How to Keep Your Dying Dog Comfortable

Dogs have a much shorter lifespan than people, which means we share all the rich stages of our canine friends' lives. Our culture tends to be sanitized and death is often treated as a hidden taboo. The end of a life is not an easy thing, but it is no less sacred than any other part of life and deserves to be honored. Your dog, like you is on a journey of which every part is meaningful. Whether to euthanize your dying dog is an intensely painful and personal decision which no one can make for you. If you decide to allow your dog to die naturally, here are some ideas to help her comfortable in her last days.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• A good and caring veterinarian
• Waterproof pads
• Dropper or syringe for feeding
• Soft foods and nutrition drinks
• Love
• Courage

1. One of the most important things you can do to make a dying dog feel comfortable is to keep him hydrated. If your dog can no longer get to his water bowl, it is essential that you bring the water to him. If you find he is unable to drink from a bowl, he may be able to take water through a dropper. This will keep his mouth moist and comfortable, but probably will not give him enough fluids for him to feel his best. Your veterinarian can teach you to give fluid injections at home. Given daily or every second day, fluid injections keep your dog hydrated and provide needed electrolytes and sugars. Giving fluid injections is not difficult and will help your dog have a bit more energy and a sense of well being.
2. Even if she is in the last days of her life, you dog will probably feel better if she has some food in her stomach. If she can not go to the food, bring the food to her. Chances are she will no longer take hard dog food. You can try soft dog food, cooked pasta, small pieces of tender meat or even baby food. Your veterinarian may give you special prescription soft food with extra nutrition. If she doesn't eat from a bowl anymore, you can try feeding her through a spoon, dropper or syringe. To boost her nutrition if she is not eating, try a pediatric meal replacement drink. Dogs often enjoy vanilla flavor. This can also be fed through a dropper or syringe.
3. Even if you dog can no longer get up, he still will feel pleasure from being with you and your family. If he is a large dog, you can set up a bed for him where the family spends time, so he won't be alone. If he is a small dog, you can make a portable bed or basket so that he can always be with you. You will be amazed to see how his ears follow you around the room, and how if he cries, the sound of your voice nearby will bring him comfort. His whole body may relax when he feels your hand stroke his fur.
4. Your dog may lose the ability to control her bowels and bladder in her last days. To keep her and your home clean, you can buy soft, waterproof pads for her to lie on. These can go right over her regular bedding and are machine washable if soiled. To be sure you always have a clean one on hand, purchase at least four. If your dog is still mobile, you can buy canine diapers for her.
5. If your dog is trying to walk but having trouble, you may be able to help. There are many dog mobility aids available online, or you can probably rig something up from things you have around the house. The more you can help your dog feel independent, the more joy you will bring to her life.
6. Stay in touch with your veterinarian. She will know from your dog's symptoms if he needs painkillers, steroids or any other change in medication. She can also prescribe liquid medication if your dog is no longer able to take a pill.
7. As difficult as this time is for you, it will not help your dog if you are constantly crying over him. He takes a lot of his cues about the situation from you. Even the saddest of times have beauty and even hidden joy. If you can focus on that, your dog will share in the experience. The time you spend caring for your dog in his last days can deepen the bond between you. Take time to appreciate how much you love him and be grateful for every moment you have together. Try to enjoy the softness and warmth of his head in your lap as you feed him his breakfast and the little wags of his tail when you come into the room.
8. When the end is close, the best thing you can do for your dog is to accept it gently. If your dog can no longer swallow, it doesn't pay to try to force pills or food down her throat. Keep her mouth moist and her body warm and clean. Spend as much time with her as you can. Even if she is unconscious, on some level she will be comforted by your presence. When she has passed on, washing her body to prepare her for burial or cremation is a last act of loving kindness and will help bring you closure.