Our pets cannot be with us forever, and sadly, we sometimes have to make the difficult decision about whether it’s time to let them go.
This is never an easy choice. I’ve had to face it myself multiple times. In one year, I had three elderly pets that needed to be put to sleep at different times, and each experience was heart-wrenching. People often ask me, "How do I know when it’s time?" or "How can I tell if my pet is ready?"
The biggest thing I tell pet owners is that you know your pet better than anyone else. You’ll notice when they aren’t feeling well. However, it’s important to remember that dogs, in particular, will often try to rally for us, masking their pain. As pet parents, we sometimes have to interpret the subtle signs they’re giving us.
A colleague once gave me a valuable tip: think about five things that define your pet—traits that make them uniquely them. For example, with my dog Olive, her love for eating was a defining trait. If Olive had ever refused food, I would have known something was seriously wrong. She also loved following me everywhere, sitting on my lap, barking when someone came to the door, and playing with her toys. These were the things that made Olive… Olive.
When Olive was sick, I monitored her closely. She still wanted to eat, interact with us, and play with her toys. She was still herself. However, when a pet begins to stop engaging in these defining activities or starts withdrawing—like lying on their bed all day without interacting—it can be a sign they’re not feeling well.
With cats, the signs can be even subtler. A deviation from their normal routine, such as hiding or retreating from their usual social behavior, can indicate something is wrong. Cats are often very private about their pain, so it’s essential to watch for these small changes.
It’s particularly challenging when dealing with chronic illnesses. Unlike sudden illnesses, where the severity is obvious, long-term conditions can make you second-guess yourself. You might think, "They seemed better today. Am I making the right decision?" If you’re having these internal debates, it may be a sign that it’s time to start considering what’s best for your pet’s quality of life.
As your veterinarian, I’m here to guide you through this process. My role is to provide you with honest advice about your pet’s condition. I will always tell you if I believe your pet is suffering because my priority is their well-being. However, the ultimate decision rests with you, and it’s important that you find peace with whatever choice you make.
Remember, you don’t have to navigate this alone. I’m here to help you every step of the way, ensuring that your beloved companion receives the compassion and care they deserve.