Reply #1: My 17-1/2 year old Cocker/Golden mix died that way. [View All]

[Longhorn]

He only quit eating on the last day or so but he lost control of his bowels. He didn't seem to be in pain but I did some checking around and found some information at the Texas A&M Veterinary School site (that I haven't been able to find since!) that offered advice about when to have a pet euthanized. One statement was that animals can be in pain without showing it so the lack of crying or groaning doesn't mean they aren't in pain. Sandy slept most of the time and took no interest in anything around him, though when we walked through the yard with him before we took him to the vet, he did seem to enjoy it, which, in a way, made it harder, since we started to have second thoughts.

I don't think it is ever easy to make the decision, not just because we're going to miss them, but because we don't want to lose them a minute too soon, nor let them suffer a minute too long. I think your vet will be honest with you about whether waiting will cause your dog to suffer. Whatever decision you make is clearly out of love for your little guy. I wish you the best. :hug: