NWR: Putting a Dog to sleep

Hi Girls,

I've had my dog Liza sine 1996- she was 2 when we got her. She's a great dog (german shepherd). However, she is starting to seem like she is really old. She has lots of accidents in the house, I think shes blind, and she may be going deaf. Her def has a little bit of arthritis but can still walk around.

My question is, how do you know when it is time to put a dog to sleep? When they cant move around anymore? FH says he think she is suffering, but I cant tell. THis is a hard decision to make.

That's terrible!

I'm so sorry that you're going through this. Maybe you should bring her to the vet and ask for their opinion... they might be able to tell you if some medications will help for certain things, or if these things are just a part of natural aging for your dog. I'm sure that you don't want her to be suffering, so you can probably ask the vet if the dog is suffering or in any pain.

You're in my prayers...

I know it is so hard right now, its one of the hardest things to go through, but if the animal is suffering it needs to be put down.
Have you taken her to the vet?

I would definitely take her to your vet, especially if they are familiar with her, because they will be able to tell if her condition has changed...and ask their opinion, and perhaps get a second one as well....if you know for sure she is suffering, than as tough as it is, it is best to put her down...my heart goes out to you, as i have two furry ones myself...and had to put a pet to sleep back in college...best of luck and many hugs..but they may have drugs to help her, so don't give up hope either! :

I second and third taking her to a vet....when my dog was ill, we just knew...he didn't want to walk around and he wouldn't move to one spot...it was on a SUnday I will never forget and we took him to an emergency vet and they said yes it's time

that was 7 years ago and I am crying about it. My heart and prayers go out to you!

I'm so sorry you're going through this- I've had to put pets to sleep and it's such a hard decision.

I'd definitely take her to the vet first and see what they think. They 'd know what would be best for your dog and hopefully have some medications for her to feel better. Good luck and let us know how she's doing.

thanks girls I am going to make an appt and see what the vet says. Thanks for all your kind words

Callan girl take her to the vet first.
They all tend to deterioate when aging, just as humans...but if they are not suffering,no need to put to sleep. Let a vet check her out...

I'm so sorry, I have two of my own. I got my sheba the same year from North Shore. Its extremely hard to put an animal down. Especially if you feel like they are part of your family.

I would take her for a check up first and find out for sure if she's suffering. Don't make a decision until your vet thinks it's the best thing to do.

Good Luck,

Callan sweetie! Take her for a vet visit. She may be just getting old, and there are TONS on medications and vitamins that can prolong her life. DON'T jump to conclusions that she's ill or anything. She may just need some TLC and a bit of help from the vet. Hugs for you!!!!

I would take her to the vet, see what the vet says

thinking of you

i'm soo sorry!! but if u think shes suffering u should definitely bring her to ur vet, and let him make that decision.

Callan I am so sorry that you are going thru this. I would take her to the vet and see what they say-I know its tough but if she is suffering its the best thing that you could do

I work at an animal hospital...and I see cases like this every day.... I have to say 10yrs is a long time for a German Shephard and you gave her the best years of her life...the vet is probably going to tell you its time...shes blind...urinating uncontrolable...and shes already up in age..I mean there may be some medications that may prolong her life...but in my opinion, it may be time...here is a poem that we give out when someone puts their pet to sleep...I absolutely love it..it makes me cry everytime

A Dog's Plea
Treat me kindly, my beloved friend for no heart in all this world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick for though I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me learn.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail, when your footsteps fall upon my waiting ear.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements.

I ask no greater glory than to have the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.

Keep my pan filled with water for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.

Feed me clean food that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, wiliing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.

And my friend, when I am old and no longer enjoy good health and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going, I am not having fun.

Please see that my trusting life is taken gently.

I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your hands.

thanks girls really

hi I am sorry you are going through this ~ this is such a tough decision to make and I had to do a similar thing about a year ago for my cat ~ and I did all this research etc... if your pets quality of life is not what it has been ~ if you feel they are in pain and are suffering... here is an article I found for you... good luck! and huggies & prayers go out to you as you are going through this decision proces...
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How to Know When It Is 'time' to Euthanize a Pet
From your Veterinary Medicine Guide

Questions to consider when evaluating quality of life. Some guidelines to help determine when it is time to say goodbye to a terminally ill or ill pet.
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Here's How:
Is my pet enjoying the activities that s/he used to? Eating, walking, playing, interested when you leave or come home?
Is my pet able to eat and drink? If my pet needs to be assisted, is my pet getting adequate fluid and nutrition?
Is my pet able to urinate and defecate ok?
Is my pet in pain often? Is pain adequately controlled with medication?
Is my pet part of the family, or alone most of the time?
Does my pet now become stressed or afraid when left alone?
Does my pet continue to recognize me?
Does my pet seem to enjoy interaction with other pets and family members?


Tips:

You know your pet best, and the decision regarding euthanasia (putting your pet 'to sleep') is always ultimately yours to make.
Discuss your feelings with family members, friends, and your vet.
Actively seek support groups or counseling if the sense of loss and grief is overwhelming.