How do you know when it is time to put the old dog down?

[Larksmom]

He crossed the bridge today. Thank you for asking. He had done better with the carpet runners, but by yesterday he couldn’t really stand, let alone walk.

[Mosey_2003]

I’m so sorry

[rubygirl1968]

I’m so sorry for your loss.

(((hugs)))

[cutter99]

So sorry for your loss @Larksmom! I lost both mine last year to old age, and if I am really lucky they come visit me in my dreams!

[Larksmom]

it is so weird not having a dog here. It is the first time in over twenty years I have been without one. When I get up, and when I come home, no one to greet me. As you know or can imagine, the cats are indifferent. I went out to lunch after church with my friends, and I had about 1/3 of a cheeseburger left. I would have taken it home, but no dog to give it to. I have started glancing at petfinders. But I am looking for a unicorn. It took me a year and a half to find Trooper, but he was worth the wait.

[Jenerationx]

Aww you did right by him. I’m sorry for your loss.

[rubygirl1968]

I can’t imagine. It’s hard to lose a companion animal but I’ve had one or more here after.

(((hugs))) and jingles that you find a dog soon!

[Arzny]

@RaeHughes

When is it time? A very difficult question and only you who knows your dog can know when it is time. I’ve been fortunate that there was no doubt!

Our last lab (11 years) - well, he got out of the river one day after 10 minutes, lay down by the ute and was just done. Took him to the vet the next day - blinkers on here - and he had a very aggressive form of cancer - as in, according to the vet, it was actively growing on the test slide. Put down.

The Lab/Greyhound (15 years) - a gorgeous cross - just got tired. Very tired and started to dissociate from us. Was okay at 14.5 years- still came running out to go with the you for a walk or work on the farm. Just a bit slower. Then, over the next 6 months, he went down hill. When he didnt want to come out, I knew it was time to let him go.

My BC - well, that was a no-brainer - 3 strokes and a heart attack. Really felt for the vet when her veins collapsed with the sedation.

Best wishes

I came to this thread as my lab/greyhound is slowing down, just as @RaeHughes described. He also has a lump suddenly appear on his chest. My vet didn’t think we need to biopsy it as she thinks it’s just a fatty tumor. He’s 15 this year. I am really worried about him. Planning on getting a second opinion, but of course I am out of the country for a month.