When to Let Your Pet Go

Anyone who has ever loved a pet knows how easy it is to think of the pet as a member of the family.  When a well-loved pet suffers, the entire family is affected.  One of the hardest things about becoming attached to a pet is seeing your pet suffer from old age or terminal illness.  You may even have to decide if you will help your pet die through euthanasia. 

The decision about how to handle a pet’s final illness or failing health due to old age is highly personal.  While some people choose to care for a pet until nature takes its course, others believe that the pet’s quality of life should be taken into account.  When an animal is subjected to pain and suffering that will eventually lead to death, many people feel that euthanasia is the most humane option.  For example, if your pet is incontinent, your pet may be unhappy or uncomfortable. You also may not be able to be present at all times to tend to your pet’s sudden needs. Furthermore, suffering is not a necessary element for poor quality of life. A pet which is heavily sedated may not even be aware of its surroundings. Finally, the high cost of treatment and care, in terms of both money and time, for a terminally ill pet may also be a factor when deciding if it’s time to let your pet go.

“Pawspice” is an emerging movement in veterinary medicine.  Like hospice care for people suffering from terminal illnesses, the goal of pawspice is compassionate end-of-life pet care.  Dr. Alice Villalobos is a leading advocate of pawspice.  She has created a Quality of Life Scale to help pet owners make decisions about the care of a terminally ill pet and pet euthanasia.  If you are faced with the decision about when to let your pet go, speak to your veterinarian about your pet’s quality of life or consult Dr. Villalobos’ guide.

Catie W.
February 18, 2011