Euthanasia and Guilt

I’ve had to euthanize several times in not so clear cut circumstances, major DJD, CA, ulcers that would not respond causing diarrhea and losing weight. To be honest I felt relieved after they were euthanized. I did not have to worry about them (two I was concerned of falling and injury from falls) anymore. There was so much stress from worrying about them. I agree with taking care of yourself as well.

Hard decision I know to make but not a wrong one IMO.

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A few years ago I made the wrong call with one of my cats, who was about 15. He had an infection, but we got him turned around. He seemed to be doing okay for a couple of days, then took a turn for the worse. I took him back to the vet thinking a little more treatment and he’d get better. It was a bad decision and I regret it. He was home for a couple of more days but clearly very ill. I realized the right thing to do was to say goodbye, and that I should have done it sooner. That’s guilt.

I always get very emotional with these threads, because my horse is 23 and doing fantastic. But like everyone, I know the day will come when what’s best for both of us is to assure that he leaves this world gently. I know he will wait for me on the other side of the bridge, along with six kitties whose ashes rest in the bay window.

Euthanasia is an act of kindness and is not wrong. Second-guessing the timing is tough not to do, but you did the right thing.

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