Deciding When the Time Is Right
The decision of when to euthanize is as individual and personal as you and your pet are. This is a judgment that only you can make, and it involves great personal courage and sacrifice. Many people fear they will not be able to recognize when the time is right. Do not hesitate to seek guidance from your veterinarian. It is good to include family members or friends who share a close bond with your pet in the decision-making process. This is a time when you will need the support of those who truly understand.
Some important things to take into consideration as you contemplate this decision may be:
- Does your pet still seem to enjoy life?
- Is he/she able to carry out normal body functions as before - eating, walking, and eliminating?
- Is your pet in pain?
- What is the prognosis for your pet?
- What are the treatment options?
- Will they create an uncomfortable quality of life for your pet?
- Are you able to afford the cost of treatment? For some, this must be the overriding consideration.
It may be helpful to weigh the good days versus the bad days. When the bad override the good, it may be time.
Remember, no one knows your pet better than you do. You have spent a great deal of time learning to communicate with your pet by reading his/her body language. Attend to what your pet may be trying to communicate. And trust what your heart tells you.
