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Country3262 August 7th, 2023
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Hello community,


I’m faced with a difficult decision about my dog. She’s 14 years old and has been having peeing problems and is constantly drinking water. I’ve taken her back to the vet multiple times with multiple tests run to see what is causing it. Some of the tests came negative and other concluded she as a UTI. We’ve tried multiple different antibiotics but nothing is helping and I already give her shot twice a day for diabetes insipidus which means her body can’t regulate her water intake. We have even limited her access to her water bowl. But no matter what I do nothing is working.


The problem is I’m going part time and going to college and my grandma watches my dog while I’m away. My grandmother also takes care om my grandfather who has dementia. I’ve on the fence of giving up and having to put her down. I just don’t have the money to keep running her to the vet and it’s becoming to much for my grandma. How do I deal with this guilt? I feel like I’m giving up on my dog and it’s not a valid reason to put her down.

7
toughTiger6481 August 7th, 2023
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@Country3262

I am sorry you are facing this ... everyone with an older pet can understand it starts with some medical item and there is no resolution etc ... other things will develop and it becomes a big responsibility to take care of them

i think the person who has been with your dog for the longest knows signs that they might be having other issues. pets can not tell us how they feel i doubt they enjoy incontinence or other issues as the item continues past the medications etc.

At one point in my life vets used to tell you how the quality of life or distress a pet would face... anymore it seems some think with unlimited $$$$$$$$ you can prolong a life on and on. I actually have a friend who has spent more money on vet care then their own healthcare for the year.

you will know when the quality of life is to the point of ending any suffering.

HealingTalk August 9th, 2023
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@Country3262

Hi, Country!

I'm truly sorry to hear about the difficult situation you're facing with your dog. Making decisions about a pet's health and well-being can be incredibly challenging, especially when there are financial constraints and other caregiving responsibilities involved.

It's clear that you deeply care for your dog and have been doing everything you can to address her health issues. The fact that you've pursued multiple veterinary consultations, tests, and treatments shows your commitment to her well-being.

When it comes to making the decision about euthanasia for your dog, it's important to consider her quality of life. You're not alone in facing this decision, and many pet owners find themselves grappling with similar choices. Here are ideas about steps you might take to help you go through this difficult situation:

Consult with the Vet: Have an open and honest conversation with your veterinarian about your dog's condition, prognosis, and treatment options. They can provide you with information and guidance about what is best for your dog's comfort and quality of life.

Assess Quality of Life: Take some time to objectively assess your dog's quality of life. Consider factors like her mobility, pain levels, ability to eat and drink comfortably, and overall enjoyment of life. This assessment can help you make a more informed decision.

Consider Financial Limitations: Financial constraints can be a significant factor in making these decisions. While it's natural to want to do everything you can for your pet, it's important to be realistic about what is feasible within your means.

Discuss with Family: Talk to your family members, including your grandma, about the situation and the challenges involved in caring for your dog. Their insights and perspectives can be valuable in making the decision.

Address Guilt: It's common to feel guilt when faced with this decision. Remember that your primary concern is your dog's well-being. Making the choice to euthanize a pet can be an act of love and compassion when it's done to prevent further suffering.

Explore Supportive Resources: If finances are a concern, look into local animal welfare organizations or charities that may provide assistance for veterinary care. They might be able to help alleviate some of the financial burden.

Seek Counseling if necessary: This is an emotionally challenging situation, and speaking with a professional counselor or therapist can help you process your feelings of guilt, sadness, and loss.

Keep coming to the Grief & Loss community to share your feelings and keep us updated about how you are doing.

Ultimately, the decision to euthanize a pet is a personal one, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Trust your instincts and prioritize your dog's well-being. Remember that your dog's happiness and comfort are at the heart of your considerations, and whatever choice you make, it's a reflection of your care and love for her.

I wish you find some moments of pease in the middle of this terrible situation, that you can solve it the best possible, and that cope with the grief that might come in the future from this.

All the best!

Marcelo

ghettosmurf September 4th, 2023
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My baby (dog 13yrs old) was losing mobility, became incontinent and after some thinking and much crying.. i made the painful decision to help her sleep.. on Friday she went peacefully.. it was heartbreaking but I love her and had to do right by her as she always did right by me. She helped me through many painful and dark times..


do whatever you feel is best for you and your furbaby..

GloriaDavis10 March 17th
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I understand this is a difficult situation. It's crucial to prioritize your dog's health. Have you considered exploring options like online pet medication services? I know from my own experience because my dog suffered from a similar problem. Despite visiting various veterinarians and specialists and trying different clinics, the effect wasn't long-lasting. But once, a vet told us to try  pet medications without prescriptions, and it was really helpful for us! I wish your dog will get better as soon as possible, and make sure to consult with your vet before making any decisions. Take care.
Kristynsmama March 19th
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@Country3262

i was recently faced with the decision to put an older dog to sleep and it’s always a hard decision.  The question I asked myself was will vet care improve her quality of life or will her quality of life continue to decline.  My dog was already having difficulties walking and I decided that her quality of life would only continue to decline.  Although it was hard and I still miss her, I don’t regret my decision.

maryglo May 30th
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Dealing with guilt over your dog's condition is tough, but remember, you're doing your best. Have you considered using services like Pet Prescription Without Vet to manage her condition more affordably? It might help ease your burden.

Jewelmoon17 June 19th
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Hello everyone,  my tuxedo Cat died due to an illness just a couple of days ago.  I witness his pain and his last breath.  Now I keep relieving the scenario each day.  I can't stop crying if I look at his picture or the places where my Cat would always stay.  Remembering him makes me cry.  I think I had cried a bucket of tears already but I never ran out of tears.

I want to accept that he is gone from me.  But it's so hard.  It's so hard to function doing the daily life normally.  Cause all I can think of is my Cat.

I have regrets that I could've done more to save his life. :(

If i hear the word, goodbye or never, I just cry.

Before his last breath, I told him I love him.  When he passed I said goodbye.  But it hurts me more and I feel the house is so empty without him.

I just want to be okay.  I just want my life to be normal again.  But I can't let go of the pain of losing a friend.  He is not just a Cat to me.  He is my baby, my friend, my pal.  Now he is gone.  

Why does God take him away?  So many questions that is unanswered.  The pain in my heart is growing so much. The loneliness deepening. :(