My senior dog had a stroke and lost leg use. When to consider euthanasia?

Question

My dog had a stroke three days ago. Got to a vet within 24 hours of the event. He received a steroid shot and oral steroids for four days. He is getting more alert everyday and looking good in his eyes. Gets excited when people approach him eats and drinks out of hand better each day. However, he has lost his use of his legs. He cannot sit up, walk of course or even hold himself up. He is eleven y/o. I know recover time varies quite a bit, but would like to know when we should consider euthanizi. Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered

Ann Dion, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. I am sorry that Buddy isn't feeling well and having these issues. It sounds like he has a very loving family. Recovery time from stroke can vary significantly, so if you are seeing improvements then you can keep going. I would recommend having him rechecked by a vet to make sure that his legs not working aren't due to a problem in his spine instead of his brain. Also, if he can't use his legs it is very important to make sure he can urinate and defecate, as sometimes the nerves are affected as well for these functions. In terms of when to euthanize, this is a question of Quality of Life (QOL). If you feel his 'good' days are outweighing his 'bad' days then keep going. If the 'bad' days are more common then the 'good' days then it's time to consider euthanasia. It helps to keep track in a journal so you can see the progress. Also, it is helpful to write a list of all of the things and behaviours that make Buddy, Buddy. Does he love to go for walks, does he love to eat. Is he still doing these things that he loves, or has he stopped. If he isn't doing the things that make him, him, then maybe it's time to euthanize. I would also always recommend as well having a consultation with a neurological specialist, as there may be other medications and options for Buddy. Good luck with him!

My senior dog had a stroke and lost leg use. When to consider euthanasia?

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