When is it time to put your beloved dog to sleep?

Question

I've had my Pekapoo since I was 8yrs old, that was 16 yrs ago. It's just so hard to even think about putting her to sleep. I cry at the thought and I can't image actually going through with it. But I think it's time. She is just coughing a lot, she doesn't sleep at night because she is up coughing all night. She drinks a lot of water and currently is taking 3 pills a day for her heart condition and coughing. The pills were helping her at first, but right now they don't seen to make a difference. I know what my answer is..... it's time.... =(

Answer 1

It's always hard loosing a special pet that is more family than pet. We all go through it. But when it comes down to it, when they are in pain and aren't enjoying a good quality of life it is time to let go. Death is part of life, and it is a hard lesson to learn one that most of us learn from that special friend first. It always helps me to know that when they are gone they have gone to a better place where they are no longer suffering and doing what they loved best. And their there waiting for us to join them someday. Instead of thinking about how sad you are try remembering all the wonderful times and things your dog has done with and for you. Be happy that you had your years with her and laugh at all the silly fun things she did. Rejoice in her life, don't cry.

Answer 2

Yes, It sounds like its time. It's hard to think about and do to an animal we've loved for so long. But when they are suffering from something and can't be helped anymore then it's time. I am not looking forward to the day we have to put our oldest dog down either or if he goes naturally. He's gonna be 15yrs old and doesn't have much wrong other than arthritis and a little heart murmor so hopefully he'll be alright for a little while yet. The vet said he could live to be 18yrs old. But if he gets any worse with any of his conditions and can't have much doen to help him I know i would have to let him go. He would understand and would be much happier than suffering they way he is. Sorry to hear that about your dog and always remember the good times you had.

Answer 3

I can feel the pain you are going through because 2 days ago I had to put down my 15 year old dog that I've had since I was 11 years old. It was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do, but I do not regret it. He was in a lot of pain and it was his time to go.

I would recommend you finding someone who will come to your house to do it rather than taking your baby to the vet's office. This way will probably cost more but it's so much better for your dog and for you. Choose a nice spot that she is fond of. I chose a grassy area under a tree in the yard and layed a blanket down. I sat with him the whole time, and it was hard, really hard, but he went so peacefully and I am so glad he is no longer suffering.

I'm so sorry for your pain.

Answer 4

It sounds as though you know it is the right time, but are just having difficulty accepting it. I know how that feels. It is like somebody tearing out your heart. It'll be one year for me on April 22, with by dog, and it still hurts. I knew it was time, and I just did not want to let her go. Don't do what I did. I kept her going for a few weeks longer than I should have, because I was afraid of losing her.I will regret that forever. It is gut wrenching and awful-however-I can tell by what you say that you have loved this dog with all your heart for a very very long time and you know she is suffering. Take a few hours andprepare to say good-bye. Let her know she is loved, and thank her for all the years of love, loyalty and devotion she gave to you. She deserves to be pain free, deserves to go to a better place and know in your own heart you did one hell of a job to keep this dog for all these years and give her a safe, loving and wonderful home. God Bless you both. Namaste'

Answer 5

It sounds like it is time to let your Pekapoo go. You have had 16 years to gather. You will always have the memories. Your dog has been there for you, and know it is time for you to do the right thing.
I believe the kindest thing you can do for her is to let her go.

I have had to put two dogs to sleep. One was a 14 year old Sheltie with cancer. The other was an 11 year old Sheltie with kidney failure.

I could not stand to see them in pain, but I would rather myself deal with the pain of putting them down so that they would not suffer any longer. I held and petted both of them as they were given the shot. They peacefully went to sleep and it was over, except for the crying.

Answer 6

I have an old dog too, so I know a little bit about what you are experiencing. I feel that it is time to put a dog down once they are experiencing so much pain....but the pain cannot be treated by medicine or medical procedures. I would try whatever feasible options are available for my dog, and I would really try to think about whether or not *she* is ready to go. Does she still enjoy life? Does she still wag her tail and act happy? If so, then maybe she isn't ready to go yet. However, if you truly feel it is time, then you are probably right.

Good luck, and take care!

Answer 7

I'm so sorry to hear about your friend. But yes, it is time. She is old and sick, and it doesn't sound like she is having much fun any more.

That is the hardest choice you will ever have to make for your Pekapoo.

So take her in, make sure she knows you love her- then give her to the Great Healer. It will hurt, and yes, you will cry. But it will be better than letting her suffer. And eventually you will think of the life and love you shared together.

God Bless, Honey.

Answer 8

We had to put are dog down too but he was only 3 to make a long story short he died from his paws where swelling up the vet could remove the infection but it would have just keep coming back it was rare the type of disease he had in his paws he wasn't eating he could barley walk so we had to let him go. I hope you make the right decision what ever you feel is right.

Answer 9

When the dog isn't like what they use to be I mean I wouldn't want to have to take 3 pills a day to live, dogs just get old.

Answer 10

I am so sorry. I can feel your pain. I think you know it's time. She has given you 16 years of love and devotion. She deserves to go with dignity. Be assured it's painless and if you can stand to do it, hold her while they give the injection and just talk softly to her until she finally takes her last breath. Her battle will be over.