One of my three dogs has lost his appetite. He is at least 15, but he used to have a voracious appetite up until a month ago. It’s steadily declined, and now he’ll barely eat. I adopted him as a senior dog. He’s had a great life. His original human loved him but had to go into a nursing home. I would take him for visits. But as he got older and became blind and deaf, she said it was too hard on her to see him. I am torn on what to do. Dogs are so stoic. It’s hard to tell if they’re in pain unless it’s intense pain. I wish he could give me a sign if he was ready to go. I’d rather put him down while holding him than have him die alone while I’m at work.
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Take him to a vet, if possible. Get professional advice. It could be something treatable, it may be time to consider euthanasia. Many vets will allow you to be present, but you may not be able to hold him. The process requires two people, generally they are both employees. Please (and I already know you understand this) don’t let him suffer. It is an incredibly difficult decision for you, but also the kindest thing you can do for him, if it’s even necessary. Might just be something minor. I used to work in a shelter, and this was one of my jobs.
Thank you for your reply. I had anothee senior dog that I adopted and I had to have put down. She was about 14. I was able to be with her. She was bigger so I couldn’t hold her. I will take him to the Vet tomorrow, but I pretty much know what he will say. He’s a great Vet, but he’ll let me know it’s time. But there’s a part of me that feels guilty if there’s a chance he still has a strong will to live – not just survival instinct. I agree with you 100% about not letting them suffer.
All my dogs are rescues so thank you for the work you do at the shelter.
I wish you and your pets the best.
It is very kind of you to adopt older dogs. All of my dogs have been rescues as well, they really do make the bests companions!!! I pray that strength and courage be with you.