Any time we are presented with a pet whose owners have struggled with the choice for euthanasia it is very sad and difficult for all involved, and our hearts go out to each and every person who has had to choose when to say goodbye. In the recent weeks, I have been thinking about how many people are sitting at home wondering how to know when the time is right for their pet. It’s not a light subject, and much thought and preparation should go into it.
Our pets give us all they have for the time they are here, and we do our best to keep them in shape and healthy. However, pets (just like humans) are susceptible to illnesses, which can be life altering or even life threatening. And then it happens… You notice them start slowing down on walks or not chasing their favorite toy. Eating becomes a chore instead of something they looked forward to everyday. They’ve started losing weight or muscle mass and then it’s like overnight when you look into their eyes, it’s not the same sweet, loving, caring pet looking back at you. Instead you’re looking into the eyes of a pet who is asking for compassion and selflessness, they’re letting you know it is okay and they’re ready. For some of you, it is that clear and you know, for others, it’s not so clear and you often struggle daily as to what the right decision is for your pet. Below is a questionnaire that may help you make that decision. You can use it to evaluate your pet weekly, monthly, or however often you find yourself contemplating “Is he suffering?”.
Our pets give us all they have for the time they are here, and we do our best to keep them in shape and healthy. However, pets (just like humans) are susceptible to illnesses, which can be life altering or even life threatening. And then it happens… You notice them start slowing down on walks or not chasing their favorite toy. Eating becomes a chore instead of something they looked forward to everyday. They’ve started losing weight or muscle mass and then it’s like overnight when you look into their eyes, it’s not the same sweet, loving, caring pet looking back at you. Instead you’re looking into the eyes of a pet who is asking for compassion and selflessness, they’re letting you know it is okay and they’re ready. For some of you, it is that clear and you know, for others, it’s not so clear and you often struggle daily as to what the right decision is for your pet. Below is a questionnaire that may help you make that decision. You can use it to evaluate your pet weekly, monthly, or however often you find yourself contemplating “Is he suffering?”.
Know that when the decision is made to end their suffering, it is the most loving and compassionate thing you can ever do for your pet. I personally believe Heaven is a place full of our furry friends waiting for us to come back to them.