My old dog seems to have had a stroke. Is it time to euthanize him?

Hello. I am sorry that Buddy isn't feeling well and having these issues. It sounds like he has a very loving family. Recovery time from stroke can vary significantly, so if you are seeing improvements then you can keep going. I would recommend having him rechecked by a vet to make sure that his legs not working aren't due to a problem in his spine instead of his brain. Also, if he can't use his legs it is very important to make sure he can urinate and defecate, as sometimes the nerves are affected as well for these functions. In terms of when to euthanize, this is a question of Quality of Life (QOL). If you feel his 'good' days are outweighing his 'bad' days then keep going. If the 'bad' days are more common then the 'good' days then it's time to consider euthanasia. It helps to keep track in a journal so you can see the progress. Also, it is helpful to write a list of all of the things and behaviours that make Buddy, Buddy. Does he love to go for walks, does he love to eat. Is he still doing these things that he loves, or has he stopped. If he isn't doing the things that make him, him, then maybe it's time to euthanize. I would also always recommend as well having a consultation with a neurological specialist, as there may be other medications and options for Buddy. Good luck with him!

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.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Hunter. I recommend seeking emergency veterinary care for him. Strokes are actually very rare in dogs, but can happen. More commonly, dogs will experience vestibular disease. This is a problem with balance that will result in nystagmus (eyes twitching back and forth), a head tilt, walking in circles, stumbling and falling down. This can be caused by an inner ear infection, hormonal disease or a brain tumor, but is usually idiopathic meaning there is not identifiable cause. This is referred to as Old Dog Vestibular disease. This is usually a condition that can be treated and the dog will do well. If this is not the case, he could be experiencing a toxin exposure, trauma or an infection. It is important to have him evaluated so that treatment can be started. I hope this information helps!

This is an extremely difficult decision to make. I always try to look at a dog's quality of life to determine if they are still able to do most of the things they've always loved. If they are unable to do half of their favorite things, it is likely that their overall quality of life has declined and euthanasia may be warranted. Since your dog is currently eating, drinking, acting and playing normally, it does not sound as though her time has come. However, since one of her masses ruptured, there is a chance that it could become infected. Ideally, the mass would be surgically removed and biopsied. If surgery is not an option, she may need a course of antibiotics to prevent the onset of infection in the open lesion. If the open mass continues to bleed or begins to cause discomfort, you may need to decide if she should have surgery or euthanasia. If you are beginning to question if the time for euthanasia has arrived, consider discussing this with your vet to get their take since they have examined your dog and can provide some insight into her current quality of life. I hope this helps.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Cuddles. I agree that his condition sounds very serious. Most of the time, sudden onset vestibular disease does not have an underlying cause in an older dog. There are cases that are due to an inner ear infection, thyroid disease or even cancer. If there is not an underlying cause of his vestibular disorder, most dogs will recover within 24-48 hours. Most dogs will benefit from motion sickness/anti-nausea medication to keep them comfortable until the symptoms resolve. That being said, the inability to use his rear limbs is much more concerning. A bulging or ruptured disk in the lower back can cause paralysis. Severe orthopedic disease can cause the same problem. Not being able to walk and interfere with the dog's ability to urinate and defecate. Furthermore, sores can develop on the limbs from the dog dragging itself. This is where quality of life issues present themselves. You obviously know Cuddles best, but it is worth having a more detailed conversation with his veterinarian concerning euthanasia. You can voice your concerns and gain insight into why his veterinarian made this decision. I hope this information helps.

It sounds like he may be suffering from Lymphoma which is a terminal disease at his age. you should take him to the vet ASAP to get it confirmed, if this is the case- euthanasia should be considered.

Hi and thanks for posting. Oh I'm sorry to hear about Sophie. I know this is a hard decision to make and is never easy. It can be hard to say without seeing Sophie first, but if you notice Sophie is having more bad nights/bad days than good restful nights/good days, then it may be time to consider end of life care. Decreased appetite or disinterest in food as well as usual activities are also signs to look out for as well. I am happy to discuss further with you in a text consult as well. It would be helpful to get a little more information on Sophie so I can best advise you further. If I don't hear from you further, I hope this has helped a bit and I wish you and Sophie the very best.