Old dog peeing/pooping, weak legs. Vet suggests euthanasia, need second opinion?

Question

I have a 13 year old Lab and I've noticed for a few months my dog Jake now pee's and poops on his bed even though he never use to do that. His back legs give out and can't feel them like he use to but surprisingly he can still run. Yesterday the vet told me he has a neurological issue but didn't do any tests on Jake and prescribed gabapentin and a med similar to ibuprofen. he told me he doesn't think he has good quality of life now that we should euthanize him now should I get another opinion? Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered

Lauren Jones VMD · Accepted Answer

I'm sorry to hear about Jake's condition. Neurologic conditions are generally assessed during a physical exam by turning a dog's foot over to see if he can place it appropriately, assessing tail and anal tone, reflexes, etc. Unless an infectious condition is suspected as an underlying cause, there isn't much other testing that can be done in a general practice clinic. For some conditions, a referral to a neurologist for an MRI or CT can be helpful to obtain a more definitive diagnosis. Since your vet is concerned about pain and Jake's quality of life, he prescribed gabapentin, which helps with neuropathic pain as well as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication which will help with overall pain and inflammation. Decisions about a pet's quality of life and considering euthanasia are very personal. If you need a second opinion to feel at peace with making this decision, you should get another opinion. However, if you also feel that Jake's quality of life has declined and has not changed with his medications, perhaps it is best to take your vet's advice. I don't know how helpful this is, but ultimately, you know Jake better than we vets ever will. Trust your gut.

Old dog peeing/pooping, weak legs. Vet suggests euthanasia, need second opinion?

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