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My senior dog is suffering. Is it time to consider euthanasia?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Cocker Spaniel | Male | unneutered | 8 years and 2 months old | 31 lbs

I'm not sure if my dog's life is worth living. He sometimes pees to bed when he is sleeping. He has always had problems with his mouth (I mean "good kind of tumors", bad teeth and he has some kind of genetic disease in his gums. We have been treating his mouth and vet has removed almost half of his teeth. But now he has osteoarthritis and he cant walk properly with his backer legs (im bad at english but i mean legs at the back). and now he is hurt to his other front leg. worth living?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 17th, 2017

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 :-(
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