The Vet Practice

A question we're often asked involves the Euthanasia of an older pet - particularly at this time of the year when the weather is cold - and the pain of arthritis becomes more noticeable.

And let's face it - nobody wants to see their pet in pain.

Especially when all options of supportive treatment have been explored and nothing seems to help anymore.

The real issue now becomes quality of life - and you are the one who's best placed to make that decision.

Some of the questions you need to ask yourself are:

1. Is she still enjoying her food? (Eating and drinking normally) Y/N
2. Can she still control bowel and bladder function and keep herself clean? Y/N
3. Is she still responsive to commands and seems interested in what's going on around her? Y/N
4. Does she still walk around of her own free will without too much difficulty? Y/N
5. Are the medications still making an observable difference? Y/N

As pet's age, they slow down - a lot and sleep more than they used to.This is quite normal and isn't a significant indicator of quality of life.

If you are one of those people facing this situation and have questions or concerns - please talk to us.

We can help.