She is no where near a place where I have to put her to sleep but how far should I let her arthritis get before it is time to start thinking about it. I keep hearing quality of life but what does that mean. I have been to the vet and I have medication but I know she is not going to be as healthy as she used to be. I just do not want to be one of those people that let their dog suffer. I have purchased a bed for her to help but she stays on it all the time.
2006-11-05 20:08:01 · 9 answers · asked by aitios 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
She is 12 and I am trying glucosamine.
2006-11-05 20:30:33 · update #1
I guess the easy answer to your question is you will know. But the hard question is how do you get ready to make this decision. Answer these questions and when they are all no that will be the time: Does she still want to go for walks? Does she still greet you when you come home? Does she seem to be content? Another sign of the right time will be given by her she will stop eating and drinking. This is so hard for you and it is agony to know there is nothing I can do to help you through this time. Just love her lots and make her remaining time with you fantastic. God will take care of you and your friend.
2006-11-05 20:20:09 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
its not a good sign when she's already bed-ridden. If you know for sure she's not suffering you could take care of her within the possibilties. I'd inform myself in detail with the vet, if it's pain that keeps her in bed, tiredness or something else. I had a GSD with the same problem he couldn't get up despite the medication.
Think this is your judgement-call if the dog doesn't get up at all. Whatever you decide, you have our support
2006-11-05 20:26:53 · answer #2 · answered by Bitstorm 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have you tried glucosamine? It can really help. Is her bed egg crate? This is actually considered orthopedic for pets. After that you might want to get a second opinion to see if you are on the right pain reliever at the right dosage. There are are also physical therapists for pets that can sometimes really help these sorts of things. Good luck!
2006-11-05 20:12:28 · answer #3 · answered by Lisa O 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Seeing as Arthritis is a painful and debilitating illness, taking any action (the meds are a great start), creating areas or tasks for her that do not require such exhaustive movement; basically, anything that prevents her from being in any sort of pain is a key part into her "quality of life".
I'm curious as to what kinds of medication; what is the actual function of the meds? Is it a pain reliever or is it to improve her mobility?
There are products available such as Glucosamine (the lube) and Chondrotin Sulfate (the shell to house the lube) for dogs as more and more have trouble with Arthritis as they age. Its a lubricant of sorts that adheres between their joints to provide a smoother movement while walking/moving.
I think we all have a general idea of what exactly "quality of life" means to each of us as far as our pets. The jist being that they're being fed a good quality feed, they live in comfortable quarters away from tormenting weather (I've always considered pets living indoors to offer the best living area for them), they are kept in as best of physical condition as they can be, are entertained with sufficient toys and treats, live without pain or suffering and probably the most important to me is being loved as unconditionally by us as they love in return. Personally, pet "ownership" is just like having children. What I'd do for my children is exactly what I'd do for my pets. They rely on us to care for them just the same.
You've also mentioned her lack of movement; I wonder if it is just the Arthritis as the culprit or if she's losing her energy levels as she ages? Perhaps a discussion with her vet, discussing her energy would be a good option for you. Maybe the Arthritis is farther progressed then her vet expected, maybe more needs to be done?
2006-11-05 20:23:58 · answer #4 · answered by Cookie Nookie 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
One thing you can do that will help her a lot is get her an electric bed warmer for her bed, or good quality heating pad for her bed if you can find one big enough. If not either the single bed sized ones will work. Wal Mart sells them in the electric blanket section.
And when the time comes don't be embarrassed about it tearing your guts out when you have to do it. Don't be the least ashamed about moaning either.
2006-11-05 20:31:01 · answer #5 · answered by JUAN FRAN$$$ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You don`t say how old ur dog is, most large dogs life span is 9 to 10 yrs. If she is still able to go outdoors and walk about the house and her appetite is intact,I don`t think she is ready to be put down just yet. When the time comes she can no longer walk or go outdoors to do her business, then it is time to think about putting her to sleep. Until then enjoy and spend time with her for as long as ur able to keep her comfortable and pain free.
2006-11-05 20:25:33 · answer #6 · answered by flamingo 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
This is a great supplement, and if you read the 'letters' they are genuine..> http://springtimeinc.com/product/94/2
It has helped many dogs of my friend's, and is certainly worth a try..
Your dog will let you know, when she seems to have no enjoyment of food, or affection..and becomes uncomfortable even when on her bed..
2006-11-05 20:21:38 · answer #7 · answered by Chetco 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My family used to have a golden retriever who had hip problems. we used to buy her glucosomine chondroitin, which is a vitamin for human joints. We also used to give her an asprin in the morning and in the evening. We did our best to keep her from laying in the snow, to keep her from tightening up.
2006-11-05 20:12:22 · answer #8 · answered by jambox 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they have some wonderful new arthritis medicines for dogs that
can make her good as new, i've seen them advertised on TV
ask your vet about them
2006-11-05 20:12:29 · answer #9 · answered by Loollea 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋