Persistent pain in your dog? Tried meds, therapies, home changes? Signs: panting, licking, whining, decreased appetite, discomfort, decreased activity.
Is your dog in pain despite treatments? Signs: panting, licking affected area, whining, reluctance to move, decreased appetite, inability to get comfortable, reduced activity.
Is your dog eating well? Refusing food, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea? Hand-feeding or a feeding tube may be needed for nutrition. Consult vet for anti-nausea meds.
Dog's appetite normal? Refusal, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea? Try hand-feeding or feeding tube. Discuss anti-nausea meds with vet for underlying conditions.
Is your dog's drinking normal? Abnormal intake indicates unmanaged disease. If hydration is an issue, vet may suggest IV fluid therapy or subcutaneous fluids.
Is your dog drinking as usual? Abnormal intake hints at unmanaged disease. If hydration is challenging, vet may advise IV fluids or subcutaneous administration.
Can your dog groom normally? Incontinence? Mobility? Incontinence + immobility may influence decision. Struggling with cleaning daily damages owner-dog bond.
Is your dog's grooming intact? Urinary/fecal incontinence? Mobility? Incontinence + immobility affect choice. Daily cleaning strain damages owner-dog bond.
Is your dog happy? Does she still enjoy activities? Can she perform them? Does she greet you enthusiastically? Watch for signs of anxiety or depression.
If your dog no longer enjoys normal activities, consider if you're prolonging her life for your sake. Letting her go may be kinder if she isolates herself from the family.