My senior dog has many health issues. When is it time to say goodbye?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
I have a nearly 15 year old female mini dachshund. Has never had puppies. Weighs about 9 pounds, blind, and hard of hearing. Her teeth are in bad shape, with an odor that is bad. She has been diagnosed with an enlarged heart, about 10 years ago. Over the past two months she has had numerous accidents during the day and night. Up to at least to 10. I have also noticed her left rear paw. At times will give out on her, for only a few minutes. I am not sure what to do. Please offer some advice.
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on May 9th, 2017
Oh no, your poor dog! It sounds like she is in really bad shape physically. I would have her seen by a vet first thing in the morning to see if there are any treatments possible for her symptoms. If there aren't, it would be time to discuss letting her go peacefully. I know that's not something you want to hear, but it may be best for her given her symptoms. I recommend making a list of five things she loved to do, and if she's no longer doing at least two of them, then her quality of life has declined to a point where humane euthanasia should be considered. I work for a home euthanasia service, so if you'd like to discuss this further with me, I'd be happy to consult with you. Just click the "consult online" button under my answer. Otherwise, I hope this helps and you should take her into the vet in the morning.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 6th, 2017
That's always a difficult situation to be in. You really need to weigh her quality of life against the times when she isn't feeling well. If she seems generally happy, and is having more good than bad days, then enjoy the time you have with her. But if she doesn't want to do the things she's always loved, if she's very painful and there's nothing therapeutic to help ease that pain, then letting hr go and releasing her from that struggle is a very kind and loving thing to do. I've faced the same thing with my own pets and I will again. It's never easy, but when the time comes, it's the best thing for everyone.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 18th, 2018
Queenie is a beautiful girl! It's always a hard decision to make in terms of letting a beloved pet go. It's concerning that she is still in pain despite being on pain medications, and it may be that letting her go peacefully is the best option. I work for a home euthanasia service, so I face these questions with my clients all the time. I recommend looking at her quality life. You need to ask yourself if an animal who is in pain all the time has a good quality of life. Make a list of five things she loved to do, and when she no longer does at least two of them, then her quality of life has decreased to the point when euthanasia should be considered. I'd be glad to talk with you further about this if you'd like, you can request a consult with me online. Otherwise, I hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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