Ask Dr. LaFarge: Making a Tough Decision
My dog Sadie is an American Eskimo, seven years old. I had taken her to the vet because she had difficulty walking. She falls when she tries to go up the stairs, and her back legs cannot support her. She is in a lot of pain, and it breaks my heart. The vet said she has spinal problems and gave her a shot of steroids, but every day she is doing worse. I want her to be at rest.
How do I go about having her leave this world, in the easiest way possible? I think she belongs in heaven.
—Lillian J.
I understand your desire to give your wonderful dog relief from the pain she is experiencing, Lillian. I have an American Eskimo mix, and I know she always tries hard to keep going.
Your local SPCA or your local vet should be able to offer you a low-cost euthanasia. They can also take care of the body for you. Some people are reluctant to go to the vet because they are afraid to be judged as “giving up” on the dog. The opposite is true. You know your dog better than anyone else, and you know when it is time for her to stop suffering.
The vet who cared for her could euthanize her, but you can also ask for a lower-cost option at your local humane society or SPCA. The sooner you go, the less she will suffer. Thank you for being such a good, loving, responsible owner.
How do I go about having her leave this world, in the easiest way possible? I think she belongs in heaven.
—Lillian J.
I understand your desire to give your wonderful dog relief from the pain she is experiencing, Lillian. I have an American Eskimo mix, and I know she always tries hard to keep going.
Your local SPCA or your local vet should be able to offer you a low-cost euthanasia. They can also take care of the body for you. Some people are reluctant to go to the vet because they are afraid to be judged as “giving up” on the dog. The opposite is true. You know your dog better than anyone else, and you know when it is time for her to stop suffering.
The vet who cared for her could euthanize her, but you can also ask for a lower-cost option at your local humane society or SPCA. The sooner you go, the less she will suffer. Thank you for being such a good, loving, responsible owner.
Labels: Pet Care
posted by ASPCA at 9:55 AM PERMALINK
6 Comments:
I was just wondering if there is anyway that i could find out if my dog got adopted?
It's never an easy thing to do. I've had to do it a few times now and it never gets easier. I always tell my beloved pets to stay with me as long as they can and to let me know when it's time to let them go. I can always see it in their eyes. I go as far as I'm able to get them well. But when I know that suffering might be involved, I make the decision to let them go. I've learned that while their spirit is willing to remain with me still, their bodies just won't be permit them. It's tough...I just ask God to help me to what's right for them when the time comes. I think you already know it's time to let your loved one go. Sometimes we just need to hear it from someone else. God bless your beloved dog...
Making this decision is very difficult, I know, I had to make it with my Springer Lab 3 years ago. The way I accepted it was that I ALWAYS gave him THE BEST, the best food, the best play time, the best beds and of course the best love, however, after several eye operations, final one his eye was removed, and finding cancer, I decided he was not living THE BEST life, so I decided to send him up to Lassie and all the greats. It was difficult, but I knew that although I DID NOT WANT him to go, it was the best for him. I had an "individual" cremation done and I keep his ashes in my bedroom with his picture. I know he knows that he will always have THE BEST. I wish you all the best and hope you don't give up on all the love a canine can give.
I am so sorry that you need to make this decision with Sadie. I know how heartbreaking, and painful it is for you to make this decision. When the time comes you may look into having an animal care giver that will come to your home. Both Sadie and you may be less anxious. It seems more comforting and makes the passing easier. Your love for her is evident, and my heart is with you both.
My heart breaks for you and Sadie. I think in these situations that if it is possible, an at-home passing could be best. Plus it saves the beloved additional pain of moving. God bless you both.
I HAD THE PAINFUL TASK OF DECIDING MY BELOVED GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG *ALITA*'S FATE THIS PAST FEBRUARY.SHE WAS 10 YRS OLD AND SUFFERED FROM SPLEEN CANCER.MY FAMILY TOOK HER TO A SPECIAL HOSPITAL WHERE WE SAID OUR GOODBYES TO HER IN A PRIVATE ROOM,WITH SOFT MUSIC,& HER FAVORITE BONE IN TOW WE EACH IN TURN LET HER BE AT PEACE.GOD BLESS
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