Hey all! This may be kind of a dumb post as I know I need to make this decision myself, but I‘d sure love some advice. My oldest dog is 11, going on 12. The poor girl is diabetic, blind, has fatty lipomas, and mobility issues due to diabetes, breed, and age. This morning, we are fairly sure she had a stroke of some sort (the vet agrees with this diagnosis so far, blood work and an X-ray are incoming). She eats but doesn’t really want to get up much, and is generally just resting most of the day. She still has a bit of sparkle in her eyes but she doesn’t really seem to have much energy left. The vet hasn’t mentioned it, but I‘m pretty sure it’s about time to say goodbye. The most important thing to my partner and I is that once she’s suffering, it’s time to let go. She just ate a nice full dinner but still doesn’t want to get up and do much. How long would you give her? Till she’s not eating? The vet hasn’t brought it up yet, so maybe I should be patient, but she’s been such a good friend, I don’t want her to suffer. I’m just at a loss, and this is the first time I‘ve had to do this horrible calculus.
I’m sorry to hear about your dog, but personally that list would have had me making the appointment already. Putting me in place of your dog, it’s what I wish someone would do for me. Having been there I know it’s one of the hardest calls to make, but it really is about quality of life and not wanting to wait “too long” and cause undo suffering to a non-vocal friend. 😢
Thank you, friend. I think my heart knows the answer, it’s just time to face it. We are going to go ahead and do the x-ray at the first available opportunity, but also go ahead and start the conversation about the end, if not just go ahead and make the call. I‘ve never had to make this decision and I must admit it’s hard, even though I know it’s right. I really appreciate your thoughts.