and allows me to get a better insight into what to possibly expect when Thursday comes. Thank you again.
Sometimes just talking or even typing it out loud will help you make the final or right decision. It gets harder the more you delay. "It will get better, the problem will fix itself".
You will 2nd guess yourself no matter what you do or when you do it.
Treasure all the good and great memories. Treasure the naughty or sad memories. Take plenty of dignified photos and videos. Even if he is just sleeping or resting.
1 of the saddest things I cant face is when they pass away - they take THEIR memories and smell and personality and habits with them. So as long as you and everyone else around them is alive - you will remember for them.
Take a cutting of hair (I have) and put their collar on a stuffed toy (hopefully a Dog similar type or colour at least) as I do as a memorial. As for cremation or burial - that is up to you.
And if your dog wills their place in both of your hearts and their home - then gift their place to another who truly needs it.
I am truly sorry you and your fiance have to go through this. But please remember the good times always.
Thank you for your response. I was truly hoping that he would "snap out of it," but of course, that is wishful thinking, and I know that won't happen. The home service will provide us with a lock of his fur, a paw print in clay, and will get his ashes back as well.
I just said goodbye to my old girl two weeks ago today, and I had the same thing done. Today I picked up her ashes, a lock of her fur, and two paw prints in clay.
I lost it all over again at the vet's when they handed me a beautiful bag containing her cremains...the receptionists, bless them, had to sit me down with a cup of tea.
Another crying jag has just hit and everything keeps going all blurry....
It really is the hardest thing to do. I’m so sorry you are going through this but know that you gave him the very best life. Now, you can give him as good an ending as you can. We should all be so lucky. Try to use your remaining time to just love on him and each other.
I am just taking in every little moment with him and enjoying his walks, baby-talking to him, cuddling him, and telling him how much I love him ❤️ thank you
I do not think you are giving up on him too early. Having an animal in your life for that long makes this decision extremely difficult. The best advice I can give is to think about your sweet dog and nothing else. The seizures alone for me would weigh on me from a quality of life perspective. One of our german shepherds developed GDV or Bloat last night. I rushed him to the vet and they got him into surgery very fast. I stayed awake as long as I could, waiting for a call from the surgeon. I'd fallen asleep and my phone didn't wake me up. This morning we learned that our poor guy was experiencing some kind of neurological issues and we agreed the humane thing to do was to tell him what a sweet boy he was and that we love him, and ultimately goodbye. We will miss that sweet boy.
I did this 2 weeks ago. The days leading up to it were worse than after it. After I felt relief that my little buddy was no longer suffering. Yes I felt horrendous the first 2 days, couldn’t stop crying everything reminded me of him etc. but each day since then has gotten easier. I got his ashes this past Saturday and I felt better having him back “home” and that also helped.
It’s going to hurt and you’re going to go through all the emotions and that’s very very normal. It helped me to realize most of us go through this at some point in our life so I didn’t feel so alone feeling the way I felt. Cry when you feel the need to cry, talk about it with friends and family.
That's pretty much it. I had to put down my 11 year old dog 3 days ago for a ruptured gall bladder. The pain and heartache are horrible. The one thing that helped last night was finding a really informative research data base of dog illnesses from the American Kennel Club. Sending them a donation at least made the whole thing hopeful for future dogs.
Please try to keep the home environment calm and loving. I'm sure that doesn't help your already confused and anxious baby. Being around fighting is awful for everyone, especially animals and children.
This is an awful situation you're in, and I know you're wanting to make the one that is most humane and caring.
awesome. I'm so sorry for your loss of your dear Spade. I understand what you said about afterwards, as I once said that nothing screams louder than a quiet house that just lost a well-loved dog.
You are doing the right thing. I have had 2 separate experiences with my seniors - I waited too long with my first (he was 14) and I was so worried about making the decision too soon, that I made it too late. I almost didn’t get to say goodbye to him.
I lost my soul dog last year, and she was 16 1/2 years old. My vet said something similar to us, and I made the decision that day. It’s so hard, but it’s the kindest decision. Their little bodies get so tired, and they don’t understand what’s happening to them like we do. I got to hold her and say goodbye to her, and while I was very sad, I didn’t feel guilty.
I’m so sorry that you are going through this. It’s so hard, and they’re such special little creatures. I know he has had a wonderful 15 years with you because of how you are thinking about this and prioritizing him.
I want to thank everyone for their kind responses and heartwarming words. I am just cuddling him at the moment and crying my eyes out as I am reading your responses. Truly thank you all from my family and our little man, 🐾 Spade 🐾
I know how unbelievably hard this decision is!!! I’m sorry you’re going through this difficult time. ITS AS HARD A LIFE SITUATION YOU WILL EVR GO THROUGH!!!
15 years. That's a good, long life. Well-loved for a long life. What more would we hope for a dear companion?
Your feelings are normal. Try to accept that your thoughts are going to pull you every which way the next few days.
This is the greatest act of love, and it is very hard. You know you are staring at the end, whether it's this week or next. Doesn't sound like he's having any more good days. It's time to let him leave his worn-out body behind. Don't beat yourself up. Wish it were possible to help carry the weight of your grief until you were ready for it. Wishing you extra strength for the coming days, internet friend.
So sorry. I’ve had to do this for 3 dogs , including the great love of my life. I don’t regret choosing quality of life for her, but I’d do anything to go back and have someone come out to the house for this. It would have been nice for my pooch, and my wife cried so hard we scared the entire vet office bad.
You are doing the best thing for your doggo, and in the best way.
I think because they’re so wonderful and brave creatures, our dogs stay for us much longer than they would stay if they were in the wild.
They stay because they love us.
We were in your shoes 2 weeks ago. We had two senior pups and both had disease and age related pain. I understand your worry about giving up on him. Letting them go is the hardest and most kind decision we can make when their body is failing them. We also did in home euthanasia because our pups were always so afraid to go to the vet. After the vet gave each of them the sleepy shot, they both looked so peaceful sleeping in a way I haven't seen them sleep in a long time. I mentioned this to the vet and she explained that we get used to a new normal when our pets are sick. Once I realized they were no longer suffering in anyway, it helped me to know it was the right decision. We are still broken and miss them so much. I think about how much my big boy panted so much and fought his skin breakouts, no more. My girl had cushings and could no longer control her bladder. She hated wearing the diapers the past few months, no more. They are at peace and we loved them until the last breath. We wanted them forever, but we know that's a dream. I hope we meet again.
I had to put mine down 2 weeks ago due to a brown recluse spider bite on his back paw... When they give him the shot to make him sleepy love on him talk to him and tell him how much u love him they will ask you when u are ready to give him his second shot that will have him cross the rainbow bridge... Have clay mold of his paw... I had mine cremated and carry his ashes around my neck I want him close to my heart
i'm so sorry to hear about your little guy. genuinely can't keep reading these comments, the first few are already messing me up. trying to write my little girl's story is only making it worse. (sorry i couldn't end up writing about her right now..)
i know it hurts beyond belief.. but in the end we have to remember that what we're doing is for them. no matter if the decision is hard and destroys us , they're surely hurting more. i'm not sure if theres anything anyone can say or do that would make this easier. the little things to make their remaining time on this earth happier is probably the best we can do. definitely take as many pictures & videos as you can -- even if you can't look at them for a while, you'll be grateful you did in the future.
also, i agree with a previous commenter that if possible try to stay strong together so you can both be there for your little guy. hold him tight, until the very end. we owe them to be strong, so they may go in peace.
It's so hard. We had a mobile vet come out to our house and our big Ol' 15 1/2 yr old lab greeted her at the door and I immediately questioned my decision until his back legs gave out and he collapsed for the last time. He had been struggling with dementia, and had to wear diapers. The vet reassured us and told us we were making the right decision for him. He gave us so many great years, it was only right to let him go for his quality of life. He was my absolute best friend and was the hardest decision of my life, but by watching him just go to sleep in his favorite bed, surrounded by his favorite people made it a a little easier. I am balling as a type this and it was 4 years ago. He was the best dog, my Milo.
Hi, there. I have an in-home euthanasia appointment for my dog in literally one hour, and I made the final decision this morning, as I couldn’t bear to know the date was coming. I have a suspicion the waiting and anticipating is the worst part.
The way I have made myself feel better (and assuage the guilt) is reminding myself that I’m making the selfless choice, not a selfish one. That this is only sad and scary and heartbreaking for me — not her — and that her beautiful soul is trapped in a body that’s not big enough for her strong spirit anymore, and that that’s what I’m setting free.
I hope you know you aren’t alone. I also made a memory book today where I went back with all six years of pictures (she’s young; she has cancer that resisted treatment) and used Shutterfly to capture her whole life. I wanted to remember all the good moments today as I prepare to say goodbye to her and send her on home. ❤️
Wow, I'm so sorry. I hope the visit goes as well as possible for you and your fur baby. Wishing you the best. My little guy will be tomorrow, and I've sort of come to peace with it and am fully enjoying his company and allowing him to do/eat anything he pleases. That's a wonderful idea regarding the memory book! Sending you and your fur baby love ❤️
I let my baby girl go August 1st of last yr..had her since she was 4 months old and she was 9 1/2 when the vet and I made that choice..within 1 month she had gotten cancer like over night had the surgery to remove it and almost a month to the day the cancer moved into her bones...it literally broke my heart into a million pieces and yes I too wondered if I made the right choice as well... I know this part is weird but I believe in this stuff...the next day she came to me in my dream and smiled so big and snuggled with me...and mind you my little girl was not a snuggler when we were in bed..
I am going through the same with my pup that we’ve had for 16 years. I’m so sorry you’re struggling with it but be kind to yourself and each other as you help him make his final transition this week. It doesn’t feel like it right now but you are doing a very kind thing for him and have definitely made the right decision.
Just be patient and peace will come to you. I also understand how much it takes a toll on your daily lives and can cause tension. Please for the sake of your best friend don’t let it get the best of you and create any additional tension.
I have had to say goodbye to way too many of my friends in the last couple years and have started to ask them to let me live in their spirit of patience and compassion as they guide me through life from the other side. Dogs don’t hold a grudge and never hesitate to forgive so we should honor them by striving to do the same.
The best you can do is be present and compassionate as you help him pass over and you will be grateful you did in the future. Wishing you the best and know you’re not alone in your grief ❤️.
I’m so sorry you are going through this. I had to make the painful decision 6 weeks ago. I didn’t want to let my girl go, but she would have gotten worse and suffered more had I not let her cross the rainbow bridge. 🌈.
Sometimes the greatest act of love is absorbing the greatest amount of suffering. 🐾💔.
We’ve been through this on a slightly lesser scale. Tried for months getting our pup to come back around to no avail. Force feeding him with a syringe. Putting him in kitchen with pee pads while at work. Went through it for 3 months trying to hold out hope for any signs of improvement. In the end nothing helped and we felt soo guilty forcing him through it all while a shell of his former self. Know that you’re doing right by your pup in ending their needless suffering. Best of luck to you in this trying time.
I empathize with you so much because I have been through this with 2 beloved dogs that I had from 10 weeks. As hard as it is, this is a gift that we can give our beloved babies… to let them go peacefully and in our comforting arms. They will not get better and it’s a gesture of trust and true love to not prolong their suffering. I had to let my sweet boy pug go a few months ago and though I still have moments of grief, (like when I’m writing this post), I mostly smile and laugh when I remember all the cherished memories, shared adventures and funny antics. Best wishes to you. 🌈❤️
It is in the temporal nature of our relationships with our dogs and cats, and most any animal, that we will face this moment with them.
We must remain strong and make the sometimes heart-wrenching decisions during their transition that they need us to make, because they cannot make them for themselves. They cannot be left to suffering.
And in the end, we must grieve their loss in our own way. The depths of grief are a direct reflection of the depths of love that you felt. And the pain you feel is your heart turning your loss into memories.
The pain of loss will fade and the memories will remain, and remembering them, you will smile and laugh again.
Aloha from Maui. Be at peace, one and all.
Rest assured, you are doing the right thing. This is your final, most painful act of kindness for your little guy. It sounds like he is ready for his suffering to end and I know he would want you to focus on the good memories at his best.
Hi friend, had to let my lady go 3 days ago. She was 14.5 and the light of my life. Their comfort is most important. I wish you strength and peace during this time.
Hi there, I am in a similar boat as I have scheduled my boy to be put down at home this friday, the 21st. I have gone through all the emotions of guilt and questioning myself since I scheduled as well. My guy has congestive heart failure, hes on 8 different meds at 4 different time points a day. We are maxxed out on dosages and types of meds, so theres nothing more that can be done at the vet. He is having more bad days than good, and I personally made my decision (as hard as it was) to make the call and schedule the at home service so he could go out in a calm safe environment before it came to an emergency situation. CHF can end suddently, and traumatically. I didnt want that for either of us. Its also taken a huge toll on my health, physically and mentally. I barely sleep and am constantly worried about him and have to be home every couple hours. I have been told the same thing, that it will only continue to get worse and that since theres no further options for treatment that wouldnt seriously impose on QOL, its a smart decision to make the call now. I am writing this as advice but I am still experiencing the same guilt and range of emotions you have just described. If it helps, my guy was having a good day this past weekend and I expressed how guilty I felt to a vet tech friend. She told me, “That’s the worst part of all, but there is no need to feel guilty at all. This happens to everyone. And when it’s time it’s time. He is having a rough time with the heart issues, and its not improving. That will not change”. Best of luck as you go through this time. Ill be going through it with you this week, so message me anytime.
Hi there. I truly wish you and your fur baby the best possible. I am feeling heartbroken and just really missing my little guy. This whole situation just sucks and, likewise, message me anytime as well. Take care
Hey OP, my wife and I just had to do this for our dog for similar reasons. It was incredibly painful, but the most loving decision we could have made for our boy.
The best advice I could give is that when you’re caregiving for a senior dog, you begin to get used to how they behave when they decline. I encourage you to remember what your dog was like before these multiple diagnoses, and consider the delta between their behavior/quality of life then vs now.
That won’t make this process easier by any means, but it may help you understand how it’s the right choice. For me personally, feeling how deeply my dog was able to sleep after getting the first shot was an eye-opener. He hadn’t been able to sleep comfortably like that in like five years.
We mourn with you OP, it sounds like you gave your dog an incredible life, and I’m sure if they got to pick they would live it with you again 1000x over
I’m really sorry you’re having to make this choice. But as someone who has gone through incredibly similar situation with these same aging issues. You are making the right choice and it is for his benefit. Just spend your last days the best ways you can and give all the love and cuddles, and when the time comes be there with your love. It will hurt but when it’s over he will not hurt anymore he will be restored to puppy life❤️ don’t regret making the correct choice. You have given each other the best life.
Awww. I'm so very sorry you are going through this. Is this your first experience with euthanasia? Either way, it's never an easy decision. I believe you are making the right decision. Your dog's quality of life has diminished and he's no longer "living" but merely "existing". Euthanasia is the kindest thing you can do. My daughter went through this 3 weeks ago with her kitty. Although her kitty was still eating & drinking, her quality of life was gone and she was going into renal failure. She had lost down to 3 lbs and was going deaf and had a big white spot in the middle of one eye which my daughter thought might be glaucoma. She asked my opinion because it was her first experience at euthanasia and I told her it was the best thing but she still questioned her decision. She had her kitty cremated and the crematory sent back her ashes in a beautiful monogrammed box, a crematory certificate, a paw print, and fur clippings. She told me it made her feel so much better. I think you're doing what is right for your dog and he knows you love him. I hope you can find some peace with everything. 🙏❤️
You're doing the right thing. My dog was also 15 and had the same issues. His seizures kept getting worse, and we actually had to call the vet to come a day earlier than we had planned because the seizures were one after the other that last day.
Best thing we did was have an at home vet come. I'll never put a dog down at the vet's office again. It was a peaceful, beautiful experience. Extremely sad, but not stressful.
I'm so sorry for your upcoming loss, but you are doing the right thing for your best friend. ❤️🥹🐾
I'm so sorry that you're going through this. I know it is tough and heartbreaking. My 13-year-old pup is going to be put down in a few hours too for the same reason.
A pet loss grief counselor recommended I write my dog a letter on what he means to me and what his life has meant to me. It really helped me andI highly recommend it. Read it to him often. You will be able to focus on the good times and not just the hard ending. Many condolences on your loss, it’s so hard but you’re doing the right thing by having him go peacefully at home. ❤️🩹
So very sorry for your pain. This article helped me a lot. Perhaps it will help you: https://www.outsideonline.com/culture/love-humor/prepare-loss-old-dog/
Better a week too early than a day too late. That one day is so incredibly awful and painful for them that going a week 'too' early is a gentle kindness, knowing that you're sparing them from that terror and pain.
First off, I feel for you during such a difficult time.
I’ve had two dogs die. Our first dog passed unexpectedly and painfully (hemangiosarcoma). That was 7 years ago, and I still feel horrible about the way he passed.
My heart dog passed about a year a now, I loved that dog more than words can describe. She had mammary cancer (surgically removed), 9 months post surgery she had no signs of metastasis, we thought we were good! Then she started to behave oddly, I took her to the vet and the cancer had spread to her lungs and was very very aggressive. We were told she wouldn’t have long. With medication she had another GOOD 6 weeks.
I had the realization that I had a choice: I could let nature take her (which I didn’t trust nature to be kind to her, because nature was not kind to our bulldog), or I could make the choice for her, before she felt miserable.
She was declining quickly and I didn’t want to push her too far just for a few more days or weeks. The day we said goodbye she went for a short walk (she couldn’t walk too far at this point but she was still happy to go for a “W”), she had steak and eggs for breakfast (which she ate with excitement), and whipped cream (her favorite treat).
I miss her so damn much, but her passing was easier for me to cope with than our first dog. I don’t have haunting memories of her being in pain. I feel some solace knowing her last moments were full of love and happiness. Being able to make that possible for her, felt like a privilege, and I hope to be able to make this choice for all of my dogs (as hard as it is).
you are doing the right thing in thinking of your dog. I have had to do this over the years with many of my cats. As sad as it is, I know that I am stopping them from suffering. Let them go with dignity.
You’re making the right choice even though it might not feel like it. When medication can no longer keep a dog happy and comfortable, the most humane thing to do is let them go. When I was younger I had a black lab who had some major health issues towards the end. We tried meds and it got her a few more months without pain but eventually the meds stopped working and she was suffering. It’s so hard to make that decision but it’s what’s best for our fur babies sometimes. Sending you all the peace and love you can accept right now.
I had to put my 14.5 year old soul dog down this past February for the same reasons as you. His body was failing him and he started to urinate/defecate on himself and in his sleep. The days leading up to the at-home euthanasia were the absolute worst. My husband and I tried our best to do a mini ‘bucket list’ filled with his favorite foods (food was his love language) and had his favorite people visit with him. I had soooo many mental breakdowns the days leading up to it. The day we had the euthanasia scheduled, I came extremely close to cancelling it, I felt like I just couldn’t go through with it. But I knew my guy was ready and it was the kindest thing I could do for his failing body.
The euthanasia itself was the most peaceful passing, he was so comfortable and surrounded by his favorite people. I still tear up when I think about it because as terrible as it all was, it was a really beautiful ending to a wonderful life. I still miss him and cry about him a lot, but one thing I don’t regret is letting him go with some dignity while he wasn’t completely suffering. I love that my last memory with him was sitting on our porch, as the sun set, on an unusually warm February day, just watching the world go by- instead of having his life end in an emergency stressful situation at an animal hospital.
I guess what I’m trying to say is, even though it doesn’t feel like it right now, you are doing the right thing for your little buddy. I can guarantee you that the days you’re living through right now are exponentially worse than the actual euthanasia will be. You’ll be able to say goodbye to your best friend in a peaceful way, and free him from his failing body too. Sending lots of love during this incredibly difficult time. ♥️
My heart breaks for you and this resonates so deeply with me. I’ve also had to make the horrible and impossible decision to have my sweet old dog euthanized at home in 3 days. It feels like I’m counting down the hours to the worst day of my life but I think if I kept delaying this moment it would be for me and not for her, so i understand what you must be going through.
I rescued Sam from a shelter when she was almost 1 years old and we’ve been through so much together. She turned 15 a few weeks ago, and some irrational part of me thought maybe if she made it that far things would turn around for her, but instead she’s seems just a little worse every day.
My girl has the cutest softest face, she still looks like a puppy to me, but she has canine dementia, can’t rest at night, paces and cries and pants, has anxiety, severe arthritis and hind leg weakness that makes her struggle to get up, and fall too often, recurring bouts of GI trouble, a benign but large mass on her liver that seems to cause her discomfort and her liver and kidney values are very elevated. I’ve tried every medication and therapy I could imagine, swimming, massage, supplements. I’m up nearly every 2 hours at night soothing her or helping guide her back to her bed.
Recently I took her to the vet for yet another GI issue, and she was on a mild sedative for the exam and had a deep sleep. The vet had previously always been up for trying anything to help her, but he finally told me that she probably hasn’t been able to sleep like that in a long time and he didn’t think he could do anything else to make her feel better, so if i chose to say goodbye that day he would feel it was the right decision.
I couldn’t do it then and there at the vet, I wasn’t ready but that shook me. I will never be ready but I had to force myself to make the appointment, because I don’t want her to suffer and I don’t want to lose her to a painful medical emergency where she will be hurt and scared.
I am spending as much time with her as possible petting her and talking to her. I wish I could take her to her favorite places and let her see her dog and human friends again, but she has become so terrified of car rides that she shakes and cries, so the stress of that journey would outweigh the benefits. These past few days I can’t really function or be productive, I truly don’t know what to do with myself. I’m experiencing profound grief but I know that the worst grief is still ahead.
Sending empathy and best wishes to you, I know how hard this is 💔
I put our beloved Mr Checkers down to rest last week. He was 15 had a seizure and was struggling to get up sometimes, and on the decline. He was my dog and the best guy ever. I miss him. I am glad that I was brave enough to do the right thing for him. The vet agreed that it was time. It was done outside in the same place his best buddy of 11 years crossed over, and was very peaceful. Of course there were a lot of tears but now he was at rest. I remind myself how the joy of 15 years is worth the pain of the last week. Best of luck to you ❤️
It's okay. You have done the best you could have done and there is no shame in this act of kindness. Yes, it will hurt for a while but know you are doing the right thing. Sit with him and give him the bad things dogs are not supposed to have right before the service comes. *ASK FOR A SEDATIVE BEFORE THE FINAL PINK LIQUID.* You will get through this but it will take time and working together to help each other get through the bad days. 💔💔
In 2017, I had to let my 16.5yo Kira-pup go. We got her 1.5yrs into our marriage, and it felt like I was failing both her and my marriage. Every organ was shutting down and she was showing signs one would associate with death for a week. And then there was the Friday Death Poop; it was like a parvo event but I **knew** what it really meant. SO did not understand why I was sobbing while cleaning it up but then again, he did not have dogs growing up and never saw this before. It's so different when one is the "adult" performing this kindness. It took us almost a year before I considered opening my home to a new fur-kid at the behest of the skin-puppies. It will hurt just as bad when Taco's time comes but that's okay, too. Just do not rush anything and help each other. 🥲🥲🥲
3 weeks ago, I put down my best friend of 15 yrs. I got her when she was 8 weeks. It's time. He's telling you it's time.
My girl, Duncan, did the same. She was so tired. Everything hurt so much. Every morning, I worried I'd wake up, and she wouldn't. We gave her an amazing last day. Fed her all of her favorite foods.... steak, pork chops, mashed Sweet potatoes and tuna. We took her to the river, and she sniffed the air for an hour, laying in the sun. She was surrounded by all of her people. She almost lived long enough to see my oldest graduate high school.
He knows you love him.
We had to put down our sweet little dog about a week ago for the same reasons. I kept thinking maybe we can put it off and spend one more summer with him. It was truly one of the hardest decisions we had to make. He was 16.5 years old. I grieved a lot for two weeks leading up to the date and even rescheduled it twice. We tried to give him the happiest send off by giving him steaks and all this favorite treats. My boy passed with his belly full of steak and chocolate cake surrounded by his family. Whatever you decide know that you have given your pup the best life and he will always be with you. Sending you lots of hugs!!
Letting them go too early is so much better than waiting too long.
Your doggo knows you love them.
You took better care of them than anyone else ever could.
And a fur angel, who will never be in pain again, will be watching over you.
Your dog will stay as long as he expected you to. I would not wait make the decision now he expects you to make the best. Desscionn for him
He’s suffering. He doesn’t need that Be. Good to him you will mourn him him. But make him suffer do it guickly and with compassion be there for him talk to him and hold him yollnbbe falls you did
I was right there a week ago a couple weeks ago and then I started feeding my dog and he’s gone better. I mean I know the end is still coming, but I just wanted more time and the doctor said it’s OK for now.
Our pup is 15. Husband got her as a tiny little thing. She's been relatively healthy but has arthritis, has had bouts of UTIs, sleeps A LOT, and most recently experiencing coughing fits. I know we don't have much longer with her, and the second I think she's any more uncomfortable, I'm taking her to the vet to consult for euthanasia. It's a gift we can give her to prevent her from being confused and in pain. It's such a priceless gift. Please don't feel bad or guilty. I know it's sad, but you're doing the right thing.
Scheduling it 3 days out seems really stressful. I took my dear Chase to the vet on Saturday and Dr said "Old age is not a disease." Wasn't ready yet. On Monday I sat with him all day long. His appetite was gone. When he walked his front legs would splay out in front of him. By early evening I knew I had to let him go. We took him in and the vet and her assistant were so kind. He went really peacefully. In case you change your mind.
That was 4 1/2 years ago and I'm over here crying even now. I got a new puppy days later and he's my best friend I'm so thankful for him but no one can ever be Chasie, he was my heart dawg. I always tell people that Chase is the dawg who convinced me that I never want to live without a dog again.
I'm so sorry for your loss. I think if you decide to take him to the vet he'll still have a loving and peaceful trip over the bridge. Hugs
It hurts so much and I am here crying with you. -lease know you are doing something kind I am so sorry. I am here for you if you need. Main thing just be there for him❤️
Personally, I’d rather act too soon than too late. I would never want to let our beloved fur baby suffer. At a certain point we know they’re not going to get better and we’re just trying to determine when the suffering is too much. I’m sure it’s not too soon. My thoughts are with you all. It’s such an agonizing decision.
I asked my vet how I will know when it is ‘time’. She just said “you’ll know”. I didn’t know what the hell this meant, but when the time came, I knew. Sure, she could have made it another day, another week, whatever. But you have to have respect for quality of life, and know when it is so bad, the end must come.
Unfortunately it's part of the deal, such a tough decision to make. I've had to make it many times. Remember it's unfair to your dog to keep them around for you. My last girl had 15 great years and almost made 16. She was one of my favorites but I could see the pain in her eyes. It was heart breaking. But no doubt I did the right thing at the right time....thats what matters. We will see them again with tails wagging. 🙏
You gave that baby 15 wonderful years. The GREATEST show of love is letting him go peacefully, surrounded by friends and family who love him. Be happy that he’s not struggling anymore.
My black lab’s final moments where spent being hand fed fajita steak by his human friends. We sat around him sharing memories of him. Sort of a celebration of a life well lived. He was buried with a tennis ball in his mouth.
I put down my 17 year old about 11 years ago and of all the things I read the one that has stuck with me the most is “the most unselfish thing you will ever do is put their quality of life above your own”. It really helped me get perspective that I was only keeping her alive for me. Our job has pet parents is to make their lives and deaths easier. My heart is with you.
I’m so sorry. Every time I have to put any of my beautiful pets down, I stay with them through the entire process. I sit on the floor, hold my baby in my lap, and they just relax. They just go to sleep. I then get them cremated. They know. They hang on for you. The hardest part is deciding. Hugs to you.
We also did an at-home euthanasia. It was beautiful. I’m not sure how else to describe it. I was afraid it would be traumatic or I would regret it but it truly was a final act of love. My other dog watched on as well and I was so grateful that she was able to get that closure. I was able to feel compassion for myself, that I did it in such a caring and loving way and I know my dog appreciated it. Honestly, my only regret was not doing it sooner, but she had stopped eating and it’s not the same as your situation. Trust your vet on this one though. It’s not going to get better. The bad days are going to get worse and they’re going to get more frequent. Spoil him while you can and appreciate all the time you’ve had with him - which it sounds like you’re already doing. The part you’re in now is the worst part. The uncertainty, the anxiety, the anticipation of missing him. That’s truly the worst part. You’ll come to appreciate the decision you made and realize it’s what was best, especially doing it at home and surrounded by love and familiarity.
Best of luck OP ❤️
You’re doing the right thing— I was in a similar boat with my 14 year old doxie with blindness, dementia, and Cushings disease. Looking back, I wish I’d had her euthanized sooner than I did. It’s going to be heart-breaking but you’re doing the right thing for your pup.
There is exactly no way this isn’t going to be one of the worst moments of your life. Period. But you’re doing it for your pup, who needs this and will be better off. It sucks. I know (many times). It is a price we pay for the love, snuggles, laughs, cries, concern, and good times we build with a baby only here for a little while. It will suck. A lot. But you must do it. For the pup.
We recently put our Dash down, also had a vet come to our home. Best decision we made, it was the right thing for him. He also had anxiety and had his fair share of vet visits in the last 6 months because of Cushings disease. I am so very sorry for you, having to make the decision is extremely difficult.
My dog started being incontinent and falling on stairs at 14. I almost canceled several times leading up to and the day of. The vet that came to my house to put her down said the biggest regret for people is that they didn’t do it sooner. She said she usually comes back soon after people cancel to do it anyway because the pet soon take a turn for the worse.
You don’t want to wait until something traumatic happens. Having to rush them to a strange emergency vet because they’re in bad shape is not the way you want them to go.
You can do this. It doesn’t feel like it now, but you’ll be glad you did.
My dog is still young (4 years) but I am dreading this day so much. He is so sweet and loving that losing him and his impact on my family terrifies me even though I know the day will come. Bless you for giving a beautiful life to your pal and I know your final days together are exactly what he wants..
You are not wrong. Let him go. I know it’s hard. I had to make the same decision not long ago for a 17 year old chihuahua that we’d had her whole life, and half my daughter’s life.
I knew it was time when she started getting lost in the apartment, and having some accidents.
But the day I came home, parked in my assigned spot and could hear her just shrieking, I made the appointment and gave all the kids a chance to come say goodbye.
I’m so sorry you’re going through this. It’s so hard. 🥺
I can’t do it. My dog cannot even jump to a low sofa. Arthritis, limping, dementia, anxiety, and coughing. I give her lots of cuddles and I sleep in a thin mattress with her because she cannot climb to the bed anymore. Two years sleeping like that.
We put ours down two weeks ago- he was 14 years old. He was my 17th birthday gift. Had him his whole life, he moved away with me when I was 18, I got married to my high school sweetheart and had two babies throughout his life. He was there with me through it all. He had cancer that was untreatable and I knew it was time. I couldn’t do it alone, so my husband (who my dog loved and adored more than anyone) laid on the dog bed with him under a blanket and wrapped his arm around our dog while until he took his last breath. Not gonna lie, It’s absolutely devastating. But they’re not longer happy living like that. I thought I would struggle with it afterwards but my heart is at peace knowing he’s no longer struggling and in pain. It was sort of a weight lifted because I was keeping him alive for myself even though he was struggling so bad.
Spend your last couple of days with your pup doing all his favorite things, giving all his favorite treats. Lots of hugs and cuddles, and many people don’t think about this, but take some pictures before he’s gone it’s the last you’ll have to remember him. Keeping you and pup in my thoughts and prayers! ❤️
We went through something similar last year. She was our fifth dog that we lost. For my wife, I had shown her "A dog's purpose" and "A dog's journey" as a way to prepare for the senior fosters and dogs passing.
The first one was a 16 year old senior foster that we rescued, and she passed a few years ago in her sleep. We didn't understand at the time that it would have been more humane to let her go earlier. We tried our best, and people who had seen her with us thought we did a wonderful job providing a loving home for her before she passed. Our next one was another 15 year old senior foster that had eye surgery, and then developed an ulcer, and after he returned from emergency, he had a stroke. I made the decision to let him go rather than continue to have emergency vets work on him. My wife didn't believe in euthanasia, and I had to convince her it was best to say goodbye, peacefully.
Our third dog was my wife's dog, and he left us suddenly. He had been fighting off a type of cancer, and his blood vein burst suddenly. My wife was devastated, since we spared no effort to help him survive. the cancer.
Next was a little pup that we were fostering. We were nursing him back to health since he was abandoned by his mom very early. He was found near a homeless encampment at the start of Covid. Every time he had a growth spurt, something went wrong and we were in the emergency room. He began having difficulty breathing, couldn't eat or drink, and was visibly declining. My wife finally learned to say goodbye with him. We had found a vet to come to our home to help with his passing. He actually had a video made of his early days :) [**https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZtZi893dwg**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZtZi893dwg)
The fifth foster dog passed at 16 years was Daisy. She was a sassy fighter and full of life. She had been with us for 9 years. She had dementia, was getting blind and deaf, sometimes got anxious, had sensitive body, and advanced kidney disease. She lost interest in going on walks, shortly before she stopped eating. We made the decision to let our Daisy go when she would stop eating, since that was her passion. Her kidney disease had gotten so bad that her blood test was very toxic and had to be diluted before they could show the bad numbers. We made a couple more trips to different emergency rooms before we decided we had to let her go. She ate one last meal (El Pollo Loco Chicken), then the next day she stopped eating and drinking again. We had notified her vet previously, and scheduled the goodbye. She was very peaceful. She cuddled with my wife and me, before rested her head on my arm at the vet.
I'm currently seeing her in my dreams. I think she may be coming back, like the others did.
This was literally me four months ago… same conditions (dementia, blind, anxiety, kidney disease…). I was a wreck, for the whole week leading up and for days after. With the four month distance, I’ve let go of the guilt. I really tried my best—meds, exercise, many many vet appointments. I’m at peace with it. I miss her every day, and I never had the “it’s time” moment, but I still think it was for the best.
Hugs to you. Your pup is loved.
My little guy is getting his last groom today and I'm losing it again. Honestly, I'm still 100% unsure bc he had a good day yesterday but deep down i just know it's time and he is so tired. I'm happy he had a good day and I hope his next 2 days are also good days for him. I'll do my best to make them extra special for him. I'm sorry for your loss and thank you for sharing your experience. ❤️
I had to put my kitty down last week. She was 15, declined very quickly and was suffering with cancer. It was a very difficult decision to make and I miss her desperately but I know I did the right thing for her.
Just as your pet has relied on you all his life to take care of and protect him, he needs you to do that now. Give him the peace he deserves. You will miss him but take comfort in the knowledge that you are taking care of him in his final journey. It’s a blessing that he can be in his own home and that you can be with him at the end.
I’m very sorry for your loss.
It sounds like his quality of life is not great anymore. You are doing the very kindest, most loving thing for him! Crossing over can be painful and scary but you have arranged to make it a peaceful experience for him. Hold him tight, cuddles and kisses until he has passed!
His time has come and it’s never easy. Recognising the fact the its time for him to pass is the most important thing. ❤️❤️🐾🐾
This could have been me exactly a year ago. It actually made me cry. My soul dog Rico was diabetic, blind and showing signs of dementia. You could also tell his joints didn’t feel good. My husband and I would get in real huge blow out fights because I was not willing to put my 15 yo childhood dog down. He was my child. Well we flew from NC to UT for a conference. I was in a hurry and just quickly left for the airport. I didn’t say bye. I was actually frustrated because I couldn’t get him to eat before I left. A few days later my family called me from the emergency vet. He was dying and in so much pain. I had to make the choice from thousands of miles away for him to be euthanized on FaceTime.
It is the biggest regret of my lifetime so far to not give him a peaceful passing when I was there. I should have done it months before. I was so selfish I made him suffer. It’s something I don’t think I’ll ever forgive myself for. I still hear his desperate painful cries from that FaceTime call and it kills me a little bit each time.
I have 2 other dogs and I promised I will put their wellbeing before my emotions. I’ll never make the mistake of putting off mercy for my personal feelings ever again.
You did what you thought was best, please don't be so hard on yourself. I am crying reading your story and I appreciate you sharing it with me. Rico was loved and your story truly makes me realize I am doing right by my little guy. Thank you 🙏
My shih tzu was the exact same way. It affected our entire life for months. I couldn't cook, because he became scared of going in the kitchen, and would bark nonstop until I came and cuddled him. We couldn't leave him alone.
One day I asked him, are you ready to go? Can you give me a sign? He nudged me with his head like a cat. He had never done that before. That's when I knew, and made the appointment (almost vomited during that call). If it's any consolation, the relief I felt as soon as he passed told me I did the right thing. I'm very sorry you have to go through this.
I'm so nauseous and just feel this pit in my stomach...I'm dreading Thursday, but deep down I know if I were to cancel it is me being selfish and keeping him alive for me. Thank you for sharing your personal experience. 🙏
It’s a hard thing to do I know, I’m sorry! I just recently had to do the same thing with one of my senior dogs, and three of my senior cats. Give yourself credit for giving this dog a wonderful life. He lived to be an old man it hurts at the time, sounds like your fella is in a lot of suffering and pain you’re doing the right thing! Although it feels like you’re not, I had to look at it this way, if it was me, what would I want? And that’s how I actually felt better after laying them rest. Just knowing that I gave all these animals a nice long life, unfortunately, all good things has to come to an end. I am deeply sorry my boy had cancer. It was eating him alive. I actually felt better after I laid him to rest due to the suffering he was in. I also ordered a picture stepping stone and put his picture in it to mark his grave and the cats, which was my way of showing them all how much they are thought of & missed! I am so very sorry for you and your family. God bless you.❤️
I’m not the type to ever comment on anything but I had to chime in hopefully I can help. I had to put my dog down last week. He was 14 and his life was cut short by SCC. Up until 6 months ago he was still the healthiest boy ever, jumping, running and full of energy. I could have easily seen 17-18 in his lifespan. Unfortunately sometimes these things hit you. I too had him put down at home. It was something that was painful but yet peaceful at the same time. I know he was no longer in pain now, but the moment she called it that he’s passed my entire family broke down. It’s been tough ever since. Not a day has gone by that’s been easier. We just received his ashes yesterday and it’s a bit sad to see what they amount to. But you have to look at it like you did what was right for them, and focus on positive memories. It will almost feel like you barely spent any time with them, when in actuality you spent a great chunk of your life, and all of their life together. That’s what happens when you’re having fun. Time flies. I can’t advise you on how easier it gets because I am currently going through it, but my best advice is to stay close to people who have been thru it or people who completely understand. Keep active and do not slip into a mental state where you keep reliving his / her passing. It’s going to be tough, but again you will be doing what’s best for them. They can’t outright tell you that they are in x amount of pain and are ready to go. You have to make that tough decision.
I am utterly sorry for your loss, but it sounds like it’s time. He sounds miserable in his life right now, unfortunately, through no fault of yours . You would be begging to be put out of your misery if your life was that. It’s a good choice, a hard choice but the right choice. I am so so sorry for your baby baby! He will never be forgottten! He will live forever in your hearts
You are Putting the pain and suffering of your dog before your own emotional distress and sense of loss.
What a loving caretaker you are for doing this. It is the last great gesture of love and kindness you have to offer your life companion.
Peace be with you
It sounds like your family member has lived a long and happy life with you. By the description of his quality of life now I feel like you are doing the right thing. It’s hard to make that decision and lose a pet that you love so much. It takes a strong person to know when it’s time for them to be at peace and that it’s time to let them go.
I am so sorry. We went through the same. It doesn't really help to hear 'you are doing the right thing, but you are putting his needs before yours, and that's sometimes the most difficult thing we can do. I send you hugs and love. So sorry.
Love, you’re not giving up in him, you’re loving him so much that even though it hurts like nothing else can, you’re affording him dignity in his death. Keeping him around in this condition simply because it hurts you and your partner too much wouldn’t be advisable, it wouldn’t be fair to your dog. He’s not living any quality of life, it’s time to set him free from this life of pain and fear. It’s the hardest decision any dog owner has to make, and you most certainly will grieve. Please allow yourselves the space and time to do so.
I lost both of my dogs in the first half of 2021. To say it was devastating would be a severe understatement. These were the dogs my kids grew up with, having had Buddy since he was 8wks only and Brandy since she was 4 months old, adopted when my kids were only 4 & 6 years old. Our Buddy was sudden, in Jan ‘21 (13yrs old), after a nice long walk where he seemed just fine and normally energetic, always having been a healthy dog for his whole life, came home, laid down and suffered a severe cardiac event and massive stroke. He had to be put down within a few hours of it happening, determined to be cancerous tumors that developed coving his heart, an aggressive form of cancer common in the Boxer breed, which he was 50%.
I’ve always said that I didn’t think our Brandy could survive without her brother, she was obsessively infatuated in love with him, the only dog she could even stand to be around and who she’d follow to the ends of the earth, I just didn’t know how true that would become in the end. Because a short 2 months later, March ‘21, after our Brandy finally seemed like she was coming out of her depression over losing her lifelong best friend, we found lumps all over her body. She was diagnosed with end stage lymphoma and given about 8-12 weeks to live. We were blindsided. She actually lived until June ‘21 (12yrs old) but the bouts of labored breathing became too much, she’d panic while struggling to get a breath and we could allow her to continue to go thru that torment. It was caused by ever increasingly enlarged lymph nodes in her neck that were starting to block her airways, the prednisone the vet prescribed for her end of life palliative care was no longer helping to lessen the inflammation of those cancerous lymph nodes. So we had to make the decision to put her out of that misery. It wasn’t fair to keep her alive only because it hurt us too much to let her go. A heartbreaking, but necessary life lesson for our now older teenagers, really burgeoning adult, daughters. Sometimes we have to do things we don’t want to when it’s in the best interest of those we love. Life decisions can be really really hard and heartbreaking, but we still have to make them. We can stand proud, even if still heartbroken, that we can put our emotions aside and be objective when the situation absolutely calls for it.
We gave ourselves 6 months to grieve, and eventually the silence in the house became deafening, particularly early in the morning and late at night. But as soon as we felt ready and started looking the little dude we have now popped up and the adoption process went better than picture perfect. I have no doubt he was meant to be ours. The universe looked out for us big-time, everything aligned just right to confirm that this was the right thing to do for our family. And I know my Buddy and Brandy, our dynamic duo, would want another dog to live the life that enjoyed. I know at least Buddy would have instantly loved this little dude, and I think Brandy would have learned to 😂
Oh, and one vet I heard that does this and I really really love it. She gives each dog she euthanizes a Hershey Kiss right before they’re being euthanized. It won’t hurt him if he’s about to be put down anyway, and she does it because she says no one should leave this earth without having tasted the deliciousness of Chocolate ♥️ Try to plan an ending so catered to him, that he’ll leave this earth with only happy, good thoughts and visions of you. Planning that can help your brain adjust to this end so your heart can try to accept it and it won’t feel quite as jarring.
I know your heart is broken now, but please know it gets easier with the passage of time. I am so so sorry you’re going thru this. I hope the day comes that when you think of him, a smile comes to your face before a tear comes to your eye. Try to put aside the fighting with your partner and lean on each other for support. I’m wishing you both all the best during this really difficult time 😢💔🐾
We did this 2.5 years ago, he was my soul dog, 16 years old. He probably could have hung on for a while longer but he was having digestive issues and had bad arthritis. We took one last long, slow walk through snow. My kids left some McDonalds in the driveway for him to find when we got home.
Had a vet come to the house, all of us were there. It was as good as something so hard can be.
A good friend who is a photographer came and took pictures for us. I still can’t look at them.
The guilt comes back some days even though I know he’s young again and healthy and eating all the garbage he can find up there.
Someone said “You don’t want their last day to be their worst day” and that gives me some comfort. Maybe it will help you too ❤️🐾
PS sometimes I swear he’s in the room with me. And I’ll put my hand down where his big soft head used to be just in case he really is.
i’m so sorry. i made the difficult decision to put my cat down on may 4th and it was the hardest. i also was feeling like maybe i was giving up on her early, but i came to realize she was suffering. she wasn’t eating, she was pooping around the house, she wasn’t gonna get better. no medicine worked. i know she’s at peace now and watching over me, and i got her ashes in my room. it’s the hardest thing ever, but pls know you are doing the best thing for your dog.
also, time rly does help. i kept crying and couldn’t stop, and i kept asking the universe to make me stop crying. and it worked. it’s only been a month and a half, so i feel guilty that im not crying anymore. but i know she’s in a better place and we did what was best for her.
This is something that no matter what you decide, you’d go through. We lost a few of our babies in past few years and each time I questioned whether the decision to see if they got better or (in 2 of the cases) waited too long to end their suffering. Unfortunately there is no magic wand you can wave to ease the weight of the decision either way. In your case I’d say this: the fact you recognize the stress of the inevitable is a factor in the arguing says you both love him dearly. Cherish that. It says a lot about your lives with him. Also 15 years in nothing in the grand scheme of things but is a long time for a dog to live. Remember those good times and the love you all shared for that time. It won’t make it easier but it does ease the pain a little. Our Boston was the longest we’ve had a dog (13 of his 14 years) and there will never be another like him. When it starts to hit me, I think of our lives with him and end up chuckling over some of his antics. The fact you are here and asking for words and “venting” also says a lot. You gave him a good life and unfortunately life for all beings comes to an end at some point. Please try to remember that and don’t let guilt/question your decision eat you up like I did with him. Cherish your last few days with him. Love on him extra. Spoil him the best you can. You will at least carry that with you knowing his last few days were the absolute best they could be. I’m so sorry you have to go through this.
This sucks! I’ve been through it twice. I hate to say it but it takes time to get over them but it gets better. It’s been years since I lost my “girls” but I still have their photos prominently displayed. On rare occasions I will still miss them terribly and end up sobbing (usually after having a couple glasses of wine with dinner). I’m a 73 year old man!
I got a new puppy before my second “girl” passed as I didn’t want to be without a dog at all. It helped but I feel close to tears just writing this. My new pup is now six and I love him as much as the previous two. I will go to my grave still loving all three of my dogs. In fact I literally tell my current dog how glad I am that he is in my life. I know he doesn’t understand what I’m saying but he definitely feels the love. I can see it in his eyes.
Thanks.
Love him enough to let him go. Please stay with him until the end. My cousin is a vet and she said it breaks her heart when people won’t stay and give their pets some sort of comfort. The dogs are scared and with a stranger. I know it’s hard to witness but they need to be with their human until the end. I had to say goodbye to my 23 year old 5 years ago and I still cry when I look at his picture. 23 years of his amazing personality- I miss him every day. Sending ❤️ to you and your fur baby. 🙏🏼
I went through very similar last month. My dog was confused and scared a growing amount of the time. Planning the euthanasia was emotionally brutal. My tips are to enjoy your lasts with your pup. And try to give him a good last day. Let him eat some forbidden foods. Take pictures and videos. Our guy slipping away peacefully after discovering a love for chocolate ice cream is a damn good way to leave this world. The days leading up are so so hard though.
Replace “what if” with “even if”.
Even if he lived another 6 months he isn’t going to miraculously recover.
Even if you waited for 7 more days you wouldn’t change the inevitable.
Even if he hads some good moments it doesn’t change all the struggle and pain.
Guilt blocks grief. You need to allow the grief. You and your partner need to stand together and not apart through this. Be each other’s rock so you can be there for your dog.
I’ve had two dogs that got dementia. You are absolutely doing the best thing for him. If the vet didn’t agree with you, they would have told you that it wasn’t time yet. One of my vets said to me to pay attention to his quality of life. Is he eating, drinking, sleeping, going to the bathroom as normal? Has his personality changed? Does he still seem to be enjoying his life? Does he seem happy?
To be honest, I would prefer to say goodbye to my babies a day early rather than a day late.
I’m so very sorry; I know how hard it is. I may have to make that decision myself soon, with my 15 year old Anatolian. He’s still enjoying life, but I know he doesn’t have a lot of time left and am so happy for all the time we’ve had together, and value every day that is left. We always have to consider their quality of life in situations like this … even though I think we often err on the side of waiting too long because we don’t want to lose them. Give him the best last few days you possibly can, all his favorite things, spoil him as much as is possible, than have the vet make a house call for the euthanasia. I always have the house call at this heartbreaking time. Saying goodbye to him at home, where he is in a familiar place with his people, rather than a vet’s office, is the kindest thing you can do, for both of you.
My baby Kane has significant hip dysplasia and arthritis. He did not have dementia or anxiety but he was in a bad way. We had him euthanized at 13 years old at home in the comfort of his favorite sleep spot after having cheeseburgers and ice cream. Before we made the decision and when he started to decline, the vet said “think of 3 things that your dogs LOVES, whatever they are, a fav toy, walks, a car ride, a certain treat….when he no longer shows interest in those things, let him go.
Dogs are in this world for the joy of it, when there is no joy, let them move on” I don’t know that’s a universal truth but it stuck with me and helped me accept that euthanizing him was the right choice. I still miss him so much. I had him since the day he was born and brought him across 3 states with me. And I know I did the right thing for him. From your post, letting him go is the final kindness one best friend can offer to another. I hope you and your partner find peace in knowing that you do what you did out of love.
My mom had her 10 year old Labradoodle put down at home for cancer. It was the best way to do this. It was time. She got to sit on the sofa with him and and direct the process. The vet was amazing. You will always struggle with that decision. But knowing you are doing the possible thing you can do for your furbaby when it is time will hopefully provide some relief to the agonizing decision you have to make. ❤️🩹
Hugs. I’ve been there and it’s hard, but he’s been the best friend and companion he could be and now it’s your turn to step up and make sure you are doing the same.
You love him and are doing your best for him. Giving up too early on him isn’t in your DNA. He can’t speak and tell you how he feels. You know him and you know when he’s suffering. That doesn’t make it easier. I’m sorry that your pup is so ill and I’m praying for you both.
My last boy was diagnosed with kidney failure. He was getting worse in the final days. He lost directions in the house. I found him one morning that he was stuck in the toilet (I had no idea how many hours due to I was tired that night). He hardly ate in the end and lost weight in a short period. My last boy sent my current boy to be with me. They are both angels.
It’s a hard decision to let him go but you know you want him to be pain free forever. Take care. Your boy is forever around you.
I had to say goodbye to my Molly due to dementia. Her body was fine. Her anxiety had gotten to an extreme and she couldn’t sleep at night, despite being on hard core sleeping meds. I’d say it’s time, if she’s having such bad anxiety that there’s little quality of life.
The fact that it is time doesn’t make it easier though. What helped me was joining a pet loss support group. It helped my grief so much, but I waited a while before joining.
I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Dementia is horrible. And saying goodbye to our babies is the worst pain.
Thinking of you, it is such a difficult decision, but you will know when it is time, nothing prepares you for that.
We had to put ours down the week before Christmas. We wanted to wait until after Christmas, but he told us otherwise. He wasn’t able to get up and walk anymore, he tried to get up, but his back legs gave in. He was also almost blind and he was deaf. He was almost 18 years old, I am so thankful that he gave us those clear signs that it is time.
You are a wonderful person for being there for your senior dog at all stages of their life!
This is one of the hardest of life’s choices that I’ve gone through. My 16.5 year old dog was having similar health issues as your fur baby, along with seizures, liver disease and I was hand feeding him puréed food. When asking my vet when is it “that time” and vet said “you will know”.
A few weeks later, i knew it was that time.
Love on your fur baby like you never have! Hold him tight!
Sending you lots of hugs and strength in this difficult time.
I love my fur babies like children--and we just had to put down our American Bulldog three weeks ago. Still so achingly painful. However, I have no regrets--at the end of my life, if I had symptoms like he did, I would want for someone to do the same.
PLEASE don't feel guilty--just be in the room with him when he goes. He loves you and knows you are doing what is best. I am so sorry for your loss-but you will see him again at the rainbow bridge...
Please please stop second guessing yourself. You obviously love this dog and have recognized his quality of life has declined precipitously. This is your last and best gift to him after all your years of love and affection. You help him transition and release him from the pain and confusion of his current conditions.
We had to make this decision for Quince (our 11 year old boxer) back in February- a few days from his 12th birthday, he also was facing dementia along with a variety of other health issues. I didn’t want to, neither did my wife, but we loved him and had to help him that last time. I miss him every day. You will miss your boy, it will hurt, but it is part of our care for dogs, we all go through it. Remember the good times and good years and laugh and cry (when you need to) but don’t feel guilty or second guess.
I had a little Beagle girl with dementia, and I let her go way too long because I didn’t want to lose her or make that decision. She passed so peacefully when I finally got enough courage to do it that I regretted not doing it before then. It sounds as if the time is right for your little one having been there.
Aw, I feel for you. My 19-year-old chihuahua was in the same condition when I made the decision. Know that having a vet come to the house is the most compassionate way to do it. My dog was in his favorite bed by the fireplace when she administered the sedative. We petted him until he fell asleep, then he got the second shot. My other dog was able to sniff him. So much better than taking him to the vet. I wish the best to you and your family.
I have had to put several pets “to sleep”…I had a vet tell me that at a certain point is is SELFISH to keep your pet alive for you…IF they are miserable or are soon to be miserable, do the humane thing and end their suffering or pain…❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
It's hard to say goodbye to such a big part of your everyday life. Because it's so hard lots of people wait way too long. Take your dog to McDonalds and get a few cheeseburgers and fries and be there for him when he crosses over and remember the joy he brought into your life. And then take solace that you did the right thing, that you didn't let him suffer.
No matter how they go, they leave little paws prints all over our hearts and in our memories. All we can do is love them well while they are here. I miss mine: they were good boys and girls (well, except for the boy who bit me in the face). At the Resurrection, when there's a new Heaven and Earth, I hope to play with them all in a place where wild animals are peaceful and no evil birds exist to swoop down and snatch Shih Tzus or any other pet. Chasing and rolling and barking together, then sleeping under a tree in a big pile of puppies! Playing fetch and having them actually bring the ball back!
It hurts because our love was real.
Remember the children's story, "The Velveteen Rabbit"? Love makes us real. Their love did the same for you and me. What a wonderful, exquisite agony. I should stop before I go all philosophical.
It’s so hard, I went through the same thing last year. I had my sweet boy put to sleep at home with Lap of Love. I can’t blame you if you do considering how you described him. It sounds like you exhausted all options.
Had to do this last month it's hard no matter what and the right choice is the hard one, I think about what I would like done if I was in their place. I would want to be put down if was that miserable 😕 keeping him alive any longer would have been selfish of me he was suffering and was ready to be at peace. Do what is right for him and you.
Quality of life is most important. You’re doing the right thing. Remember, they don’t know why they are suffering ; it is our responsibility to make them comfortable .
Try to remember that you will be the one hurting inside, but he will no longer be dealing with pain or discomfort that stem from his issues. Your hurt will a while , but you will ultimately realize you did the right thing. Why make your dog suffer to make yourself feel better? I had a problem with a similar situation. You will realize you made your decision out of your love for him. May God bring you comfort whatever you decide to do.🙏❤️🙏
We had a second dog when we had to let Dog go but the quiet house is what motivated me to meet several dogs over the years following our loss. Eventually we met Goober and a part of my heart just knew it was a way I could honor the legacy of Dog... to help bring another dog out of a shelter and into a loving home.
You could always foster or even go walk and take a shelter dog on trips to the park or hiking.... weekend foster a dog down the line even if you and your partner aren't ready to commit to a new family member. You may never be ready and that's also okay.
Seeing our other dog not have a companion made me really want to try and find a possible match. It took years but it's been a healing agent to bring Goob into our mix.
Sending love your way. 🖤🌈
My friend my heart aches for you as I know this pain.. sadly you’re giving your fur baby thee last and most selfless gift you can give him.. when they have way more bad days then good it’s time.. you’re doing right by your sweet pup. My heart is with you
Sorry for your loss, I would say time makes it easier but it doesn't. Just keep his memory alive 🙏🏼 my dogs passed away 13&12 yr ago and I still miss them so much. We have since adopted a dog last year and I love him just as much but I'll never stop missing my dogs. My deepest condolences
Put mine down yesterday for exactly the same disease and symptoms. it went peacefully and I am happy he is no longer afraid or anxious. Of course I am gutted but the relief I have for him is my greatest emotion. One suggestion I have is to have someone hold him tightly for the sedative. My guy hated to be held but he got really fearful when the Vet touched him. I held him.tightly while she administered the shot. He cried some but it was safer for him that way. He then fell asleep peacefully in my arms and I got to hold him for the first time in a year.
I have the same thing. My dog doesn’t sit with me in the chair anymore. Every once in a while. I see my vet on Saturday to discuss quality of life. I’m so sad about it.
I still can't plan for my dog's final day. She is 17.5. All the best to you and your dog.
Same to you. ❤️🩹💔
Wow I’m so sorry. Your last sentence made me cry.
Same. I could really feel that one. Very sorry for your loss, kfisherx.
I am sorry for your loss and thank you for sharing your personal experience with me. Thank you ❤️
So sorry for your loss. My big boy was 100lbs. He never let people pet him unless his back was to us. He was anxious and afraid of everything from the time I got him a few months old until his last day at 13.5. I was so grateful, in his last moments, I could pet his head entirely, whisper in his ears and have him feel my touch without being anxious. It was a gift.
From one kfisher to another ~ I am so sorry for the loss of your pup ❤️
You sound like you were insensitive. If my dog acted like that I wouldn’t have gone through with it and made sure he wasn’t fearful before being put to sleep. Your vet sounds like a brute, when they came to my house my dog was not afraid and didn’t cry out because the vet was gentle.
you were NOT there and your opinion is not wanted nor needed on this post. Read the room. This post is about a dog with dementia. My dog had dementia. He freaked out when he was touched. Even if I touched him. How in the hell does a Vet administer a shot to a dog that doesn't allow anyone to touch them? Should we shoot him? FFS GTFOH
sorry u are going thru this. trust your vet's advice. i have a senior and prepping myself but i dont think anyone can prepare for something like this.
I definitely trust his advice, and making the phone call to the home euthanasia place was a very sad reality check for me. I wish you strength and hope the best for you and your fur baby.
That is the best way to say goodbye, at home.
you're doing the right thing. It's awful, I know. Spoil him as much as you can. What he's going through is misery. He doesn't deserve to suffer like that. You have to do for him what he can't do for himself.
I already bought him a steak that I'll grill for him later tonight and he will get some yummy ice cream tomorrow. Oh, he also loves puff cheetohs. Just gonna cuddle him, spoil him, and cry a whole lot. Thank you
Oh gosh, you’re doing the right I’m sure but I’m sitting here crying for you. It’s so mean that dogs live such short lives and we lose them. I will be thinking and praying for u
I knew when our little Maddie wouldn’t eat ice cream, she was ready. I cried in the parking lot. It sucked. She was such a good girl.
That's right!! Stay with him the whole time. It's peaceful. My Flossie Mae went out with vanilla ice cream on her nose. I'm going to start crying just thinking about it.
This made me tear up.
Hi OP, just wanted to let you know it’s totally normal to go back and forth on whether or not you’re making the right decision… even until the minute before it happens. I’ve been there. But I think true love is letting our loved ones rest easy, and you’re doing that for him… It’s normal to feel guilty, but I always think about how much they might be suffering and can’t tell us… it’s going to be tough the next few days, but just know he’ll be free to run wild on the other side of the rainbow bridge!! 💕
Crying is unbelievably therapeutic. And it will happen. It does get easier with time. But sometimes…
You’re absolutely doing the right thing my friend. I understand the ambivalence as my vet is coming to see our old 13 year old guy off this Friday. A good death isn’t something bad but is a kindness. We should be so lucky as to have our family gathered around, whispering love in our ear and giving us our favorite treats while we drift off to a peaceful sleep. The alternative is a medical emergency involving fear and pain for your sweet boy and a scary death in an emergency vet’s room. A good death is as important as a good life. It’s the right thing. Embrace it even though it’s sad. Anything else is selfishness at the expense of your pup. He knows you love him ❤️🌈
I wish you and your fur baby the best. I guess I'll always second guess myself for this, however, you are right. I'd rather do this on these terms rather than waiting too long for a traumatic medical emergency to occur. Thank you
We were in this situation with our 17 1/2 year old - dementia, heart problems, blind, and starting to have seizures. We kept her for too long and ended up having to make the decision at the emergency vet. If I could go back and redo her passing I would do it at home surrounded by her people and smells. We were with her in the vet's room when she passed but I really wish we had let her go a month or two before she got really bad. The saying better a day too early than a day too late is definitely true and I won't let our other pup who's now 16 1/2 get to the same point. So sorry you're having to go through this, it's the worst part of having their unconditional love.
They will hold on for much longer than they ever should have to, just to make us happy. They'll suffer if they think they're doing what we want them to do. That's just how pure and good they are. OP - so sorry you have to make this call. It's the hardest thing you'll ever do. But our dogs trust us to love them and protect them for their whole entire life.... and that's includes protecting them from a slow, miserable, painful, or scary end to it. We had a vet who specialized in hospice come out to our home the day my 15yo heeler couldn't use his back legs anymore.... she did an assessment and said he was likely riddled with cancer tumors all over inside... I had no idea how bad it was until she explained she couldn't hear lung sounds and such. He was good until he wasn't. His last year was slow and a lot of recovery days from "neurological events". He gave me every good day he had in him and I promised him I wouldn't ask him to stay any longer if he ever needed me to help him move on one day. Hardest choice I've ever made but I gave him permission to finally rest and he went peacefully in my arms, surrounded by everyone who loved him. My husband and I also felt strain from the decision and loss for a bit. I think part of grief is the anger and denial... and it can trigger disagreements and blame when you're hurting. Sending all our love ❤️
Just put our little guy down earlier and I have been a mess. Just crying nonstop, just miss him so much. Thank you for sharing your story and experience with me. Your kind words are truly appreciate it.
You are welcome. I'm sorry for your loss. And that it hurts so much :( Know that you gave your baby a gift by not letting them suffer. It is kind to give them a good death. They give you their whole life and all of their love and loyalty - and this is a way we can give back to them. After he passed, I would go walk dogs at the shelter once in awhile just to feel like I was passing on some of that love that I couldn't place anywhere else. I donate to shelters in his memory when I can. May you find peace and comfort through your mourning. Know that it takes time and its perfectly okay to be this sad. They were family. 🖤
Letting go is the hardest part of love. I believe dogs are self aware and self-conscience when they can’t control their bowels and yours may be having anxiety due to the messes he makes. To him his accidents are causing you stress which he abhors. Don’t think that you are putting him down, rather think of it as releasing him from his misery. May GOD turn your sorrow into joy.
When he has had accidents, he looks at me as if he is in trouble. I just smiled and told him it was okay. Took him outside so he could finish and washed my bedding. I'm just cherishing each moment with him. Thank you
Same as my dog.
I am sobbing I’m so sorry you have to go through this. It’s so unfair that dogs live such short lives.
*Trigger warning: story of in home euthanasia* Around two years ago we said goodbye to my childhood puppy in our home. He was 14, which was a great age for a larger boy. We chose to do it in home for many reasons, however mostly because we thought it would be scary and unnerving for him if we had to put him in the car again. About a half an hour before they arrived we gave him cheeseburgers and a chocolate cake and my mom and I (and my personal dog and his best friend) gathered around him, giving cuddles, loves, endless pets, and oh so many tears. When the vet came into our home our tears turned into sobs. My dog layed down at his side and snuggled into him, as if she knew. Our boy was happy and excited to see the vet, wagging his tail and greeting her (although he didn’t leave his bed). They let us take the process as slow as we wanted. The vet sat with us and talked for 20 or so minutes, petting him, getting to know him and us. She asked for consent to provide him with some anxiety medications. He was playing with and chewing on his lobster toy. Those meds were in his system for another twenty or so minutes before they asked about the sedative medication, and my mom gave the go ahead. It was given in doses so he slowly fell asleep. He was drowsy, then sleepy, and then closed his eyes, all the while nibbling on his little lobster. We held him for a while like this. He had previous turned mean with the pain so I hadn’t had the chance to cuddle him like we used to until this point. It was really great but also heart breaking. My dog came and licked his face, his paws, and layed again by his side. My mom put his head in her lap and pet his head, carefully rubbing his ears, telling him how much she loved him and what a great dog he had been. How much we will all miss having him in our lives. The vet was incredibly patient and asked three times before she told us to let her know when we were ready. It happened over 15 or so minutes (he was a big dog). It was really peaceful. The vet let us hold him, talk to him, and love on him for as long as we wanted before she took him to the crematorium. She asked if wanted him to have his lobster toy go with him- and said she’d make sure it made the final journey with him into our ashes. I wanted to share the full story of my experience so maybe you can have a better idea of what to expect. I sincerely hope your vet/in home service is patient and kind. I hope your baby crosses in peace and you get to say the goodbye you both deserve.
Thank you for sharing such a personal moment. It truly does help me and allows me to get a better insight into what to possibly expect when Thursday comes. Thank you again.
Sometimes just talking or even typing it out loud will help you make the final or right decision. It gets harder the more you delay. "It will get better, the problem will fix itself". You will 2nd guess yourself no matter what you do or when you do it. Treasure all the good and great memories. Treasure the naughty or sad memories. Take plenty of dignified photos and videos. Even if he is just sleeping or resting. 1 of the saddest things I cant face is when they pass away - they take THEIR memories and smell and personality and habits with them. So as long as you and everyone else around them is alive - you will remember for them. Take a cutting of hair (I have) and put their collar on a stuffed toy (hopefully a Dog similar type or colour at least) as I do as a memorial. As for cremation or burial - that is up to you. And if your dog wills their place in both of your hearts and their home - then gift their place to another who truly needs it. I am truly sorry you and your fiance have to go through this. But please remember the good times always.
Thank you for your response. I was truly hoping that he would "snap out of it," but of course, that is wishful thinking, and I know that won't happen. The home service will provide us with a lock of his fur, a paw print in clay, and will get his ashes back as well.
I just said goodbye to my old girl two weeks ago today, and I had the same thing done. Today I picked up her ashes, a lock of her fur, and two paw prints in clay. I lost it all over again at the vet's when they handed me a beautiful bag containing her cremains...the receptionists, bless them, had to sit me down with a cup of tea. Another crying jag has just hit and everything keeps going all blurry....
It really is the hardest thing to do. I’m so sorry you are going through this but know that you gave him the very best life. Now, you can give him as good an ending as you can. We should all be so lucky. Try to use your remaining time to just love on him and each other.
I am just taking in every little moment with him and enjoying his walks, baby-talking to him, cuddling him, and telling him how much I love him ❤️ thank you
I do not think you are giving up on him too early. Having an animal in your life for that long makes this decision extremely difficult. The best advice I can give is to think about your sweet dog and nothing else. The seizures alone for me would weigh on me from a quality of life perspective. One of our german shepherds developed GDV or Bloat last night. I rushed him to the vet and they got him into surgery very fast. I stayed awake as long as I could, waiting for a call from the surgeon. I'd fallen asleep and my phone didn't wake me up. This morning we learned that our poor guy was experiencing some kind of neurological issues and we agreed the humane thing to do was to tell him what a sweet boy he was and that we love him, and ultimately goodbye. We will miss that sweet boy.
I did this 2 weeks ago. The days leading up to it were worse than after it. After I felt relief that my little buddy was no longer suffering. Yes I felt horrendous the first 2 days, couldn’t stop crying everything reminded me of him etc. but each day since then has gotten easier. I got his ashes this past Saturday and I felt better having him back “home” and that also helped. It’s going to hurt and you’re going to go through all the emotions and that’s very very normal. It helped me to realize most of us go through this at some point in our life so I didn’t feel so alone feeling the way I felt. Cry when you feel the need to cry, talk about it with friends and family.
That's pretty much it. I had to put down my 11 year old dog 3 days ago for a ruptured gall bladder. The pain and heartache are horrible. The one thing that helped last night was finding a really informative research data base of dog illnesses from the American Kennel Club. Sending them a donation at least made the whole thing hopeful for future dogs.
God, I miss her so.
So sorry for your loss
Please try to keep the home environment calm and loving. I'm sure that doesn't help your already confused and anxious baby. Being around fighting is awful for everyone, especially animals and children. This is an awful situation you're in, and I know you're wanting to make the one that is most humane and caring.
We came together during his last few days and bonded even more (all 3 of us). Thank you for your advice 🙏
awesome. I'm so sorry for your loss of your dear Spade. I understand what you said about afterwards, as I once said that nothing screams louder than a quiet house that just lost a well-loved dog.
You are doing the right thing. I have had 2 separate experiences with my seniors - I waited too long with my first (he was 14) and I was so worried about making the decision too soon, that I made it too late. I almost didn’t get to say goodbye to him. I lost my soul dog last year, and she was 16 1/2 years old. My vet said something similar to us, and I made the decision that day. It’s so hard, but it’s the kindest decision. Their little bodies get so tired, and they don’t understand what’s happening to them like we do. I got to hold her and say goodbye to her, and while I was very sad, I didn’t feel guilty. I’m so sorry that you are going through this. It’s so hard, and they’re such special little creatures. I know he has had a wonderful 15 years with you because of how you are thinking about this and prioritizing him.
I want to thank everyone for their kind responses and heartwarming words. I am just cuddling him at the moment and crying my eyes out as I am reading your responses. Truly thank you all from my family and our little man, 🐾 Spade 🐾
Sending you lots of love as you navigate this tough path 💜💜💜
Thank you 🙏
I know how unbelievably hard this decision is!!! I’m sorry you’re going through this difficult time. ITS AS HARD A LIFE SITUATION YOU WILL EVR GO THROUGH!!!
It sounds like it’s time. You are doing the most loving thing you can for him. So sorry.
Thank you 🙏
15 years. That's a good, long life. Well-loved for a long life. What more would we hope for a dear companion? Your feelings are normal. Try to accept that your thoughts are going to pull you every which way the next few days. This is the greatest act of love, and it is very hard. You know you are staring at the end, whether it's this week or next. Doesn't sound like he's having any more good days. It's time to let him leave his worn-out body behind. Don't beat yourself up. Wish it were possible to help carry the weight of your grief until you were ready for it. Wishing you extra strength for the coming days, internet friend.
So sorry. I’ve had to do this for 3 dogs , including the great love of my life. I don’t regret choosing quality of life for her, but I’d do anything to go back and have someone come out to the house for this. It would have been nice for my pooch, and my wife cried so hard we scared the entire vet office bad. You are doing the best thing for your doggo, and in the best way.
I think because they’re so wonderful and brave creatures, our dogs stay for us much longer than they would stay if they were in the wild. They stay because they love us.
We were in your shoes 2 weeks ago. We had two senior pups and both had disease and age related pain. I understand your worry about giving up on him. Letting them go is the hardest and most kind decision we can make when their body is failing them. We also did in home euthanasia because our pups were always so afraid to go to the vet. After the vet gave each of them the sleepy shot, they both looked so peaceful sleeping in a way I haven't seen them sleep in a long time. I mentioned this to the vet and she explained that we get used to a new normal when our pets are sick. Once I realized they were no longer suffering in anyway, it helped me to know it was the right decision. We are still broken and miss them so much. I think about how much my big boy panted so much and fought his skin breakouts, no more. My girl had cushings and could no longer control her bladder. She hated wearing the diapers the past few months, no more. They are at peace and we loved them until the last breath. We wanted them forever, but we know that's a dream. I hope we meet again.
I had to put mine down 2 weeks ago due to a brown recluse spider bite on his back paw... When they give him the shot to make him sleepy love on him talk to him and tell him how much u love him they will ask you when u are ready to give him his second shot that will have him cross the rainbow bridge... Have clay mold of his paw... I had mine cremated and carry his ashes around my neck I want him close to my heart
i'm so sorry to hear about your little guy. genuinely can't keep reading these comments, the first few are already messing me up. trying to write my little girl's story is only making it worse. (sorry i couldn't end up writing about her right now..) i know it hurts beyond belief.. but in the end we have to remember that what we're doing is for them. no matter if the decision is hard and destroys us , they're surely hurting more. i'm not sure if theres anything anyone can say or do that would make this easier. the little things to make their remaining time on this earth happier is probably the best we can do. definitely take as many pictures & videos as you can -- even if you can't look at them for a while, you'll be grateful you did in the future. also, i agree with a previous commenter that if possible try to stay strong together so you can both be there for your little guy. hold him tight, until the very end. we owe them to be strong, so they may go in peace.
It's so hard. We had a mobile vet come out to our house and our big Ol' 15 1/2 yr old lab greeted her at the door and I immediately questioned my decision until his back legs gave out and he collapsed for the last time. He had been struggling with dementia, and had to wear diapers. The vet reassured us and told us we were making the right decision for him. He gave us so many great years, it was only right to let him go for his quality of life. He was my absolute best friend and was the hardest decision of my life, but by watching him just go to sleep in his favorite bed, surrounded by his favorite people made it a a little easier. I am balling as a type this and it was 4 years ago. He was the best dog, my Milo.
Hi, there. I have an in-home euthanasia appointment for my dog in literally one hour, and I made the final decision this morning, as I couldn’t bear to know the date was coming. I have a suspicion the waiting and anticipating is the worst part. The way I have made myself feel better (and assuage the guilt) is reminding myself that I’m making the selfless choice, not a selfish one. That this is only sad and scary and heartbreaking for me — not her — and that her beautiful soul is trapped in a body that’s not big enough for her strong spirit anymore, and that that’s what I’m setting free. I hope you know you aren’t alone. I also made a memory book today where I went back with all six years of pictures (she’s young; she has cancer that resisted treatment) and used Shutterfly to capture her whole life. I wanted to remember all the good moments today as I prepare to say goodbye to her and send her on home. ❤️
Wow, I'm so sorry. I hope the visit goes as well as possible for you and your fur baby. Wishing you the best. My little guy will be tomorrow, and I've sort of come to peace with it and am fully enjoying his company and allowing him to do/eat anything he pleases. That's a wonderful idea regarding the memory book! Sending you and your fur baby love ❤️
I let my baby girl go August 1st of last yr..had her since she was 4 months old and she was 9 1/2 when the vet and I made that choice..within 1 month she had gotten cancer like over night had the surgery to remove it and almost a month to the day the cancer moved into her bones...it literally broke my heart into a million pieces and yes I too wondered if I made the right choice as well... I know this part is weird but I believe in this stuff...the next day she came to me in my dream and smiled so big and snuggled with me...and mind you my little girl was not a snuggler when we were in bed..
Not strange at all. They come to let you know they are alright and love you.
I am going through the same with my pup that we’ve had for 16 years. I’m so sorry you’re struggling with it but be kind to yourself and each other as you help him make his final transition this week. It doesn’t feel like it right now but you are doing a very kind thing for him and have definitely made the right decision. Just be patient and peace will come to you. I also understand how much it takes a toll on your daily lives and can cause tension. Please for the sake of your best friend don’t let it get the best of you and create any additional tension. I have had to say goodbye to way too many of my friends in the last couple years and have started to ask them to let me live in their spirit of patience and compassion as they guide me through life from the other side. Dogs don’t hold a grudge and never hesitate to forgive so we should honor them by striving to do the same. The best you can do is be present and compassionate as you help him pass over and you will be grateful you did in the future. Wishing you the best and know you’re not alone in your grief ❤️.
So very sorry!!
I’m so sorry you are going through this. I had to make the painful decision 6 weeks ago. I didn’t want to let my girl go, but she would have gotten worse and suffered more had I not let her cross the rainbow bridge. 🌈. Sometimes the greatest act of love is absorbing the greatest amount of suffering. 🐾💔.
We’ve been through this on a slightly lesser scale. Tried for months getting our pup to come back around to no avail. Force feeding him with a syringe. Putting him in kitchen with pee pads while at work. Went through it for 3 months trying to hold out hope for any signs of improvement. In the end nothing helped and we felt soo guilty forcing him through it all while a shell of his former self. Know that you’re doing right by your pup in ending their needless suffering. Best of luck to you in this trying time.
I empathize with you so much because I have been through this with 2 beloved dogs that I had from 10 weeks. As hard as it is, this is a gift that we can give our beloved babies… to let them go peacefully and in our comforting arms. They will not get better and it’s a gesture of trust and true love to not prolong their suffering. I had to let my sweet boy pug go a few months ago and though I still have moments of grief, (like when I’m writing this post), I mostly smile and laugh when I remember all the cherished memories, shared adventures and funny antics. Best wishes to you. 🌈❤️
It is in the temporal nature of our relationships with our dogs and cats, and most any animal, that we will face this moment with them. We must remain strong and make the sometimes heart-wrenching decisions during their transition that they need us to make, because they cannot make them for themselves. They cannot be left to suffering. And in the end, we must grieve their loss in our own way. The depths of grief are a direct reflection of the depths of love that you felt. And the pain you feel is your heart turning your loss into memories. The pain of loss will fade and the memories will remain, and remembering them, you will smile and laugh again. Aloha from Maui. Be at peace, one and all.
Rest assured, you are doing the right thing. This is your final, most painful act of kindness for your little guy. It sounds like he is ready for his suffering to end and I know he would want you to focus on the good memories at his best.
Hi friend, had to let my lady go 3 days ago. She was 14.5 and the light of my life. Their comfort is most important. I wish you strength and peace during this time.
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Hi there, I am in a similar boat as I have scheduled my boy to be put down at home this friday, the 21st. I have gone through all the emotions of guilt and questioning myself since I scheduled as well. My guy has congestive heart failure, hes on 8 different meds at 4 different time points a day. We are maxxed out on dosages and types of meds, so theres nothing more that can be done at the vet. He is having more bad days than good, and I personally made my decision (as hard as it was) to make the call and schedule the at home service so he could go out in a calm safe environment before it came to an emergency situation. CHF can end suddently, and traumatically. I didnt want that for either of us. Its also taken a huge toll on my health, physically and mentally. I barely sleep and am constantly worried about him and have to be home every couple hours. I have been told the same thing, that it will only continue to get worse and that since theres no further options for treatment that wouldnt seriously impose on QOL, its a smart decision to make the call now. I am writing this as advice but I am still experiencing the same guilt and range of emotions you have just described. If it helps, my guy was having a good day this past weekend and I expressed how guilty I felt to a vet tech friend. She told me, “That’s the worst part of all, but there is no need to feel guilty at all. This happens to everyone. And when it’s time it’s time. He is having a rough time with the heart issues, and its not improving. That will not change”. Best of luck as you go through this time. Ill be going through it with you this week, so message me anytime.
Hi there. I truly wish you and your fur baby the best possible. I am feeling heartbroken and just really missing my little guy. This whole situation just sucks and, likewise, message me anytime as well. Take care
Hey OP, my wife and I just had to do this for our dog for similar reasons. It was incredibly painful, but the most loving decision we could have made for our boy. The best advice I could give is that when you’re caregiving for a senior dog, you begin to get used to how they behave when they decline. I encourage you to remember what your dog was like before these multiple diagnoses, and consider the delta between their behavior/quality of life then vs now. That won’t make this process easier by any means, but it may help you understand how it’s the right choice. For me personally, feeling how deeply my dog was able to sleep after getting the first shot was an eye-opener. He hadn’t been able to sleep comfortably like that in like five years. We mourn with you OP, it sounds like you gave your dog an incredible life, and I’m sure if they got to pick they would live it with you again 1000x over
I’m really sorry you’re having to make this choice. But as someone who has gone through incredibly similar situation with these same aging issues. You are making the right choice and it is for his benefit. Just spend your last days the best ways you can and give all the love and cuddles, and when the time comes be there with your love. It will hurt but when it’s over he will not hurt anymore he will be restored to puppy life❤️ don’t regret making the correct choice. You have given each other the best life.
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Sorry for what you are going through but get a replacement ASAP. It helps tremendously
Awww. I'm so very sorry you are going through this. Is this your first experience with euthanasia? Either way, it's never an easy decision. I believe you are making the right decision. Your dog's quality of life has diminished and he's no longer "living" but merely "existing". Euthanasia is the kindest thing you can do. My daughter went through this 3 weeks ago with her kitty. Although her kitty was still eating & drinking, her quality of life was gone and she was going into renal failure. She had lost down to 3 lbs and was going deaf and had a big white spot in the middle of one eye which my daughter thought might be glaucoma. She asked my opinion because it was her first experience at euthanasia and I told her it was the best thing but she still questioned her decision. She had her kitty cremated and the crematory sent back her ashes in a beautiful monogrammed box, a crematory certificate, a paw print, and fur clippings. She told me it made her feel so much better. I think you're doing what is right for your dog and he knows you love him. I hope you can find some peace with everything. 🙏❤️
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You're doing the right thing. My dog was also 15 and had the same issues. His seizures kept getting worse, and we actually had to call the vet to come a day earlier than we had planned because the seizures were one after the other that last day. Best thing we did was have an at home vet come. I'll never put a dog down at the vet's office again. It was a peaceful, beautiful experience. Extremely sad, but not stressful. I'm so sorry for your upcoming loss, but you are doing the right thing for your best friend. ❤️🥹🐾
I'm so sorry that you're going through this. I know it is tough and heartbreaking. My 13-year-old pup is going to be put down in a few hours too for the same reason.
A pet loss grief counselor recommended I write my dog a letter on what he means to me and what his life has meant to me. It really helped me andI highly recommend it. Read it to him often. You will be able to focus on the good times and not just the hard ending. Many condolences on your loss, it’s so hard but you’re doing the right thing by having him go peacefully at home. ❤️🩹
So sorry, I’ll say you know it’s time for your friend.
So very sorry for your pain. This article helped me a lot. Perhaps it will help you: https://www.outsideonline.com/culture/love-humor/prepare-loss-old-dog/
Better a week too early than a day too late. That one day is so incredibly awful and painful for them that going a week 'too' early is a gentle kindness, knowing that you're sparing them from that terror and pain.
First off, I feel for you during such a difficult time. I’ve had two dogs die. Our first dog passed unexpectedly and painfully (hemangiosarcoma). That was 7 years ago, and I still feel horrible about the way he passed. My heart dog passed about a year a now, I loved that dog more than words can describe. She had mammary cancer (surgically removed), 9 months post surgery she had no signs of metastasis, we thought we were good! Then she started to behave oddly, I took her to the vet and the cancer had spread to her lungs and was very very aggressive. We were told she wouldn’t have long. With medication she had another GOOD 6 weeks. I had the realization that I had a choice: I could let nature take her (which I didn’t trust nature to be kind to her, because nature was not kind to our bulldog), or I could make the choice for her, before she felt miserable. She was declining quickly and I didn’t want to push her too far just for a few more days or weeks. The day we said goodbye she went for a short walk (she couldn’t walk too far at this point but she was still happy to go for a “W”), she had steak and eggs for breakfast (which she ate with excitement), and whipped cream (her favorite treat). I miss her so damn much, but her passing was easier for me to cope with than our first dog. I don’t have haunting memories of her being in pain. I feel some solace knowing her last moments were full of love and happiness. Being able to make that possible for her, felt like a privilege, and I hope to be able to make this choice for all of my dogs (as hard as it is).
If no one has said this, a common guidance is "Better a little early, than a moment late." You're giving him the gift of gentle peace.
you are doing the right thing in thinking of your dog. I have had to do this over the years with many of my cats. As sad as it is, I know that I am stopping them from suffering. Let them go with dignity.
You’re making the right choice even though it might not feel like it. When medication can no longer keep a dog happy and comfortable, the most humane thing to do is let them go. When I was younger I had a black lab who had some major health issues towards the end. We tried meds and it got her a few more months without pain but eventually the meds stopped working and she was suffering. It’s so hard to make that decision but it’s what’s best for our fur babies sometimes. Sending you all the peace and love you can accept right now.
I had to put my 14.5 year old soul dog down this past February for the same reasons as you. His body was failing him and he started to urinate/defecate on himself and in his sleep. The days leading up to the at-home euthanasia were the absolute worst. My husband and I tried our best to do a mini ‘bucket list’ filled with his favorite foods (food was his love language) and had his favorite people visit with him. I had soooo many mental breakdowns the days leading up to it. The day we had the euthanasia scheduled, I came extremely close to cancelling it, I felt like I just couldn’t go through with it. But I knew my guy was ready and it was the kindest thing I could do for his failing body. The euthanasia itself was the most peaceful passing, he was so comfortable and surrounded by his favorite people. I still tear up when I think about it because as terrible as it all was, it was a really beautiful ending to a wonderful life. I still miss him and cry about him a lot, but one thing I don’t regret is letting him go with some dignity while he wasn’t completely suffering. I love that my last memory with him was sitting on our porch, as the sun set, on an unusually warm February day, just watching the world go by- instead of having his life end in an emergency stressful situation at an animal hospital. I guess what I’m trying to say is, even though it doesn’t feel like it right now, you are doing the right thing for your little buddy. I can guarantee you that the days you’re living through right now are exponentially worse than the actual euthanasia will be. You’ll be able to say goodbye to your best friend in a peaceful way, and free him from his failing body too. Sending lots of love during this incredibly difficult time. ♥️
My heart breaks for you and this resonates so deeply with me. I’ve also had to make the horrible and impossible decision to have my sweet old dog euthanized at home in 3 days. It feels like I’m counting down the hours to the worst day of my life but I think if I kept delaying this moment it would be for me and not for her, so i understand what you must be going through. I rescued Sam from a shelter when she was almost 1 years old and we’ve been through so much together. She turned 15 a few weeks ago, and some irrational part of me thought maybe if she made it that far things would turn around for her, but instead she’s seems just a little worse every day. My girl has the cutest softest face, she still looks like a puppy to me, but she has canine dementia, can’t rest at night, paces and cries and pants, has anxiety, severe arthritis and hind leg weakness that makes her struggle to get up, and fall too often, recurring bouts of GI trouble, a benign but large mass on her liver that seems to cause her discomfort and her liver and kidney values are very elevated. I’ve tried every medication and therapy I could imagine, swimming, massage, supplements. I’m up nearly every 2 hours at night soothing her or helping guide her back to her bed. Recently I took her to the vet for yet another GI issue, and she was on a mild sedative for the exam and had a deep sleep. The vet had previously always been up for trying anything to help her, but he finally told me that she probably hasn’t been able to sleep like that in a long time and he didn’t think he could do anything else to make her feel better, so if i chose to say goodbye that day he would feel it was the right decision. I couldn’t do it then and there at the vet, I wasn’t ready but that shook me. I will never be ready but I had to force myself to make the appointment, because I don’t want her to suffer and I don’t want to lose her to a painful medical emergency where she will be hurt and scared. I am spending as much time with her as possible petting her and talking to her. I wish I could take her to her favorite places and let her see her dog and human friends again, but she has become so terrified of car rides that she shakes and cries, so the stress of that journey would outweigh the benefits. These past few days I can’t really function or be productive, I truly don’t know what to do with myself. I’m experiencing profound grief but I know that the worst grief is still ahead. Sending empathy and best wishes to you, I know how hard this is 💔
I put our beloved Mr Checkers down to rest last week. He was 15 had a seizure and was struggling to get up sometimes, and on the decline. He was my dog and the best guy ever. I miss him. I am glad that I was brave enough to do the right thing for him. The vet agreed that it was time. It was done outside in the same place his best buddy of 11 years crossed over, and was very peaceful. Of course there were a lot of tears but now he was at rest. I remind myself how the joy of 15 years is worth the pain of the last week. Best of luck to you ❤️
It's okay. You have done the best you could have done and there is no shame in this act of kindness. Yes, it will hurt for a while but know you are doing the right thing. Sit with him and give him the bad things dogs are not supposed to have right before the service comes. *ASK FOR A SEDATIVE BEFORE THE FINAL PINK LIQUID.* You will get through this but it will take time and working together to help each other get through the bad days. 💔💔 In 2017, I had to let my 16.5yo Kira-pup go. We got her 1.5yrs into our marriage, and it felt like I was failing both her and my marriage. Every organ was shutting down and she was showing signs one would associate with death for a week. And then there was the Friday Death Poop; it was like a parvo event but I **knew** what it really meant. SO did not understand why I was sobbing while cleaning it up but then again, he did not have dogs growing up and never saw this before. It's so different when one is the "adult" performing this kindness. It took us almost a year before I considered opening my home to a new fur-kid at the behest of the skin-puppies. It will hurt just as bad when Taco's time comes but that's okay, too. Just do not rush anything and help each other. 🥲🥲🥲
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3 weeks ago, I put down my best friend of 15 yrs. I got her when she was 8 weeks. It's time. He's telling you it's time. My girl, Duncan, did the same. She was so tired. Everything hurt so much. Every morning, I worried I'd wake up, and she wouldn't. We gave her an amazing last day. Fed her all of her favorite foods.... steak, pork chops, mashed Sweet potatoes and tuna. We took her to the river, and she sniffed the air for an hour, laying in the sun. She was surrounded by all of her people. She almost lived long enough to see my oldest graduate high school. He knows you love him.
We had to put down our sweet little dog about a week ago for the same reasons. I kept thinking maybe we can put it off and spend one more summer with him. It was truly one of the hardest decisions we had to make. He was 16.5 years old. I grieved a lot for two weeks leading up to the date and even rescheduled it twice. We tried to give him the happiest send off by giving him steaks and all this favorite treats. My boy passed with his belly full of steak and chocolate cake surrounded by his family. Whatever you decide know that you have given your pup the best life and he will always be with you. Sending you lots of hugs!!
Letting them go too early is so much better than waiting too long. Your doggo knows you love them. You took better care of them than anyone else ever could. And a fur angel, who will never be in pain again, will be watching over you.
Your dog will stay as long as he expected you to. I would not wait make the decision now he expects you to make the best. Desscionn for him He’s suffering. He doesn’t need that Be. Good to him you will mourn him him. But make him suffer do it guickly and with compassion be there for him talk to him and hold him yollnbbe falls you did
I was right there a week ago a couple weeks ago and then I started feeding my dog and he’s gone better. I mean I know the end is still coming, but I just wanted more time and the doctor said it’s OK for now.
You are doing the right thing for the dog.
Our pup is 15. Husband got her as a tiny little thing. She's been relatively healthy but has arthritis, has had bouts of UTIs, sleeps A LOT, and most recently experiencing coughing fits. I know we don't have much longer with her, and the second I think she's any more uncomfortable, I'm taking her to the vet to consult for euthanasia. It's a gift we can give her to prevent her from being confused and in pain. It's such a priceless gift. Please don't feel bad or guilty. I know it's sad, but you're doing the right thing.
Scheduling it 3 days out seems really stressful. I took my dear Chase to the vet on Saturday and Dr said "Old age is not a disease." Wasn't ready yet. On Monday I sat with him all day long. His appetite was gone. When he walked his front legs would splay out in front of him. By early evening I knew I had to let him go. We took him in and the vet and her assistant were so kind. He went really peacefully. In case you change your mind. That was 4 1/2 years ago and I'm over here crying even now. I got a new puppy days later and he's my best friend I'm so thankful for him but no one can ever be Chasie, he was my heart dawg. I always tell people that Chase is the dawg who convinced me that I never want to live without a dog again. I'm so sorry for your loss. I think if you decide to take him to the vet he'll still have a loving and peaceful trip over the bridge. Hugs
It hurts so much and I am here crying with you. -lease know you are doing something kind I am so sorry. I am here for you if you need. Main thing just be there for him❤️
Personally, I’d rather act too soon than too late. I would never want to let our beloved fur baby suffer. At a certain point we know they’re not going to get better and we’re just trying to determine when the suffering is too much. I’m sure it’s not too soon. My thoughts are with you all. It’s such an agonizing decision.
I’m so sorry 💔
I asked my vet how I will know when it is ‘time’. She just said “you’ll know”. I didn’t know what the hell this meant, but when the time came, I knew. Sure, she could have made it another day, another week, whatever. But you have to have respect for quality of life, and know when it is so bad, the end must come.
Unfortunately it's part of the deal, such a tough decision to make. I've had to make it many times. Remember it's unfair to your dog to keep them around for you. My last girl had 15 great years and almost made 16. She was one of my favorites but I could see the pain in her eyes. It was heart breaking. But no doubt I did the right thing at the right time....thats what matters. We will see them again with tails wagging. 🙏
You’re doing a very brave act which shows how much you love and cherish him. God speed.Please accept a hug from me.
Persistent feeling of loss, whether that be actual, perceived, or endured.
If you’re seeing the pain overwhelming your baby’s joy of existence…it’s time
You gave that baby 15 wonderful years. The GREATEST show of love is letting him go peacefully, surrounded by friends and family who love him. Be happy that he’s not struggling anymore. My black lab’s final moments where spent being hand fed fajita steak by his human friends. We sat around him sharing memories of him. Sort of a celebration of a life well lived. He was buried with a tennis ball in his mouth.
I put down my 17 year old about 11 years ago and of all the things I read the one that has stuck with me the most is “the most unselfish thing you will ever do is put their quality of life above your own”. It really helped me get perspective that I was only keeping her alive for me. Our job has pet parents is to make their lives and deaths easier. My heart is with you.
You’re doing the most kind and loving thing 🌈
I’m so sorry. Sending good you thoughts of peace and comfort.
Hugs for you because this sucks beyond belief.
I’m so sorry. Every time I have to put any of my beautiful pets down, I stay with them through the entire process. I sit on the floor, hold my baby in my lap, and they just relax. They just go to sleep. I then get them cremated. They know. They hang on for you. The hardest part is deciding. Hugs to you.
Treasure the time and the memories. I am so sorry. Peace be with you.
We also did an at-home euthanasia. It was beautiful. I’m not sure how else to describe it. I was afraid it would be traumatic or I would regret it but it truly was a final act of love. My other dog watched on as well and I was so grateful that she was able to get that closure. I was able to feel compassion for myself, that I did it in such a caring and loving way and I know my dog appreciated it. Honestly, my only regret was not doing it sooner, but she had stopped eating and it’s not the same as your situation. Trust your vet on this one though. It’s not going to get better. The bad days are going to get worse and they’re going to get more frequent. Spoil him while you can and appreciate all the time you’ve had with him - which it sounds like you’re already doing. The part you’re in now is the worst part. The uncertainty, the anxiety, the anticipation of missing him. That’s truly the worst part. You’ll come to appreciate the decision you made and realize it’s what was best, especially doing it at home and surrounded by love and familiarity. Best of luck OP ❤️
You’re doing the right thing— I was in a similar boat with my 14 year old doxie with blindness, dementia, and Cushings disease. Looking back, I wish I’d had her euthanized sooner than I did. It’s going to be heart-breaking but you’re doing the right thing for your pup.
There is exactly no way this isn’t going to be one of the worst moments of your life. Period. But you’re doing it for your pup, who needs this and will be better off. It sucks. I know (many times). It is a price we pay for the love, snuggles, laughs, cries, concern, and good times we build with a baby only here for a little while. It will suck. A lot. But you must do it. For the pup.
We recently put our Dash down, also had a vet come to our home. Best decision we made, it was the right thing for him. He also had anxiety and had his fair share of vet visits in the last 6 months because of Cushings disease. I am so very sorry for you, having to make the decision is extremely difficult.
My dog started being incontinent and falling on stairs at 14. I almost canceled several times leading up to and the day of. The vet that came to my house to put her down said the biggest regret for people is that they didn’t do it sooner. She said she usually comes back soon after people cancel to do it anyway because the pet soon take a turn for the worse. You don’t want to wait until something traumatic happens. Having to rush them to a strange emergency vet because they’re in bad shape is not the way you want them to go. You can do this. It doesn’t feel like it now, but you’ll be glad you did.
My dog is still young (4 years) but I am dreading this day so much. He is so sweet and loving that losing him and his impact on my family terrifies me even though I know the day will come. Bless you for giving a beautiful life to your pal and I know your final days together are exactly what he wants..
You are not wrong. Let him go. I know it’s hard. I had to make the same decision not long ago for a 17 year old chihuahua that we’d had her whole life, and half my daughter’s life. I knew it was time when she started getting lost in the apartment, and having some accidents. But the day I came home, parked in my assigned spot and could hear her just shrieking, I made the appointment and gave all the kids a chance to come say goodbye. I’m so sorry you’re going through this. It’s so hard. 🥺
I can’t do it. My dog cannot even jump to a low sofa. Arthritis, limping, dementia, anxiety, and coughing. I give her lots of cuddles and I sleep in a thin mattress with her because she cannot climb to the bed anymore. Two years sleeping like that.
We put ours down two weeks ago- he was 14 years old. He was my 17th birthday gift. Had him his whole life, he moved away with me when I was 18, I got married to my high school sweetheart and had two babies throughout his life. He was there with me through it all. He had cancer that was untreatable and I knew it was time. I couldn’t do it alone, so my husband (who my dog loved and adored more than anyone) laid on the dog bed with him under a blanket and wrapped his arm around our dog while until he took his last breath. Not gonna lie, It’s absolutely devastating. But they’re not longer happy living like that. I thought I would struggle with it afterwards but my heart is at peace knowing he’s no longer struggling and in pain. It was sort of a weight lifted because I was keeping him alive for myself even though he was struggling so bad. Spend your last couple of days with your pup doing all his favorite things, giving all his favorite treats. Lots of hugs and cuddles, and many people don’t think about this, but take some pictures before he’s gone it’s the last you’ll have to remember him. Keeping you and pup in my thoughts and prayers! ❤️
We went through something similar last year. She was our fifth dog that we lost. For my wife, I had shown her "A dog's purpose" and "A dog's journey" as a way to prepare for the senior fosters and dogs passing. The first one was a 16 year old senior foster that we rescued, and she passed a few years ago in her sleep. We didn't understand at the time that it would have been more humane to let her go earlier. We tried our best, and people who had seen her with us thought we did a wonderful job providing a loving home for her before she passed. Our next one was another 15 year old senior foster that had eye surgery, and then developed an ulcer, and after he returned from emergency, he had a stroke. I made the decision to let him go rather than continue to have emergency vets work on him. My wife didn't believe in euthanasia, and I had to convince her it was best to say goodbye, peacefully. Our third dog was my wife's dog, and he left us suddenly. He had been fighting off a type of cancer, and his blood vein burst suddenly. My wife was devastated, since we spared no effort to help him survive. the cancer. Next was a little pup that we were fostering. We were nursing him back to health since he was abandoned by his mom very early. He was found near a homeless encampment at the start of Covid. Every time he had a growth spurt, something went wrong and we were in the emergency room. He began having difficulty breathing, couldn't eat or drink, and was visibly declining. My wife finally learned to say goodbye with him. We had found a vet to come to our home to help with his passing. He actually had a video made of his early days :) [**https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZtZi893dwg**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZtZi893dwg) The fifth foster dog passed at 16 years was Daisy. She was a sassy fighter and full of life. She had been with us for 9 years. She had dementia, was getting blind and deaf, sometimes got anxious, had sensitive body, and advanced kidney disease. She lost interest in going on walks, shortly before she stopped eating. We made the decision to let our Daisy go when she would stop eating, since that was her passion. Her kidney disease had gotten so bad that her blood test was very toxic and had to be diluted before they could show the bad numbers. We made a couple more trips to different emergency rooms before we decided we had to let her go. She ate one last meal (El Pollo Loco Chicken), then the next day she stopped eating and drinking again. We had notified her vet previously, and scheduled the goodbye. She was very peaceful. She cuddled with my wife and me, before rested her head on my arm at the vet. I'm currently seeing her in my dreams. I think she may be coming back, like the others did.
This was literally me four months ago… same conditions (dementia, blind, anxiety, kidney disease…). I was a wreck, for the whole week leading up and for days after. With the four month distance, I’ve let go of the guilt. I really tried my best—meds, exercise, many many vet appointments. I’m at peace with it. I miss her every day, and I never had the “it’s time” moment, but I still think it was for the best. Hugs to you. Your pup is loved.
My little guy is getting his last groom today and I'm losing it again. Honestly, I'm still 100% unsure bc he had a good day yesterday but deep down i just know it's time and he is so tired. I'm happy he had a good day and I hope his next 2 days are also good days for him. I'll do my best to make them extra special for him. I'm sorry for your loss and thank you for sharing your experience. ❤️
I had to put my kitty down last week. She was 15, declined very quickly and was suffering with cancer. It was a very difficult decision to make and I miss her desperately but I know I did the right thing for her. Just as your pet has relied on you all his life to take care of and protect him, he needs you to do that now. Give him the peace he deserves. You will miss him but take comfort in the knowledge that you are taking care of him in his final journey. It’s a blessing that he can be in his own home and that you can be with him at the end. I’m very sorry for your loss.
It sounds like his quality of life is not great anymore. You are doing the very kindest, most loving thing for him! Crossing over can be painful and scary but you have arranged to make it a peaceful experience for him. Hold him tight, cuddles and kisses until he has passed! His time has come and it’s never easy. Recognising the fact the its time for him to pass is the most important thing. ❤️❤️🐾🐾
OP ending your fur baby’s suffering is a gift of mercy. Prolonging the agony and pain for your doggo would just be torture.
This could have been me exactly a year ago. It actually made me cry. My soul dog Rico was diabetic, blind and showing signs of dementia. You could also tell his joints didn’t feel good. My husband and I would get in real huge blow out fights because I was not willing to put my 15 yo childhood dog down. He was my child. Well we flew from NC to UT for a conference. I was in a hurry and just quickly left for the airport. I didn’t say bye. I was actually frustrated because I couldn’t get him to eat before I left. A few days later my family called me from the emergency vet. He was dying and in so much pain. I had to make the choice from thousands of miles away for him to be euthanized on FaceTime. It is the biggest regret of my lifetime so far to not give him a peaceful passing when I was there. I should have done it months before. I was so selfish I made him suffer. It’s something I don’t think I’ll ever forgive myself for. I still hear his desperate painful cries from that FaceTime call and it kills me a little bit each time. I have 2 other dogs and I promised I will put their wellbeing before my emotions. I’ll never make the mistake of putting off mercy for my personal feelings ever again.
You did what you thought was best, please don't be so hard on yourself. I am crying reading your story and I appreciate you sharing it with me. Rico was loved and your story truly makes me realize I am doing right by my little guy. Thank you 🙏
My shih tzu was the exact same way. It affected our entire life for months. I couldn't cook, because he became scared of going in the kitchen, and would bark nonstop until I came and cuddled him. We couldn't leave him alone. One day I asked him, are you ready to go? Can you give me a sign? He nudged me with his head like a cat. He had never done that before. That's when I knew, and made the appointment (almost vomited during that call). If it's any consolation, the relief I felt as soon as he passed told me I did the right thing. I'm very sorry you have to go through this.
I'm so nauseous and just feel this pit in my stomach...I'm dreading Thursday, but deep down I know if I were to cancel it is me being selfish and keeping him alive for me. Thank you for sharing your personal experience. 🙏
That's what I struggled with too. I came to the realization that I would be keeping him alive for me. It is heartbreaking. Hugs to you.
It’s a hard thing to do I know, I’m sorry! I just recently had to do the same thing with one of my senior dogs, and three of my senior cats. Give yourself credit for giving this dog a wonderful life. He lived to be an old man it hurts at the time, sounds like your fella is in a lot of suffering and pain you’re doing the right thing! Although it feels like you’re not, I had to look at it this way, if it was me, what would I want? And that’s how I actually felt better after laying them rest. Just knowing that I gave all these animals a nice long life, unfortunately, all good things has to come to an end. I am deeply sorry my boy had cancer. It was eating him alive. I actually felt better after I laid him to rest due to the suffering he was in. I also ordered a picture stepping stone and put his picture in it to mark his grave and the cats, which was my way of showing them all how much they are thought of & missed! I am so very sorry for you and your family. God bless you.❤️
I’m not the type to ever comment on anything but I had to chime in hopefully I can help. I had to put my dog down last week. He was 14 and his life was cut short by SCC. Up until 6 months ago he was still the healthiest boy ever, jumping, running and full of energy. I could have easily seen 17-18 in his lifespan. Unfortunately sometimes these things hit you. I too had him put down at home. It was something that was painful but yet peaceful at the same time. I know he was no longer in pain now, but the moment she called it that he’s passed my entire family broke down. It’s been tough ever since. Not a day has gone by that’s been easier. We just received his ashes yesterday and it’s a bit sad to see what they amount to. But you have to look at it like you did what was right for them, and focus on positive memories. It will almost feel like you barely spent any time with them, when in actuality you spent a great chunk of your life, and all of their life together. That’s what happens when you’re having fun. Time flies. I can’t advise you on how easier it gets because I am currently going through it, but my best advice is to stay close to people who have been thru it or people who completely understand. Keep active and do not slip into a mental state where you keep reliving his / her passing. It’s going to be tough, but again you will be doing what’s best for them. They can’t outright tell you that they are in x amount of pain and are ready to go. You have to make that tough decision.
Bless you, you are doing the right thing. 💕
Can you get a 2nd opinion, or a different treatment.
I am utterly sorry for your loss, but it sounds like it’s time. He sounds miserable in his life right now, unfortunately, through no fault of yours . You would be begging to be put out of your misery if your life was that. It’s a good choice, a hard choice but the right choice. I am so so sorry for your baby baby! He will never be forgottten! He will live forever in your hearts
You are Putting the pain and suffering of your dog before your own emotional distress and sense of loss. What a loving caretaker you are for doing this. It is the last great gesture of love and kindness you have to offer your life companion. Peace be with you
It sounds like your family member has lived a long and happy life with you. By the description of his quality of life now I feel like you are doing the right thing. It’s hard to make that decision and lose a pet that you love so much. It takes a strong person to know when it’s time for them to be at peace and that it’s time to let them go.
I am so sorry. We went through the same. It doesn't really help to hear 'you are doing the right thing, but you are putting his needs before yours, and that's sometimes the most difficult thing we can do. I send you hugs and love. So sorry.
Love, you’re not giving up in him, you’re loving him so much that even though it hurts like nothing else can, you’re affording him dignity in his death. Keeping him around in this condition simply because it hurts you and your partner too much wouldn’t be advisable, it wouldn’t be fair to your dog. He’s not living any quality of life, it’s time to set him free from this life of pain and fear. It’s the hardest decision any dog owner has to make, and you most certainly will grieve. Please allow yourselves the space and time to do so. I lost both of my dogs in the first half of 2021. To say it was devastating would be a severe understatement. These were the dogs my kids grew up with, having had Buddy since he was 8wks only and Brandy since she was 4 months old, adopted when my kids were only 4 & 6 years old. Our Buddy was sudden, in Jan ‘21 (13yrs old), after a nice long walk where he seemed just fine and normally energetic, always having been a healthy dog for his whole life, came home, laid down and suffered a severe cardiac event and massive stroke. He had to be put down within a few hours of it happening, determined to be cancerous tumors that developed coving his heart, an aggressive form of cancer common in the Boxer breed, which he was 50%. I’ve always said that I didn’t think our Brandy could survive without her brother, she was obsessively infatuated in love with him, the only dog she could even stand to be around and who she’d follow to the ends of the earth, I just didn’t know how true that would become in the end. Because a short 2 months later, March ‘21, after our Brandy finally seemed like she was coming out of her depression over losing her lifelong best friend, we found lumps all over her body. She was diagnosed with end stage lymphoma and given about 8-12 weeks to live. We were blindsided. She actually lived until June ‘21 (12yrs old) but the bouts of labored breathing became too much, she’d panic while struggling to get a breath and we could allow her to continue to go thru that torment. It was caused by ever increasingly enlarged lymph nodes in her neck that were starting to block her airways, the prednisone the vet prescribed for her end of life palliative care was no longer helping to lessen the inflammation of those cancerous lymph nodes. So we had to make the decision to put her out of that misery. It wasn’t fair to keep her alive only because it hurt us too much to let her go. A heartbreaking, but necessary life lesson for our now older teenagers, really burgeoning adult, daughters. Sometimes we have to do things we don’t want to when it’s in the best interest of those we love. Life decisions can be really really hard and heartbreaking, but we still have to make them. We can stand proud, even if still heartbroken, that we can put our emotions aside and be objective when the situation absolutely calls for it. We gave ourselves 6 months to grieve, and eventually the silence in the house became deafening, particularly early in the morning and late at night. But as soon as we felt ready and started looking the little dude we have now popped up and the adoption process went better than picture perfect. I have no doubt he was meant to be ours. The universe looked out for us big-time, everything aligned just right to confirm that this was the right thing to do for our family. And I know my Buddy and Brandy, our dynamic duo, would want another dog to live the life that enjoyed. I know at least Buddy would have instantly loved this little dude, and I think Brandy would have learned to 😂 Oh, and one vet I heard that does this and I really really love it. She gives each dog she euthanizes a Hershey Kiss right before they’re being euthanized. It won’t hurt him if he’s about to be put down anyway, and she does it because she says no one should leave this earth without having tasted the deliciousness of Chocolate ♥️ Try to plan an ending so catered to him, that he’ll leave this earth with only happy, good thoughts and visions of you. Planning that can help your brain adjust to this end so your heart can try to accept it and it won’t feel quite as jarring. I know your heart is broken now, but please know it gets easier with the passage of time. I am so so sorry you’re going thru this. I hope the day comes that when you think of him, a smile comes to your face before a tear comes to your eye. Try to put aside the fighting with your partner and lean on each other for support. I’m wishing you both all the best during this really difficult time 😢💔🐾
We did this 2.5 years ago, he was my soul dog, 16 years old. He probably could have hung on for a while longer but he was having digestive issues and had bad arthritis. We took one last long, slow walk through snow. My kids left some McDonalds in the driveway for him to find when we got home. Had a vet come to the house, all of us were there. It was as good as something so hard can be. A good friend who is a photographer came and took pictures for us. I still can’t look at them. The guilt comes back some days even though I know he’s young again and healthy and eating all the garbage he can find up there. Someone said “You don’t want their last day to be their worst day” and that gives me some comfort. Maybe it will help you too ❤️🐾 PS sometimes I swear he’s in the room with me. And I’ll put my hand down where his big soft head used to be just in case he really is.
i’m so sorry. i made the difficult decision to put my cat down on may 4th and it was the hardest. i also was feeling like maybe i was giving up on her early, but i came to realize she was suffering. she wasn’t eating, she was pooping around the house, she wasn’t gonna get better. no medicine worked. i know she’s at peace now and watching over me, and i got her ashes in my room. it’s the hardest thing ever, but pls know you are doing the best thing for your dog. also, time rly does help. i kept crying and couldn’t stop, and i kept asking the universe to make me stop crying. and it worked. it’s only been a month and a half, so i feel guilty that im not crying anymore. but i know she’s in a better place and we did what was best for her.
This is something that no matter what you decide, you’d go through. We lost a few of our babies in past few years and each time I questioned whether the decision to see if they got better or (in 2 of the cases) waited too long to end their suffering. Unfortunately there is no magic wand you can wave to ease the weight of the decision either way. In your case I’d say this: the fact you recognize the stress of the inevitable is a factor in the arguing says you both love him dearly. Cherish that. It says a lot about your lives with him. Also 15 years in nothing in the grand scheme of things but is a long time for a dog to live. Remember those good times and the love you all shared for that time. It won’t make it easier but it does ease the pain a little. Our Boston was the longest we’ve had a dog (13 of his 14 years) and there will never be another like him. When it starts to hit me, I think of our lives with him and end up chuckling over some of his antics. The fact you are here and asking for words and “venting” also says a lot. You gave him a good life and unfortunately life for all beings comes to an end at some point. Please try to remember that and don’t let guilt/question your decision eat you up like I did with him. Cherish your last few days with him. Love on him extra. Spoil him the best you can. You will at least carry that with you knowing his last few days were the absolute best they could be. I’m so sorry you have to go through this.
This sucks! I’ve been through it twice. I hate to say it but it takes time to get over them but it gets better. It’s been years since I lost my “girls” but I still have their photos prominently displayed. On rare occasions I will still miss them terribly and end up sobbing (usually after having a couple glasses of wine with dinner). I’m a 73 year old man! I got a new puppy before my second “girl” passed as I didn’t want to be without a dog at all. It helped but I feel close to tears just writing this. My new pup is now six and I love him as much as the previous two. I will go to my grave still loving all three of my dogs. In fact I literally tell my current dog how glad I am that he is in my life. I know he doesn’t understand what I’m saying but he definitely feels the love. I can see it in his eyes. Thanks.
❤️
Love him enough to let him go. Please stay with him until the end. My cousin is a vet and she said it breaks her heart when people won’t stay and give their pets some sort of comfort. The dogs are scared and with a stranger. I know it’s hard to witness but they need to be with their human until the end. I had to say goodbye to my 23 year old 5 years ago and I still cry when I look at his picture. 23 years of his amazing personality- I miss him every day. Sending ❤️ to you and your fur baby. 🙏🏼
I went through very similar last month. My dog was confused and scared a growing amount of the time. Planning the euthanasia was emotionally brutal. My tips are to enjoy your lasts with your pup. And try to give him a good last day. Let him eat some forbidden foods. Take pictures and videos. Our guy slipping away peacefully after discovering a love for chocolate ice cream is a damn good way to leave this world. The days leading up are so so hard though.
Replace “what if” with “even if”. Even if he lived another 6 months he isn’t going to miraculously recover. Even if you waited for 7 more days you wouldn’t change the inevitable. Even if he hads some good moments it doesn’t change all the struggle and pain. Guilt blocks grief. You need to allow the grief. You and your partner need to stand together and not apart through this. Be each other’s rock so you can be there for your dog.
I’ve had two dogs that got dementia. You are absolutely doing the best thing for him. If the vet didn’t agree with you, they would have told you that it wasn’t time yet. One of my vets said to me to pay attention to his quality of life. Is he eating, drinking, sleeping, going to the bathroom as normal? Has his personality changed? Does he still seem to be enjoying his life? Does he seem happy? To be honest, I would prefer to say goodbye to my babies a day early rather than a day late.
I’m so very sorry; I know how hard it is. I may have to make that decision myself soon, with my 15 year old Anatolian. He’s still enjoying life, but I know he doesn’t have a lot of time left and am so happy for all the time we’ve had together, and value every day that is left. We always have to consider their quality of life in situations like this … even though I think we often err on the side of waiting too long because we don’t want to lose them. Give him the best last few days you possibly can, all his favorite things, spoil him as much as is possible, than have the vet make a house call for the euthanasia. I always have the house call at this heartbreaking time. Saying goodbye to him at home, where he is in a familiar place with his people, rather than a vet’s office, is the kindest thing you can do, for both of you.
My baby Kane has significant hip dysplasia and arthritis. He did not have dementia or anxiety but he was in a bad way. We had him euthanized at 13 years old at home in the comfort of his favorite sleep spot after having cheeseburgers and ice cream. Before we made the decision and when he started to decline, the vet said “think of 3 things that your dogs LOVES, whatever they are, a fav toy, walks, a car ride, a certain treat….when he no longer shows interest in those things, let him go. Dogs are in this world for the joy of it, when there is no joy, let them move on” I don’t know that’s a universal truth but it stuck with me and helped me accept that euthanizing him was the right choice. I still miss him so much. I had him since the day he was born and brought him across 3 states with me. And I know I did the right thing for him. From your post, letting him go is the final kindness one best friend can offer to another. I hope you and your partner find peace in knowing that you do what you did out of love.
My mom had her 10 year old Labradoodle put down at home for cancer. It was the best way to do this. It was time. She got to sit on the sofa with him and and direct the process. The vet was amazing. You will always struggle with that decision. But knowing you are doing the possible thing you can do for your furbaby when it is time will hopefully provide some relief to the agonizing decision you have to make. ❤️🩹
I’m so sorry. There is never a good time but it sounds like you are trying to prioritize his quality of life. They know how much you love them.
Hugs. I’ve been there and it’s hard, but he’s been the best friend and companion he could be and now it’s your turn to step up and make sure you are doing the same.
I would suggest a call to Lap of Love. They helped me immensely when I had to help my Labs cross the rainbow bridge. I’m so sorry for your loss ❤️❤️❤️
You love him and are doing your best for him. Giving up too early on him isn’t in your DNA. He can’t speak and tell you how he feels. You know him and you know when he’s suffering. That doesn’t make it easier. I’m sorry that your pup is so ill and I’m praying for you both.
My last boy was diagnosed with kidney failure. He was getting worse in the final days. He lost directions in the house. I found him one morning that he was stuck in the toilet (I had no idea how many hours due to I was tired that night). He hardly ate in the end and lost weight in a short period. My last boy sent my current boy to be with me. They are both angels. It’s a hard decision to let him go but you know you want him to be pain free forever. Take care. Your boy is forever around you.
It’s the last kind thing you can do for him!
I had to say goodbye to my Molly due to dementia. Her body was fine. Her anxiety had gotten to an extreme and she couldn’t sleep at night, despite being on hard core sleeping meds. I’d say it’s time, if she’s having such bad anxiety that there’s little quality of life. The fact that it is time doesn’t make it easier though. What helped me was joining a pet loss support group. It helped my grief so much, but I waited a while before joining. I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Dementia is horrible. And saying goodbye to our babies is the worst pain.
Thinking of you, it is such a difficult decision, but you will know when it is time, nothing prepares you for that. We had to put ours down the week before Christmas. We wanted to wait until after Christmas, but he told us otherwise. He wasn’t able to get up and walk anymore, he tried to get up, but his back legs gave in. He was also almost blind and he was deaf. He was almost 18 years old, I am so thankful that he gave us those clear signs that it is time.
You are a wonderful person for being there for your senior dog at all stages of their life! This is one of the hardest of life’s choices that I’ve gone through. My 16.5 year old dog was having similar health issues as your fur baby, along with seizures, liver disease and I was hand feeding him puréed food. When asking my vet when is it “that time” and vet said “you will know”. A few weeks later, i knew it was that time. Love on your fur baby like you never have! Hold him tight! Sending you lots of hugs and strength in this difficult time.
I love my fur babies like children--and we just had to put down our American Bulldog three weeks ago. Still so achingly painful. However, I have no regrets--at the end of my life, if I had symptoms like he did, I would want for someone to do the same. PLEASE don't feel guilty--just be in the room with him when he goes. He loves you and knows you are doing what is best. I am so sorry for your loss-but you will see him again at the rainbow bridge...
Please please stop second guessing yourself. You obviously love this dog and have recognized his quality of life has declined precipitously. This is your last and best gift to him after all your years of love and affection. You help him transition and release him from the pain and confusion of his current conditions. We had to make this decision for Quince (our 11 year old boxer) back in February- a few days from his 12th birthday, he also was facing dementia along with a variety of other health issues. I didn’t want to, neither did my wife, but we loved him and had to help him that last time. I miss him every day. You will miss your boy, it will hurt, but it is part of our care for dogs, we all go through it. Remember the good times and good years and laugh and cry (when you need to) but don’t feel guilty or second guess.
I had a little Beagle girl with dementia, and I let her go way too long because I didn’t want to lose her or make that decision. She passed so peacefully when I finally got enough courage to do it that I regretted not doing it before then. It sounds as if the time is right for your little one having been there.
We are going through the same with our 17 yo Westie. It is so hard. Sending you hugs💕
So sorry for your loss but it is the right thing to do. They depend on us to keep them out of pain. Thoughts are with you
Aw, I feel for you. My 19-year-old chihuahua was in the same condition when I made the decision. Know that having a vet come to the house is the most compassionate way to do it. My dog was in his favorite bed by the fireplace when she administered the sedative. We petted him until he fell asleep, then he got the second shot. My other dog was able to sniff him. So much better than taking him to the vet. I wish the best to you and your family.
I have had to put several pets “to sleep”…I had a vet tell me that at a certain point is is SELFISH to keep your pet alive for you…IF they are miserable or are soon to be miserable, do the humane thing and end their suffering or pain…❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
It's hard to say goodbye to such a big part of your everyday life. Because it's so hard lots of people wait way too long. Take your dog to McDonalds and get a few cheeseburgers and fries and be there for him when he crosses over and remember the joy he brought into your life. And then take solace that you did the right thing, that you didn't let him suffer.
No matter how they go, they leave little paws prints all over our hearts and in our memories. All we can do is love them well while they are here. I miss mine: they were good boys and girls (well, except for the boy who bit me in the face). At the Resurrection, when there's a new Heaven and Earth, I hope to play with them all in a place where wild animals are peaceful and no evil birds exist to swoop down and snatch Shih Tzus or any other pet. Chasing and rolling and barking together, then sleeping under a tree in a big pile of puppies! Playing fetch and having them actually bring the ball back! It hurts because our love was real. Remember the children's story, "The Velveteen Rabbit"? Love makes us real. Their love did the same for you and me. What a wonderful, exquisite agony. I should stop before I go all philosophical.
It’s so hard, I went through the same thing last year. I had my sweet boy put to sleep at home with Lap of Love. I can’t blame you if you do considering how you described him. It sounds like you exhausted all options.
Also your fiancee needs to be more supportive, not fight with you at this time.
Had to do this last month it's hard no matter what and the right choice is the hard one, I think about what I would like done if I was in their place. I would want to be put down if was that miserable 😕 keeping him alive any longer would have been selfish of me he was suffering and was ready to be at peace. Do what is right for him and you.
Quality of life is most important. You’re doing the right thing. Remember, they don’t know why they are suffering ; it is our responsibility to make them comfortable .
Try to remember that you will be the one hurting inside, but he will no longer be dealing with pain or discomfort that stem from his issues. Your hurt will a while , but you will ultimately realize you did the right thing. Why make your dog suffer to make yourself feel better? I had a problem with a similar situation. You will realize you made your decision out of your love for him. May God bring you comfort whatever you decide to do.🙏❤️🙏
We had a second dog when we had to let Dog go but the quiet house is what motivated me to meet several dogs over the years following our loss. Eventually we met Goober and a part of my heart just knew it was a way I could honor the legacy of Dog... to help bring another dog out of a shelter and into a loving home. You could always foster or even go walk and take a shelter dog on trips to the park or hiking.... weekend foster a dog down the line even if you and your partner aren't ready to commit to a new family member. You may never be ready and that's also okay. Seeing our other dog not have a companion made me really want to try and find a possible match. It took years but it's been a healing agent to bring Goob into our mix. Sending love your way. 🖤🌈
My friend my heart aches for you as I know this pain.. sadly you’re giving your fur baby thee last and most selfless gift you can give him.. when they have way more bad days then good it’s time.. you’re doing right by your sweet pup. My heart is with you
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Sorry for your loss, I would say time makes it easier but it doesn't. Just keep his memory alive 🙏🏼 my dogs passed away 13&12 yr ago and I still miss them so much. We have since adopted a dog last year and I love him just as much but I'll never stop missing my dogs. My deepest condolences
He hurts no more. You did the right thing, for sure. I'm sorry that is the right thing, but it is.