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How do I know when to euthanize my senior dog with health issues?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I have a 16 1/2 year old yorkie who is blind and deaf and is experiencing incontinence. The blindness came on suddenly and the vet said it possibly due to extremely high blood pressure and she might have had a stroke. She is currently on medication for the high blood pressure and drops to help with the blindness she experienced 1.5 months ago at the time of the stroke. She walks around the house and thus walks into walls for hours. Is this the right time to euthanize our Yorkie.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 13th, 2023

Hello, thank you for using PetCoach. I'm sorry you are having to deal with this issue.

The right time to euthanize a pet is based on quality of life. If you feel his quality of life is diminished then it is time. In my opinion, no veterinarian will turn you away or judge you for wanting to euthanize her based on the information you provided here. Quality of life is based on many factors. You can check out this link as it may help you to make a decision.

( https://vet.osu.edu/vmc/sites/default/files/import/assets/pdf/hospital/companionAnimals/HonoringtheBond/HowDoIKnowWhen.pdf )

I hope this helps. Best wishes.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on August 19th, 2019
If you feel he has no quality of life, then yes letting him go would be kinder. I would speak to your vet about having this done. It's such a hard decision, but good on you for recognizing it is what's best for him.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Emily, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 15th, 2017
when it comes to determining if it is time to euthanize a pet I recommend stepping back and assessing their quality of life. This may be looking at specific things Flicka enjoys doing, such as eating, playing fetch, going for walks or even just being around family members. If you feel that those specific quality of life factors are diminished and that there are no further treatment options you could consider for Flicka, then it maybe time for euthanasia. Your veterinarian is also a good source of information and they know Flicka better than I as well as if any other treatment options are available.

Ultimately it is up to you and your family to assess Flicka and if there's anything else you are willing to do and or able to do as well as what her quality-of-life is at home. If you feel that her pain can no longer be controlled and that she is no longer enjoying her life then euthanasia is a reasonable option.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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