My old dog is confused and in pain. Is it time to say goodbye?

I am so sorry about Nubby. It definitely sounds like it is time for an exam/consult re: humane euthanasia with a veterinarian you are comfortable with. Yelping when moved, panting and shaking when at rest are likely signs that Nubby is in pain. Incontinence and inability to use her back legs are definite factors that diminish quality of life. Wishing you strength and love during this difficult time.

Oh no, your poor dog! It sounds like she is in really bad shape physically. I would have her seen by a vet first thing in the morning to see if there are any treatments possible for her symptoms. If there aren't, it would be time to discuss letting her go peacefully. I know that's not something you want to hear, but it may be best for her given her symptoms. I recommend making a list of five things she loved to do, and if she's no longer doing at least two of them, then her quality of life has declined to a point where humane euthanasia should be considered. I work for a home euthanasia service, so if you'd like to discuss this further with me, I'd be happy to consult with you. Just click the "consult online" button under my answer. Otherwise, I hope this helps and you should take her into the vet in the morning.

Since Harley is showing a lot of symptoms of illness, it would be best to schedule a veterinary visit first to see if you can figure out the cause of her symptoms. It's possible they may be treatable with changes in diet or medication that can improve her quality of life. Your vet can also discuss with you prognosis of any illnesses, help determine if she is in pain, or discuss other problems that are found, which can help you make a better informed decisions about how to handle Harley's future care.

Poor Ben. It sounds like his quality of life is poor at the moment. I'm glad the pain meds are working, but I would speak to his vet about his quality of life and if it may be time to say goodbye. I'm sorry.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Dexter. When discussing quality of life with owners, I like to have objective questions that you can answer to guide the decision making process. When a dog is elderly with a chronic condition, you can expect the pet to have bad days. However, the good days should outnumber the bad. The pet needs to have enough mobility to get to his food and water independently and to be able to go to the bathroom. He needs to still have the desire to eat and drink. His pain to be reasonably well controlled. Finally, he needs to have some joy in his life. It may be different from in his younger years, but he should still enjoy things. I know this is an extremely difficult decision, but I hope this gives you some information to consider. I cannot say without evaluating him myself, but I suspect the time is near based on what you have described. I hope this gives you some peace.

I'm sorry to hear that but according to your description i do believe it is time to have her put to sleep as her quality of life is really not good anymore and this should always be the main concern.

The decision to euthanize is extremely difficult and there is no right or wrong answer. I advise my clients to consider euthanasia when they feel like their pet is suffering so much that they don't seem themselves anymore; or just don't seem to enjoy life anymore. You will be the best judge of this. From what you are describing with Toto, I would consider euthanasia an option, because he has signs of pain (not eating and wobbling) and is not able to be a normal dog. A fifteen year old dog is quite old; which tells me that he has definitely had a good, long life. It will be worth taking him in for an exam by a vet, before making a final decision, because they may be able to help him. Either way, it's a personal decision and I'm sure your vet will be OK with whatever option prevents any unnecessary pain. I hope that helps and wish you the best during this very difficult time.