is my dog suffering?

Question

my dog is 14/15 he has a tumour on his neck and a heart murmur. the vet has already taken another tumour away from his privites several years ago. just last week he had diarreaha with blood in it, he has stopped that now, but has little appertiate and sleeping a lot but still barks at the door when someone comes.is it time to put him to sleep? i dont want him to suffer but how if he is or not do i dont want him to suffer

Answer 1

It is a decision that only you and your vet can make. If he is eating and happy to see you, is able to get up and move around, he likely isn't in great suffering
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Answer 2

Yes Andrea,
I think it sounds like your dog is coming to that time. 14 - 15 yrs old is a good long life, the tumors and such are only going to continue to grow. The loss of appetite is a sure sign that he's coming to the end. If he stops eating completely its time. When I worked at the vet hospital that was always the time we suggested letting go or the older ones rather than going to medical extremes. Normally, I'd defer to Chetco on this one because he has SO much more experience than even I have . But to me, If it were me, I would be making ready for the when time comes that he shows disinterest in even trying to do his "job", then I would give him the best week EVER, junk food and special alone time with me, lots of love and attention and then see if your vet or a mobile vet will come to home and put him down. Dont let ANYONE talk you into prolonging this or make you feel guilty. This is a QUALITY OF LIFE issue, and I'm a big believer in DIGNITY as well, not a sentimentality thing, you've given this dog a good life and the fact that he still gets up to do his job at the door as sick as he is, is his way of showing his love and appreciation for those years of care.
Let him go with love honey.
So sorry about this.
Be well.

Answer 3

i always say you know our dog. you will know if he isn't happy anymore. it's hard without seeing him but do you really think he is suffering???
If you are really concerned take him to the vets let him know that you don't want to see the dog suffer. I wouldn't try removing any tumors but just a general check and talk with the vet may help you decide.
Another question you say he barks at teh door when someone comes, How is he other ways. does he still act like he's happy and wnats to do things??
I realize with his age and heart murmur he isn't a playful puppy, but is he just laying around looking like he wished he was dead or does he still get around and want to be with family member???
This is what I look for in most cases the dog will tell you.
And just remember at this age he has had a good life and you ;have done everything you can his time is coming and teh best is to let him go than to have him suffer.
Let me say I'm sorry I feel for you I have had to make that decission with a dog that was only 3 years old but had cancer. It is hard but is the best.

Answer 4

If he is still eating and walking to the door, barking like he usually does, I dont think he's suffering. I would give him all sorts of good foods that he likes, and love him up extra because you know he wont be here too much longer. When your buddy stops eating, and doing the usual things then you know he really doesn't feel well, and then maybe it's time. You will know- just remember, he's most happy and comfortable at home, with you. Keep him there as long as you can! God bless.

Answer 5

It sounds as if he is suffering, if he is eating very little and sleeping alot. You really can't tell what he is trying to tell you, and I know it's hard to lose a pet. I would do the right thing and put him to sleep. So he won't suffer anymore.

Answer 6

tumor on his privates? wasn't he neutered? if he is eating, ambulatory and can still go potty,,, let him be.. when the time is right you will know

Answer 7

well you know your dog just look ito its eyes and youll know whats best