Quote (Hobo @ Mar 4 2013 06:40am)
I've had my dog since i was in elementary, we've had her for around 12 or 13 years now. A golden retriever's typical lifespan is around 12-15 years.
Since she was our only pet until just months ago when we rescues an abandoned cat, she has become emotionally attached to all of us, like a family member.
Now, the days aren't so bright for her. She looks tired, you can see it in her eyes... she seems lost lost... and sometimes it seems like she is partially blind or deaf.
Sometimes she doesn't notice you, or looks at you like you are a stranger, and now she doesn't even respond when you call her name several times.
She isn't even able to go downstairs anymore, she would fall and someone would have to carry her back up - and she's a pretty big dog.
She used to be able to get into the back of the jeep by herself, but now, we would have to carry her or put her in the kennel and lift the kennel into the jeep.
Throughout the day, she has trouble walking, and recently she has had a tendency to fall while walking around the house or just falling into her food and water bowls while eating or drinking.
We have talked amongst each other several times about euthanizing her, and it is a hard subject to think about, but we all know that she isn't going to get better from her current health.
Every time we talk about it though, it seems like she has found new life and doesn't seem as tired for a while... and it just makes us feel worse about even thinking about it.
Every day, I wake up and check the dog, because I'm afraid that one day I'll come upstairs and she won't be breathing anymore... and another fall down the stairs could possibly be her last.
So I guess my question is, how would you justify yourself about euthanizing your dog that you've had since you were a kid, and how would you deal with it afterwards?
It is totally personal.
I think that the little bit of senility and lack of certain sensation we experience as we age is all normal.
It is tough to see the creature you love suffer so, but this is your time to give back. Think about all of the good times - be grateful for the moments you've shared in its life and be there for it.
I am sure there were days when she would wait eagerly for you or try to take care of you, now that she needs you, be there for her.
Give her attention, love and your time.
Maybe you can put her bed on the main floor so she doesn't need to go up stairs?
If she is in pain, it would probably be best to put her down, but otherwise you can still provide all of the comfort she needs!
