When Should A Dog Be Humanely Euthanized?

Timing is everything when you’re considering the question ‘When should a dog be humanely euthanized?’ You might think you’d like them to pass naturally, that you don’t want to end their life early. But if they’re physically suffering, is allowing that extended suffering really the most humane option?  

Yes, you’ll be upset to see them go. Yes, you might be lonely without them. And, yes, it’s a big decision you’d rather not make. But the final deciding factor has to involve taking a holistic view of your pet’s quality of life, rather than looking at how uncomfortable the decision might be for you. 

Let’s take a look at what to consider before having a veterinarian humanely euthanize your dog in the comfort of your own home.

Signs Of Suffering And Poor Quality Of Life

Discomfort or restlessness

If you notice your dog can’t seem to get comfortable or is constantly restless, this may indicate a problem. If you know they have an existing illness or disorder that causes them pain, restlessness may be an indicator that this problem could be worsening.

Breathing Problems

Does your dog seem to be excessively panting, sound like they’re gasping for breath, or have difficulty breathing? We know what it’s like to feel short of breath, especially if you’re asthmatic. It can be stressful, painful, and/or very uncomfortable. Problems with such an involuntary action as breathing can be serious.

Won’t eat or drink

Hunger and thirst are basic survival instincts. If those basics are no longer registering, or your dog isn’t reacting to those instincts, there may be some kind of breakdown in their system.

Avoids physical contact

What if your dog pulls away from you when they usually adore attention? This could be another sign of pain or illness. Look for other physical signs. You know your pet and should notice when they’re not acting like their usual self.

Confusion

Another thing to consider while assessing when should a dog be humanely euthanized is whether they seem confused or disoriented. There are various causes for confusion and disorientation in older dogs, such as dementia, anxiety, or strokes. Make sure you see a veterinarian for a comprehensive assessment of your dog’s condition.

Unusual yelping or crying

Do you find your dog seems uncomfortable because they’re yelping or crying? This could be their way of telling you something feels wrong when usually they’re quiet.

Bathroom troubles

If you find your best friend is having accidents around the house when they’ve always asked to go outside, this may indicate bathroom problems, such as incontinence. This is not uncommon with older dogs. Doggy diapers may be sufficient for a while, but with larger dogs, this may not be a convenient option.

When Should You Have A Veterinarian Humanely Euthanize Your Dog?

Whatever situation you’re in with your best buddy, making the decision to terminate their life before nature decides they’re ready is never easy. But choosing to humanely euthanize your dog, particularly with a compassionate at-home pet euthanasia veterinarian, can be an incredible gift of love.

The burning question is always, when is the right time? 

Below are a few examples of situations  appropriate to ‘when should a dog be humanely euthanized.’

Incurable Illness or Serious Injury

Consider having a veterinarian humanely euthanize your dog if they have a fatal disease or devastating injury that will inevitably cause ever more suffering through the course of their life. Try to balance thoughts of their prolonged suffering against your wish to keep them alive.

Chronic Pain

Another sign telling you when should a dog be humanely euthanized is noting when they’re in terrible pain. Pain from conditions like arthritis can be debilitating, and if it can't be relieved with medication and severely affects your dog's ability to enjoy life, you might consider at-home pet euthanasia. 

Poor Quality of Life

You want your pets to love their time with you, but when your dog's daily life involves constant discomfort, and they no longer find joy in activities they once loved, it may be time to let them go. 

Mobility Problems

When standing up from a sitting or lying down position becomes difficult, or you see your dog having real trouble walking or moving around, you know their quality of life is affected and they’re likely in significant pain. 

Hard Time With Basic Functions

Eating, drinking, and going to the bathroom should be straightforward for healthy dogs. So if you see your pet struggling to do any of these simple daily activities, particularly breathing, then ask a veterinarian whether it might be time to humanely euthanize your dog. 

Behavioral Problems

Sometimes, when dogs are sick or in pain, their behavior changes due to the difficulties they’re having because they don’t understand what’s happening to them. This can cause aggression or other changes in their behavior. If your pet becomes dangerous to yourself, your family, or others, and you can’t safely manage their actions, then, together with a veterinarian, consider in-home euthanasia. 

Always Consult Your Veterinarian Before Deciding To Humanely Euthanize Your Dog

This is an incredibly difficult decision, and you won’t fall on this lightly. But trust that your veterinarian is your best resource for discussing and evaluating your dog's specific condition, possible treatments, and the overall impact on their quality of life. Discussing these tough situations with your vet can help you make the most compassionate choice for your beloved companion. 

It may not feel like it, but it is humane to put a dog down when they are suffering from an untreatable condition, or unmanageable pain, or their quality of life has dropped significantly. 

So if you’re noticing signs of chronic pain, difficulty moving or breathing, inability to eat or drink, severe behavioral changes, or loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities, then you must decide on the next best steps for your dog. 

Talking with your veterinarian, sharing your pet’s struggles, and openly discussing your feelings will make for a peaceful and dignified end-of-life process for all involved. At-home pet euthanasia is most often your kindest option.

If you’d like to speak with Dr. Amy about your concerns, please reach out through this contact form or call the number below. 

720-203-7341