1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Dogs

The Hardest Decision A Pet Owner Has To Make ...

... When to end the pain.

From , former About.com Guide

This is, without a doubt, the hardest choice a pet lover has to make. At some point in every dog's life, comes a time when her owner starts to think about letting her go, and ending the pain, whether from sickness, or old age.

How do you know when the time comes to let go? At what point do you keep on paying for expensive treatments, and when do you know to stop?

If you are struggling with these questions now, maybe it is time to take a step back, look at things from a neutral point of view, and ask yourself some very hard questions.

Why is she still here?
Is she here because she wants to be here?
Or is she still here because you want her to be?

If extended treatments are helping her stay alive, ask yourself this:
Are these treatments adding quantity of life without adding quality?
Does the pleasure of living outweigh the pain?
Do the bad times outnumber the good?

Once you've answered these questions, examine your answers carefully, and ask yourself again: Is it time to let go?

And you may find you have your answer.

Recommended Reading
Jasper's Day
Angel Pawprints: Reflections on Loving and Losing a Canine Companion
Three Cats, Two Dogs: One Journey Through Multiple Pet Loss
Goodbye, Friend: Healing Wisdom for Anyone Who Has Ever Lost a Pet
When Only the Love Remains: The Pain of Pet Loss
Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates
Surviving the Heartbreak of Choosing Death for Your Pet
Legacies of Love, A Gentle Guide to Healing from the Loss of Your Animal Loved One

Explore Dogs

About.com Special Features

Home Allergy Center

Banish mess, reduce allergens, and maintain a clean, healthy home. More >

Home Improvements Made Easy

Inspirational ideas and expert tips to help you pull off your next DIY project. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Dogs
  4. Dog Care Basics
  5. The Senior Dog
  6. About Dogs - Time to Euthanize - When to Say Good-Bye to your dog

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.