Is this enough reason to put our beloved dog to sleep?

1. 52

   benoniboyposted 13 years ago

   Is this enough reason to put our beloved dog to sleep?
   
   Our 17 year old terrier mix Sadie has slowly been losing the use of her back legs, and now either sits or lies most of the time and drags herself around. The vet has tried various treatments for arthritis but nothing seems to help. Problem is that when she drags herself outside to urinate or poop, she ends up sitting in it, poor thing, and then drags herself in again spreading a trail after her and everywhere she ends up. Not pleasant to put it mildly. It is becoming untenable. What do we do?

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2. 61

   TheBlondieposted 13 years ago

   I strongly recommend finding a holistic veterinarian who uses treatments such as water therapy, herbs, and more natural remedies. My aunt is one, and I have heard hundreds of stories like yours where it looked like it was the end for the animal, but the alternative treatments worked wonderfully and now they are as healthy as ever. Putting down a pet is hard (trust me, I know) but sometimes it is the right thing to do. Try finding a holistic vet first, but if the animal is in too much pain, you should do the right thing.

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3. 61

   NorthEast Timberposted 13 years ago

   Is she in pain?  Dogs don't seem to mind becoming disabled as much as people seem to.  They just deal with it and do the best they can.  Dogs can overcome just about anything and will do so until their bodies quit.  They don't set limits for themselves.  If she's not in pain then she is still finding joy in life, even if there is discomfort.  They don't focus on the impairment or the pain.  I hope you don't put her down just because she is an inconvience.  She deserves more than that.  While not pleasant, I know, it does wash up.

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4. 60

   BReindersposted 13 years ago

   You might try building a little two wheel scooter for her rear end. Then just lash her in and let her pull herself around and do her thing. Of course you will have to help her up and down steps and such. Also it will need to be built so she can go to the bathroom without any trouble. If you are having trouble envisioning what it would look like just imagine half of a skateboard or roller skate.

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5. 0

   jasper420posted 13 years ago

   i realy hate this god i hate this but she needs to be put down im so sorry to tell you this but she is suffering and no animal should ever have to go through that i just put my dog down for almost the same reason much sympathy my prayers are with you and Sadie tonight

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