How to Decide When to Put a Pet To Sleep

Facing the decision whether or not to put a pet to sleep is a difficult one. Various factors need to be considered. Whether your pet is young or old, illnesses or injuries may often make their lives difficult. However, pets are an extension of the family. A pet that has been diagnosed with a terminal illness may present different factors than one that is merely growing old. When trying to determine whether or not the time may be near for that decision to be made, there are several steps that pet owners may take to assess the health and quality of life of their pet.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Spend several weeks evaluating your pet's quality of life. Watch your pet for signs of suffering or discomfort. Painful arthritis or pain caused by old injuries makes it uncomfortable for many pets to move around.

2. Evaluate your pet's eating habits. Try different foods to entice your pet to eat. Lack of appetite may lead to malnutrition and weakness.

3. Evaluate hydration. Animals, just like people, must stay hydrated to keep things working properly. On the other hand, a pet that has no control over urination may experience extreme stress and risk of bladder or kidney infection.

4. Observe bowel movements. Normal bowel movements signify a healthy digestive tract, while diarrhea or constipation are a sign that chemical imbalances are present.

5. Evaluate independent movement. If normal daily activities are causing your pet to suffer, the decision to euthanize or put the pet to sleep may be imminent.

6. See if your pet still enjoys and recognizes you. Many animals that are going blind or deaf can still function relatively well, but a totally blind or deaf dog unable to adapt or to function may show a steady decline in interest, activities and even eating.

Tips & Warnings

• For more information about euthanasia, call or visit your local veterinarian.

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