My old dog is dying. Is natural death or euthanasia more humane?

Oh no, I'm so sorry that Santeri is so sick! I work for a home euthanasia service, so I face this question all the time with my clients. I suggest making a list of five things Santeri loved to do. If he's not doing at least two of them, then his quality of life has decreased to a point where humane euthanasia should be considered. It's always a hard decision to make, but if he has a poor quality of life, letting him go peacefully would be a great kindness. If you'd like to discuss this further, I'd be happy to consult with you. Just click the "consult online" button under my answer. Otherwise, I hope my answer helps and I'm sorry you are facing this issue :-(

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Levie. I am sorry to hear that he has reached the end of his life. It is obvious how well loved he is. You will need to make an appointment with his veterinarian for euthanasia. There is not a humane method for doing this with any over-the-counter medications at home. He will need professional care. I hope this information helps.

Hello and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The decision you are trying to make is an extremely difficult one. I will tell you that pets typically don't die peacefully at home- it is usually a rare occurrence. When it comes to making the decision about euthanasia, I try to have the owner think about good days and bad days. Being a golden owner myself, I know what makes them happy- food, attention, going on walks, treats, attention... When you think of all the things Jacky loves, is he still doing those things? Does he still come to the door when you come home, is he able to get up to go to the bathroom or is he pottying on himself, is he still interested in food? When the bad days outweigh the good days, his quality of life is poor. A friend once told me, it is better to make this decision a day too soon than a day too late. As I said it is a very difficult decision but you need to think about what would be in Jacky's best interest. I hope this helps. Kisses to Jacky!

What a hard decision for you to make! I work for a home euthanasia service, so I do face this question all the time with my clients. You need to look at Holly's quality of life. I typically suggest making a list of five things a dog loved to do; when they no longer do at least two of them, then their quality of life has declined to point where euthanasia should be considered. Given that she is incontinent, blind, can't hear well, stands in a corner and stares, and is losing weight, I would say her quality of life has declined quite a bit and it may be time to let her go peacefully. I would have a discussion with your vet about this, and I'm sorry you are in this position. I hope this helps!

Poor Frosty, it's so sad to see your beloved family member deteriorate. From your description it sounds like his time is coming to an end, but it still may be worth him having his trusted vet examine him to ensure that additional pain relief won't give him a bit more time. My feeling is that probably this is associated with the malignacy and not due to arthritis, but a physical exam should be able to help determine if he can be comfortable again. If you call your vet, request a quality of life exam, they will treat you with compassion and be able to discuss all the options available. Making that final decision can be the kindest choice you can make for Frosty.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding your pet. I recommend euthanasia based on several factors. If there is an incurable or painful disease present, I do not want the pet to suffer. I want the pet to be willing to eat and drink on its own. I want the pet to have the mobility to make it to the litterbox or outside to be able to go to the bathroom. I want the animal to still experience joy in its life. This could be short walks, playing with toys or just happy to be with you. If these criteria are not being met, I will discuss euthanasia with the family. If you are still unsure, you can schedule a quality of life consultation with your veterinarian. I hope this information helps.

I'm so sorry you are going through this and that Kasha isn't well at all. I work for a home euthanasia service, so I face these situations commonly. Certainly if she has no activity level, that isn't a very good quality of life for her. I recommend sitting down with your mother and making a list of five things she loves to do. If she isn't doing at least two of them, then her quality of life has declined to a point where euthanasia should be considered. Maybe having a list of things she can no longer do may help your mother realize that Kasha's quality of life has significantly declined. It's always hard to have to say goodbye to a beloved pet. and often the animal is ready to go before we as owners are ready to say goodbye. I'd certainly be happy to consult with you to discuss this further, and you can click the "consult online" button under my answer if you'd like. Otherwise, try making that list with your mother, and I hope my answer helps you.