He takes Lasix and Digoxin daily. He frequently gasps for breath especially when he comes up the steps. When he is lying on the ground you can see the intensity of his breathing. He has severe smelly ear problems and is slightly blind. There are many many times when he messes in the house. I want to take him to the vet but my husband makes me feel bad. Saying that I just want to put him to sleep. Am I being horrible or is the dog suffering and would this be better for him.
2007-11-04 23:56:24 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Dogs
We see this stage in all our patients, and it is a very difficult thing to watch them suffer, and the terrible sadness their owners face. Congestive heart failure is incurable, as you know, and will eventually claim your dog's life. You should realize that you are his guardian, and that it's up to you to decide how you want him to go. Some CHF patients pass in their sleep with no pain, as some humans do. Others gasp and struggle for days before succumbing to a painful heart attack.
What you must come to terms with is the fact that you, and only you, have the authority to judge when it is 'time'. When his bad moments out number the good, you should gather the strength to afford him a peaceful and painless euthanasia. Don't let your husband make you feel bad, there is NO reason you should feel like a villain for considering euthanasia for your pet. We should all be so lucky, when our time comes, to look forward to a smooth and easy end.
Good luck.
2007-11-05 00:23:32 · answer #1 · answered by JeN 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Believe me I know what you are going through. I lost a long time furry friend to, she was barely moving her breaths were short and hard to come by. She stopped eating after awhile and could barely move. We decided that no animal should be kept suffering just for our enjoyment. They only care that they are suffering. You should take you beloved dog to the vet. You are not being fair to the dog (or rather your jusband is). Be strong, you will always have memories!
2007-11-05 00:07:41 · answer #2 · answered by Jessay 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
you are not being unfeeling for wanting to take your dog to the vet.it is no life for him when he can't breathe and he has all these health problems. it is a big step and the vet will most likely advise you that it is time to let go.you love your dog an hate to see him suffer.i have had sick dogs over the years and had them put down it is hard and you really have to talk yourself into it but the time comes and you will know when the poor guy has had enough.your hubby just doesn't want to let go yet.so you might have to be the one to decide on the outcome.good luck.
2007-11-05 00:18:17 · answer #3 · answered by john n 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This would be a horrible thing to do to your best friend.
I have a 10 yr old Spaniel that I love dearly and would never think to put him down until he lets me know he wants to go. And they let you know.
The ear problems can be treated with ear meds. Ear problems are notorious for Cockers, and anyone contemplating getting one, should know this. They are not curable.
Mine has a cataract in one eye, but is starting to get one in the other. He is extremely 'clingy' and follows me all over. But I understand why.
Mine messes in the house sometimes. You either need to let him out more often or get him doggy diapers. Yes, doggy diapers. Humans wear them at the end of their lives if they need to, dogs should have at least that much care.
I think your dog is too young to be put to sleep despite his problems. But it would be better than abandoning him and putting him in a shelter where they'll do it anyway.
I would take care of him until he lets you know when HE wants to go.
2007-11-05 00:11:09 · answer #4 · answered by Big Bear 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Unfortunately the day will come when you will have to make that very difficult decision. Letting a dog suffer just because we do not want to face that responsibility is selfish and cruel. Whether he dies on his own or you have him put down, losing him will not be easier, why delay the inevitable at his depend.
2007-11-05 00:07:25 · answer #5 · answered by Jane Marple 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
this poem I believe says it all
To me it sounds like it's time and I hate to say it but your husband is being crueler on saying teh dog is better suffering.
PUT ME TO REST
Time to let me go my friend,
Because my life no-one can mend,
Its better to let me go this way,
Than watch me suffer night and day.
I'm happy to go, my time has come,
My quality of life is no longer fun,
Ive been so ill, so its not a bad thing,
To let me go forever resting.
Stay with me till I drift away,
Fast asleep forever I pray,
To relieve me from suffering and pain,
What more can I ask from my best friend.
Don't be sad, I'll be free from pain,
Never to be ill ever again,
I know you'll miss me being there,
But all the memories you have to share.
Thankyou for being my best friend,
And all my needs that you did tend,
Try not to be sad, try not to cry,
Now's the time to say GOODBYE
2007-11-05 02:20:10 · answer #6 · answered by Kit_kat 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Definately take him to the vet, if the vet reccomends putting him down please go ahead with it. Its painless for them.
2007-11-05 00:05:01 · answer #7 · answered by pamphlet_one 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋