When Is It Time To Say Goodbye?

Today  marks the first day of Grief Awareness Week so we thought it a fitting  time to discuss one of the hardest parts of pet ownership, when to say  goodbye.

Euthanasia can sometimes  feel like a taboo subject.  No one really likes talking about it, or  even thinking about life without their dog because they are family.   They are a large part of our lives.  They are there for us when others  are not and are our constant, loyal, loving companions for many years.

The  idea of losing that constant companionship is never easy and we can  only hope that when their time inevitably comes that they pass  peacefully, and quietly, in their sleep from old age.

Though  while that is the dream, it rarely happens, and it is far more common  that we must make that dreaded decision on their behalf to free of them  of discomfort, pain, or distress.

Despite  the difficulty of making this decision, it is one of the kindest and  most empathetic things you can do for your dog.  It allows them to go in  peace rather than continuing to struggle through illness, injury,  age-related conditions or other issues that have taken away their  happiness, welfare, and overall quality of life.

Making  this decision is individual to every person and their situation, and  while they may seek others for their opinions, reassurance, or past  experiences, they can’t make the decision for them.

Even  vets can be hesitant to say with authority that it is time to make the  decision and often they will present options, information and may give  their professional opinion as to which way they would go but will let  the owner make an informed decision as to put them to sleep or keep  going.  But there are times that, if the situation calls for it, the vet  will say that euthanasia is in the dog’s best interest.  

Ultimately  though, the decision is down to the owner and whether they believe the  dog can live a full, happy, and healthy life moving forward.  No one  else will know the answer to this, because they won’t know your dog like  they do.  But if they can’t do that, if they can’t enjoy their life,  then it is only right to let them go.

There will be signs that will tell you that it’s time:
- They may have stopped eating, or will only eat really nice things like treats or meat
- They may be losing a lot of weight or body condition
- Their legs may not support them the way they used to and are having falls
- They may become incontinent or forgetful
- They aren’t playing or interacting the way they once did
- They have withdrawn from the family and are less affectionate
- They simply may just not seem happy anymore.
- Medications aren’t as effective and they’re in pain
- They may be in discomfort or distress
- There aren’t any further treatment available for what ails them.

If  you know your dog is getting on in age, or is struggling with a chronic  medical condition, and that decision may be close on the horizon, it is  important to feel prepared.  

While  it is hard to talk about it, speak to your vet in advance so you know  your options, what to expect when the time comes and how to make  informed decisions on the day for things like cremation as you will be  quite emotional.

There are even  options available to book ahead to have a vet come to your home to say  goodbye in familiar surrounds, though it is much more likely to take  place at the veterinary practice.  

While  it may seem like it’s going to be a scary and traumatic experience,  euthanasia is actually a very quiet and peaceful affair.  Sure enough,  you’ll be an emotional mess, but from the dog’s perspective, they get  very sleepy and drift away in barely a blink of an eye.  

Saying  goodbye will leave a big aching hole in your heart, and it will stay  there for a long time, but it will get easier with time.  Holding onto  the happy memories will keep you company and help soothe the pain.

One  day, you may feel ready to share all that love you hold for them with  another beautiful hound that is waiting to find their forever home.