We have a dachshund that is 14 years old. He is diabetic and blind. My husband d

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   ncboundposted 13 years ago

   We have a dachshund that is 14 years old. He is diabetic and blind. My husband don't want to...
   
   take him to the vet but i feel that he is suffering. He is weak on his legs when we take him outside to go to the bathroom and his head is tilting to one side so he will go round and round. He shakes really bad unless he is wrapped tight in a towel or something. He still eats well but i have found a few stools that look like there is blood in them. He sleeps with my husband and the last week or so he has been restless during the night. He sleeps most of the time generally. He will get up if he has to go out but needs help to get him there. Please, i could use some advice.
   thank you
   JW in Flori

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2. 52

   Toadusposted 13 years ago

   Hi, we had a diabetic dog, Benji who was partially blind and we managed to keep him going with diet and insulin injections for over 3 years, we always said when he no longer had any quality of life we would know what to do.
   
   He became ill and went downhill very fast he was not walking properly and seemed upset that we had to carry him to the garden to do his jobs, his appetite went and it was obvious that the joy in his life was gone.
   
   He had a beautiful life with us running on the beach, surfing with the children and travelling to Ireland for holidays, we made the decision on a Sunday morning in July when the sun was shining and he was finding it difficult to go to the toilet, it was heartbreaking but the vet said it was the right time and he went to sleep in our garden surrounded by love in our arms, a fitting end for our dear friend.
   
   It is so hard, but it sounds like your dear friend is now suffering as well, I think you will know what is the right thing to do, as it is too upsetting to see them suffer and they do not deserve to, and although we now have another dog (rescued from Greece!) Benji will always be in our hearts, as your little dog will be in yours.
   
   Best wishes and Kind regards

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3. 64

   nlhouserposted 13 years ago

   I had a vet once who told me, "Nancy, it is quantity time for you or quality time for you pet." This has helped me over the years with our dog rescue of elderly dogs cross over when their quality is not good. I never put a dog down regardless of their age and limitations, unless they are suffering and do not have quality of life. They I let the Lord have them for his pets, as they will arrive to him pain free and joyful.You will know in your heart what to do by looking in your little dog's eyes and not seeing a connection there....sometimes the soul is already preparing to move on. They only remain here physically until you are ready to let them move on peacefully.

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      jeannemarie62posted 6 years agoin reply to this

      this answer is so honest & spot on. I've had dogs over the years, excellent vets (it's so important to *listen to your vet & observe how they hold your pet, calm but gently firm). nancy, your phrase, look in your little dog's eyes ...tears @

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