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One of the most difficult decisions that almost any animal guardian at some point must make is when they must wish their canine or feline companion a compassionate goodbye, by choosing humane euthanasia for a chronically ill, untreatable, or suffering elder pet. As in human medicine, animals are living longer and longer in recent years, and with age come many chronic degenerative diseases. Organ failure including liver or kidney failure, degenerative joint or spinal disease, declining cognitive dysfunction, and cancer of any organ system all top the list of chronic diseases in aging pets. |
And while there have been many medical and surgical advances in helping palliate many of these conditions, there does come a time when an animal guardian must make a decision on continuing management of these and other conditions versus the difficult decision of humane euthanasia when quality of life of most days is very poor. Certainly having a long term relationship with a trusting and kind small animal veterinarian who knows you and your companion best, and who can help you sort through treatment options is an essential part of caring for an ill pet, who may be approaching a transitional period of life, and/or where treatment is no longer helping.
While many animal guardians would prefer their pets pass peacefully in their sleep and/or at home, many dogs and cats can linger for weeks or months in states of suffering, that often only the trusted family veterinarian can assess in an objective, nonjudgmental fashion. While there are some veterinarians who utilize homeopathic medicines in assisting the transitional process, most of the time chemical euthanasia, through the painless injection of an anesthetic, offers the best option for most animal guardians. This difficult decision is one that can only be made after careful consideration, thought and discussion with your family veterinarian.
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2 Comments
My dog is 14 years old & can hardly move around. He eats & sleeps normally, but never lets me know anymore that he needs to pee or poop. For some reason he can’t bark anymore. I don’t feel any lumps around his throat/thyroid area. I don’t have the money to take him to a vet anymore; and I have deep feelings he has an overactive thyroid & diabetes problem. I’ve had dogs for 50 years of my life. I feel like a vet doc sometimes. My question is; is there any way I can put my precious “son” to rest with euthanasia. I’ve given shots before. He weighs 60 to 70 lbs. All the Vets around here want loads of money I just don’t have anymore. I can’t see him suffer anymore. And I know he is. I rent and this house is becoming a pig farm. I’m old and handicapped which makes everything much worse. Can you guys help me? I could euthanise him. Please any suggestions?
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
January 9th, 2011 at 12:08 pm
There is nothing I can suggest for at home care in situation like this or recommend euthanasia at home. Try a local shelter or clinic.
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Hi
I have a 4 yr old neutered cat, he is in good health but this last week he has a very raspy voice (meow) he is very vocal and I don’t know what could be going on. He has slowed down on his eating since his throat has been like this, but is playing and acting fine, coat is good, eyes are clear, not sure on the potty because he goes outside. He did catch a mouse last week, could he have picked up something from it? because the very next day his throat started sounding hoarse. He doesn’t eat them just plays with them until they are dead. He is current on his shots also. plzzz help I am worried, this is the 4th day now. Thank you very much I look forward to receiving your advise.
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Dr. Michael Dym, VMD veterinarian Reply:
January 30th, 2012 at 11:22 am
He could have a viral or bacterial inflammation of his larynx and airways. Iwould take him to vet for an exam and possible medications.
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