There's no way around it: Putting down a pet is one of the most difficult decisions a pet parent can make. When is the right time? As you can probably guess, there's no completely right or wrong answer. The right time will depend on multiple factors, such as your pet's quality of life, your quality of life and whether your pet has a certain health condition or ailment.
Though the decision is always a sad one, in some situations, putting down a pet can be the most humane choice. Remember that Dr Mac Mobile Vet Adelaide is your best resource for non-judgmental and expert advice. If you're facing the question of when to put down a dog or when is it time to put your cat down, consult us. Below are just some things to consider when facing this difficult decision:
One of the most obvious reasons to consider humane euthanasia is when a pet has a terminal disease, such as heart failure, cancer or another incurable condition. It's important to talk to your veterinarian about how they will manage the disease — in some cases, a specialist may be necessary. Make sure to ask your veterinarian some questions such as whether or not the management of the disease compromises your pet's quality of life, even if it does extend it. In these cases, when your pet's health will continue to decline, helping them pass peacefully can be the last gift that you give your beloved pet.
Many pets, especially large dogs, can develop osteoarthritis — a progressive, painful degeneration of their joints. This condition can make it difficult and painful to walk, run, get up and down, jump and climb stairs. This disease can be especially distressing because dogs with osteoarthritis can be otherwise healthy in body and mind. Sometimes pet parents will wait longer to let go of their pets in these cases because it is hard to know just how much pain their pet is in.
If your pet is dealing with pain or loss of mobility that's no longer responding to treatment, talk to your vet. There might be other options, or it may be time to discuss end-of-life care.
Sometimes, despite pet parents' best efforts, dogs and cats can develop behavioural problems that put them, other pets and/or people in danger. Your vet may recommend humane euthanasia for safety and human health reasons. Behavioural issues in themselves are never a reason to euthanize a pet, but in cases where they cannot be corrected despite all your efforts to help, and they pose a threat to other pets or people, your veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist is the best person to consult at this time. These cases are often especially emotionally difficult.
One simple measure that you can use to help you decide when to put down a dog or cat is to determine whether your pet is having more good days or bad days. If your pet is down but still happy overall, then it's probably not time. If your pet has lost their zest for life, their appetite or doesn't enjoy any of the things they used to, then it's time to either enlist veterinary intervention or discuss end-of-life care.
If you're tasked with deciding when to put down a dog or cat, know that it won't be easy. Plan ahead, trust us and we will guide you with this difficult decision.
