| OP, talk to your vet. They are really good at helping you understand when it is time. |
| Dog hospice can help you make this decision. |
+1 our guy was exactly like your girl. we had area rugs scattered so he wouldn't slip on the tile or wood floor. he would walk from rug to rug, because he knew he would fall. lap of love was amazing. it's sad scheduling a date to put your loved one down, but the day of we spoiled him like crazy. all his favorite foods (pizza, bison, potato chips, etc). and took a ton of pictures. they (LoL) also do a paw print of your puppy and a lock of hair. it really was a good experience. the morning of, our little one painted his toe nails. it was very sweet. good luck, op. it is tragic, but she will be with you always. peace be with you. |
| OP I’m sorry you are going through this. Your dog is really suffering. They are very brave about pain but when they can’t stand up from pain you need to think about them first. 14 is a good long life for a dog. |
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We had a similar experience with our old Lab, who had crippling arthritis but otherwise all systems were healthy, so he wasn't going to make it easy for us by passing peacefully in his sleep.
It really is hard, but better a week too early than a day too late. Your dog doesn't fear death like people can, but can suffer, and it's our last, best gift to them to stop the suffering. Home euthanasia is an amazing way to ease them out of this life without unnecessary additional stress. Take lots of pictures, spoil your pup silly for her last days, and let her go gently. |
| Op, "the right time" is when you are ready |
| I'm so sorry, OP. Big hugs to you and your family and your sweet dog. We've been through this twice now. From everything you describe it sounds like her quality of life has slipped to the point where it is time to let her go. I would suggest asking the vet about some pain meds for her, take a few days to really say goodbye--tell her everything that is on your heart--how much you love her and how much she's done for all of you--and then let her go over that rainbow bridge. Please take care of yourself. |
| OP we are in exactly this situation. Dog is a little older (15+) but also has arthritis and trouble standing up, walking, etc. And in the last few weeks will be lying on the rug and suddenly start pooping. She also has advanced dementia, weight loss, and other health issues. We went to the vet yesterday for the QOL discussion and she said it was time. The dog is a shadow of her former self physically and mentally. We are going to do it next week -just deciding if we want to take her to the vets office or do it at home. |
Not really. It sounds as if the OP will never be ready but the dog is. |
The right time is when your dog's quality of life is poor and unlikely to improve. You may never be ready. But it's the kindest thing. |
Yeah. Never heard this. It’s like the opposite of the right time. Owners are often never ready. Some prolong the life into a long period of suffering. |
| I have arthritis and it’s the most painful thing that has happened in my life. If your dog can’t even stand I guarantee the dog is in a LOT of pain. |
| The dog will hold on as long as they can because they don't want to let you down. You need to let them know it's ok to go--you are the leader of their pack so they will try to tough it out to please you. Make an appointment to do it home--it won't be easy but it will be more comfortable. |
| NP with no new information to contribute, but I am so sorry for all of these losses. Hugs to OP, and my heart goes out to you. |