Saying goodbye to a cherished pet is one of the most difficult and heartbreaking decisions a pet owner can make. However, as dogs grow older or develop serious health problems, this choice often becomes necessary. This article highlights 18 important signs that may indicate it’s time to let go.
Social Withdrawal
According to PetMD, behavioral changes, like “isolation, becoming detached from human or animal companions, [and] loss of interest in social interaction,” are signs that dogs may be nearing the end of their life. Dogs naturally seek companionship, so these signs could indicate that they’re in pain or experiencing a decline in health.
Loss of Balance
A clear sign of decline in dogs is a loss of balance. This can manifest as unsteady movements, confusion while walking, or frequent accidents. This loss of motor function can significantly affect their daily life, indicating a serious health issue or the natural process of aging.
Persistent Lethargy or Disinterest
If your usually energetic dog has spent the past few months exhibiting a lack of interest in their toys or going on walks, has had reduced interactions with family members, and is noticeably less playful or excited, this may be an indicator that something is seriously wrong and it could be time to say goodbye.
Refusal to Eat
One of the most obvious signs that your dog is ready to cross the rainbow bridge is that they’re no longer eating. They may be regularly ignoring meals that they once would have devoured and are experiencing rapid weight loss. These worrying signs may be accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting.
Terminal Illness
According to CodaPet, some of the most common terminal dog illnesses include cancer, congestive heart failure, and chronic kidney or liver failure. If your dog has been diagnosed with one of these things and is visibly suffering due to disease progression or is showing decreased enjoyment in life, it may be time to say goodbye.
Inability to Walk
There comes a point where you have to decide whether the quality of your dog’s life has declined enough to let them go. Severe mobility issues, painful movements, and not being able to walk without dependence on aids like harnesses or carts are all signs.
Uncontrollable Pain
If you notice that your dog is in uncontrollable or unbearable pain and medication is proving ineffective, this is another sign. Constant discomfort or a decrease in normal behavior due to pain are also symptoms to watch out for.
Life-Threatening Injury
Just like in humans, at times, an accident that causes a severe, life-threatening injury cannot be recovered from. While your dog may survive a surgery, they could suffer from complications from their injuries or the quality of their life may be severely impacted. When this happens, it could sadly be time to say goodbye.
Increased Irritability or Discomfort
“Many dogs show agitation as a first symptom of illness or if he is older and developing symptoms of arthritis,” as per Wag. If your dog is in noticeable discomfort when touched or moved or shows increased irritability in previously calm situations, this may be another sign.
Breathing Problems
Dogs facing the end of their lives may struggle with breathing difficulties. This distressing sign, often accompanied by a chronic cough or labored breathing, can severely affect their quality of life. In any case, respiratory issues might be symptomatic of underlying health conditions, so it’s vital to consult a veterinarian for guidance.
Reduced Grooming
As dogs approach the end of their lives, they may neglect grooming. This could include problems like incontinence or a decreased ability to stay clean, suggesting discomfort or a lack of energy. Reduced grooming is a sign that your dog may be struggling with serious health issues, so keep an eye out.
Mood Swings or Aggression
Has your dog been exhibiting uncharacteristic aggressive behavior? Have you noticed sudden changes in their mood or temperament, or a decrease in their usual friendly behavior? If so, be sure to take them to the vet. Combined with other signs on this list, it may unfortunately be a sign that it’s time to say goodbye.
Poor Bladder and Bowel Control
A decline in bladder and bowel control can be a significant indicator of a dog’s deteriorating health. Issues like in-house accidents or a noticeable change in bathroom habits may stem from various illnesses and are important to consider when assessing their quality of life.
Decreased Alertness or Responsiveness
Slower reactions to everyday stimuli, reduced attention to surroundings or events, and difficulty waking or staying alert are all heartbreaking signs that your dog may be approaching the rainbow bridge. As always, a visit to the vet can help you determine what to do.
Drastic Weight Loss
Significant weight changes in dogs, particularly a loss, are a serious concern. A rapid decrease in body weight, especially if not associated with a change in diet, can indicate health issues or a diminished quality of life. It’s a sign that warrants immediate veterinary attention.
Loss of Vital Bodily Functions
When dogs lose the ability to perform basic functions like urinating or defecating, have a physical inability to move without assistance, or have total dependence on their owner for basic needs—this isn’t the quality of life you want for them.
Continuous Nausea or Vomiting
Signs of nausea in dogs, according to PDSA, include “lip licking and swallowing, dribbling more than usual, restlessness and pacing, and a reduced appetite.” This, or constant vomiting, may indicate distress related to digestive issues. If your dog isn’t able to eat or drink enough to sustain themselves, this is another sign it may be time to say goodbye.
More Bad Days Than Good
A vital consideration to make when deciding whether or not to put your dog down is the ratio of good days to bad. If your dog experiences more days filled with pain, discomfort, or illness than days of happiness and health, it might be time to assess their quality of life more critically.