Should I Put My Dog to Sleep If She Has Arthritis & Heartworms?

Deciding whether or not to euthanize a dog is a difficult decision for pet owners.

Take the Dog's Age into Account

Elderly dogs may have more difficultiea harder time with heartworm treatment.

Age is an important factor in dog health. If the dog is elderly, heartworm treatment will be difficult for it, according to WebMD. If a dog is elderly, arthritic and has heartworm, euthanasia might be the kindest option. A young dog has a better chance of recovering from heartworm treatment.

Consider the Severity of the Symptoms

Dogs undergoing heartworm treatment require crate confinement and inactivity.

If the dog has crippling arthritis, heartworm treatment might not be recommended as it requires several months of very limited movement and crate confinement, according to WebMD. In the late stages of heartworm disease, the heart and organs are damaged, and it may be gentlest then to have the dog put to sleep.

A dog with only mild cases of one or both of the health issues mentioned might be a good candidate for treatment.

Bottom Line

The dog's owner is the best judge as to whether the animal is comfortable during treatment.

The dog's owner should ultimately decide whether or not the dog is comfortable and in reasonably good spirits during and after treatment. While discomfort and pain during treatment are to be expected, long-term listlessness, depression, loss of appetite and inactivity are signs that the dog may be suffering. The kindest treatment is that in which the dog suffers the least.

References

• Dog Heartworm Guide: Dog Heartworm Disease
• WebMD: Heartworm in Dogs: Facts And Myths
• American Heartwork Society: Canine heartworm Disease