Is it time and I'm in denial?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Op, the right time is when you are ready
There is zero need to torment yourself by seeking an undisputed timeline

I disagree that you should simply make it about you. I think it’s important for you to be mentally prepared, but that’s different from feeling “ready.” I don’t think I ever would have felt ready before putting our dog down. Our dog had bone cancer and was too old (12) for the necessary treatment (amputation plus chemo). He went downhill quickly, but he still perked up on occasion, which made it a hard decision. But, for the first time in his life, he stopped finishing meals, would get up only to change positions, but we had to help him go outside, was often panting, and would wake up in the middle of the night agitated/restless. The panting and waking up were the tipping point for me, because they are signs the pain meds weren’t controlling his pain. On his last day, we took him in a wagon to a lake where he could swim and fetch his ball in the water (swimming wasn’t a problem, just walking). We gave him a hamburger and sausage, and drove him to the vet as a family. What I learned from the experience is that, while it’s incredibly hard for the humans, it’s an act of love for your dog.

[Anonymous]

Yes, you are in denial. I hated that I let my husband’s refusal to admit our dog was miserable meant she lived in misery.

No tail wags is a sign the dog is miserable.