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My dog with kidney failure is suffering. When should I let her go?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bernese Mountain Dog | Female | 13 years old | 25 lbs

My dog has started stage 4renal failure she is sleeping at least 22 hours a day. Stopped eating five days ago drinking water only ,her back legs give way and won't take her medication she is under a vet I don't know what to do for the best

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 18th, 2017

I'm sorry Belle isn't doing well at the moment! It sounds like she is doing quite poorly, and it may be time to let her go peacefully and without further pain. If she isn't eating, she will slowly be starving and that will be painful for her. I would examine her quality of life, and if it is poor, then letting her go via humane euthanasia would be the kindest option for her. I'm sure that this may not be what you want to hear, but letting her go at this point would be a gift to her. I work for a home euthanasia service so I face this question with my clients all the time, and if you'd like to consult with me further on this, just click the "consult online" button under my answer. Otherwise, I am sorry you are facing this, and I hope I've been helpful :-(

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