Knowing the right time to say goodbye can be incredibly difficult. At RESTVET we understand that pets are members of the family and letting go can feel almost impossible.
When making such a heartbreaking decision, it is important to remember who you're making the decision for, your pet. Many pet owners wish for a natural passing. One in which their pet falls asleep one night, and simply doesn't wake up again. Unfortunately, this is rarely a reality for most pets without some level of suffering.
Many owners may consider their pets to be coping well as long as they are still eating and drinking and not actively crying in pain. However, it is important to remember the difference between a poor quality of life and suffering.
Deteriorating quality of life may involve
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
Signs of anxiety/distress at times
Suffering may involve
No longer mobile without assistance
No longer interested in food, only eating very small amounts, or not keeping food down
Disinterested in surroundings
Anxious/distressed most of the time
Quality of life can certainly be subjective; however, it is important as pet owners who care to prevent suffering of our pets as much as possible.
Many owners find they regret having held on for as long as they did. When you see your pet's quality of life deteriorating it is a good time to consider a conversation with a vet about euthanasia.
As our pets only advocates it is always kinder to say goodbye a day early than even a minute too late.
​
If you're feeling unsure about this important decision, consider booking a Telehealth appointment with one of our vets to discuss your pet's individual circumstances.
