Euthanizing a Senior Dog

Having experienced euthanasia for an expected death of an aging dog, I realize the public has no idea what animal euthanasia really is or what it should be about. So whether you have a cocky attitude about euthanasia and think it’s great and can’t wait for the medical system to legalize it for humans world-wide, or whether you feel that euthanasia is a nasty term for killing one’s beloved dog, I guarantee what I have spent months contemplating, reflecting and preparing will make you really think

Indicators of Loss of Quality of Life That We Were Told To Evaluate

• Not eating or drinking
• Cannot walk at all
• Bladder and bowel incontinence are too overwhelming for the owner
• The owner not enjoying the dog anymore (when caring about and for the dog becomes too demanding on the owner, it may sound heartless at first, but over time you come to realize it’s not fair to the dog)
• Has a close call indicating his worsening senility is progressing and becoming dangerous and aggressive to the family (Dr P was careful to mention anything that appeared to be a close call was valid, not to wait until he actually became aggressive).

We were told that any one of these was reason to euthanize Titan, and in the meantime we could take him home. I was so sure that we weren’t going to take Titan home that day in February that, at the time I was secretly begging for more time, another second, another moment…. It was never long enough.

You have to understand the dog was almost 15 years old. Totally incontinent of stool, at times incontinent of urine; and very weak in the hind legs. In fact, what had me sure that back in February we would be putting him down was the way he was so weak in the legs for 3 or 4 days he could not make it outside for walks and he would collapse on hard surfaces like wood and tile floors with his legs spread wide like an awkward starfish struggling; urinating himself and unable to get his legs back under his body. He was still a good 80lbs and impossible for me to lift. I couldn’t stand to see him struggling like that. I also couldn’t stand the thought of living without him. I needed the vet to be the mutual voice of reason.

Having experienced euthanasia for an expected death of an aging dog, I realize the public has no idea what animal euthanasia really is or what it should be about. So whether you have a cocky attitude about euthanasia and think it’s great and can’t wait for the medical system to legalize it for humans world-wide, or whether you feel that euthanasia is a nasty term for killing one’s beloved dog, I guarantee what I have spent months contemplating, reflecting and preparing will make you really think about this process.

• I used to have misconceptions about how animals were professionally euthanized. I assumed professionals probably administered a purposeful overdose of a specific electrolyte that would sensitize the heart and make it stop. However, that was MY ASSUMPTION - The truth is much gentler...
• Today, animal euthanasia consists of administering a medication that helps relieve pain, anxiety and relax tense muscles. There may be a sensation of freedom from pain and fear for your pet quickly followed by the relaxing sensation to fall asleep as the body eases into death

With great sadness, a few days after his eating habits had slowed dramatically, he became really unsettled. Very antsy, he couldn’t rest.. He was up and down, every few minutes. He was usually tolerant and would lay still on the carpet as the children hugged him and dressed him up or tucked him in. But suddenly, on that particular day he suddenly wanted to separate himself from them. His restlessness was him trying to stay away from the children and avoid their contact. He walked away from hugs and cuddles. He’d get up and walk to the opposite side of the room everytime our three year old took interest in him. Watching his avoidant, guarded behavior throughout the day, made us believe that an aggressive act was possibly looming. There was definitely a sudden change in his comfort level.

But everyone’s experience in this situation will be different. Every dog is unique. It all depends on the specific dog, the dog’s health, the dog’s abilities, and the owners mind and heart.

The biggest learning from this experience is to not let the public pressure you. Trust me, if it looks like suffering, eventually people will say something, even if the vet can assure you it’s not. And everyone has their tolerance level for incontinence. Many people won ‘t handle any incontinence and others like us, will go to all lengths to accommodate their dog’s needs provided others issues are not as severe as the incontinence. The main issue is that in these critical situations there are no “take backs”, no “do overs”. Already, that sense of permanency is hard to accept. Keeping the dog around a day, a weekend or even a few days longer is better than ending it all too soon.

Healing from loosing a beloved dog who has past is best done by giving yourself adequate time to grieve and work through the process. But also by choosing a wonderful way to remember your dog and your dog's life and personality.

However, I am still trying to find the perfect way to remember Titan. It has been 2 months now. I have ideas, but am looking for a long term way to keep his memories cherished, but private at the same time. Until I find the perfect way to keep his memory valued I will keep thinking out it.

Searching For Information On Family Dogs

• Best Family Dogs
  Learn more about Titan, dog care, tips and fun facts.

Excellent Resources to Help with The Grief of Loosing a Pet

• When To Say Good-bye To Your Dog - Dogtime
  Some dogs simply go on their own, passing peacefully in their sleep; but in many cases the will to survive is stronger than their bodies.
• Making The Decision to put down a Pet - part two - Rainbow Bridge
  Additional Thoughts about making the decision to put down a pet.

Making the decision to put your dog down", is never easy. Take your time, this decision is permanent. Your veterinary can help you navigate this difficult time for you and your dog. In the moment, it is important that you make the last few minutes of your dogs life comfortable and meaningful. You will be able to hold them, talk to them, read or sing to them. Find out before hand if your vet makes house calls, and if not, realize you will be in the veterinarian clinic. Sometimes that sterile environment can feel cold an intimidating. You can bring your dog's favorite blanket or toy if you think that would be comforting. Have a support person come with you too, to be there for you. Someone who will make sure you get home safely afterwords. This is a really hard time for you and it is important that you are safe also.