Very old dog

[SadiesMom2]

I have a very sad question. What do you do when your dog has gotten too old and may be suffering. Mitch was a stray when we took him in 15 years ago. The vet guessed his age to be about 2 years at that time, and guessed him to be part long-haired dachshund and some kind of terrier. He has been the most amazing dog, grew up with our boys. We have so many wonderful memories. We have had him to the vet many times in the past year, completely going through our savings for various ailments ~ weakening kidneys, high cholesterol, abscessed teeth, incontinence, not eating, weakening liver, etc., etc. We have him on VERY expensive dog food for his conditions, and various medications. Now he has very labored breathing, stumbles around, sometimes falling over, and is totally incontinent. I'm afraid we have completely run through our savings and maxed our credit cards on his behalf. I just don't know what to do at this point. I don't know what I am looking for here ~ I just didn't know where else to turn. Any advice?

 

[-bogart-]

sounds like it is time to help him on his next journey.

it is a tough decision to make , but ultimatly he will let you know when it is time

 

[smkie]

My dog is old as well. ANd i have a plan i hope to be able to do. WHen i feel she is no longer getting any joy from her life i am calling the Mobile vet. HE will send me a tranq for her the day before. WE did this for my best friend's dog. Mary has had several eye surgeries and the vet office makes her tremble.THen i am going to give her all her favorites that she hasn't been able to have because her pancreas acts up. I hope to be able to have her family around her. THat is what i am going to do, at least i pray we will be able to do.

 

[bubbatd]

My guide line was when they didn't enjoy life anymore .... going in the car was 1st sign....it's so sad to make the final decision . Read " A dog's plead " (((( Hugs ))))

 

[Doberluv]

I'm so sorry you're coming to the point where you have to make that heart wrenching decision. We all just have to do the best we can as far as assessing whether out dog's joy in life is so clouded over by illness, pain or sadness. When that out-weighs their pleasure in life, it is time. I've done it many times and it never gets any easier. I'm sorry you're dog is having such a rotten time. You just have to do what you feel is right for your dog. He'll let you know when he's had enough. Just listen to him and watch. He'll tell you.

 

[bubbatd]

I held on too long for my Rufus .... wasn't fair to him .

 

[perla123]

sorry you are going through this. Just luke every one here said, he will let you know when its time to let him go. (((HUGS)))