When To Put a Dog Down: 6 Signs It Might Be Time
One of the most common questions we get asked is: “When is the right time to put my dog down?”. Unfortunately, there isn’t a straight answer to that, which is why a health assessment by your veterinarian can be really important to help you make this decision. Saying that, there are a few things that can help you decide it is time to check in with your vet. We have outlined some things to consider below:
Understanding the Difficult Decision
The time to say farewell to your dog whether acutely and unexpectedly or after a long battle against a serious disease is an extraordinarily difficult time for everyone in the family, but especially for the primary carer. There are so many aspects of your life that are affected when you care for your pet, some of which you only notice after they are no longer there. Most people don’t want to prolong their dog’s suffering, so understanding when it is time to make the decision and knowing it is the kindest decision for them is incredibly important.
6 Signs it might be time to put your dog down
1.Inability to or difficulty moving: as most dogs age, they will develop chronic arthritis. They may also have spinal issues or muscle loss. When dogs are limping or reluctant to move, they are inevitably in pain, even though they may not cry or yelp in the process.
2.Issues toileting: as their disease process progresses or as they age, they may lose control of their bladder and bowel, or they may be too sore to want to stand up to take themselves to the toilet.
3.Ongoing pain and discomfort: some animals will struggle with pain and discomfort even though they are on some pain killers. If you think this is the case for your dog, make sure to check with a vet to see if there are alternative or stronger medicines they may benefit from.
4.Depression: as the time to put your dog down approaches, they may lose interest in the things they used to love. They may no longer want to go for walks, eat, or even interact with people they love. They may choose to hide away in a room or in the garden instead.
5.Good days vs bad days: dogs that suffer from chronic disease tend to have good days and bad days. It can be useful to create a calendar that gives you a visual representation of that. It is time to think about saying goodbye when they start having more bad days than good.
6.Hygiene: As the time approaches, they will no longer be able to keep themselves clean. They may soil themselves when they go to the toilet, and they won’t accept you grooming them as they are sore and uncomfortable.
Ways To Make Your Dog’s Last Day Special
1. Create a bucket list: this is a way to create some wonderful memories as the time approaches. This may include a walk in their favourite park or at the beach with their people or a delicious steak meal.
2. Plan ahead: this is a difficult one. Sometimes you don’t have the chance to plan ahead, but if you do, make sure you know how you want to farewell your friend. This allows you to feel calmer and be fully present for them when they need you the most.
3. Photoshoot: it doesn’t have to happen on their last day, but if you have the time, take them to their favourite location with a professional photographer. Those photos will be cherished for many years to come.
4. Favourite treats: if they are still interested in food, make sure you let them try the otherwise forbidden treats like chocolate, ice cream, amongst other tasty things they weren’t allowed before.
5. Finally, they just want you to be there for them. Dogs are with us for part of our lives, but we are their whole lives. Your presence is the most comforting gift you can give when it is time to put you dog down.
The Importance of Veterinary Guidance
Having a veterinarian you know and trust is very helpful when navigating the end-stage of your dog’s life. They are there to guide you and give you advice on how to improve your pet’s quality of life. As the primary carer, you have a pivotal role advocating for your pet. You know them best when it comes to their everyday life and routines. Your vet should work with you, listen to your concerns and raise any other concerns they may have based on their physical examination.
Your vet can guide you and reassure you in this journey. Your vet can also help you plan the euthanasia appointment if needed, in order to ensure your pet’s transition is as smooth and as peaceful as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions about ‘Put Dog Down’
What Does It Mean to "Put a Dog Down?
“Putting a dog down” or euthanasia means humanely helping a pet pass away without pain or stress.
When should I consider putting my dog down?
You may need to consider putting your dog down if they are struggling with everyday things like moving, toileting or eating/drinking or their quality of life is poor. If you are wondering about this, please don’t hesitate to contact a vet for help to ensure your dog doesn’t suffer.
How do I know if my dog is in pain?
Some dogs are very good at hiding pain. The most common signs of pain are: depression, reluctance to move, limping, hunching, loss of appetite and thirst, toileting in strange locations, when very severe yelping/crying.
How can I support my children through pet loss?
Our advice is to always be honest and allow them to say goodbye in their own way. They may or may not be present for the procedure. There are also books that can help some children through their grief. They may want to write a card and read it to them before the euthanasia, they may want to choose a toy to send them off with or they may choose some of the beautiful memorabilia or keepsakes Edenhills crematorium can offer.
What is the cost of euthanising a dog?
The cost will vary based on the size of your dog and the day of the week/time. Please refer to our Fees page for further information.
