My senior dog is thin and won't eat. How do I assess quality of life?

Question

I have a 13 year old border collie/Australian Shepherd mix. Her appitite and energy level is sporadic and she is quite thin. Most times I have to hand feed her to get her to eat. I have had to the vet. Her urine is diluted but her blood work doesn't really show anything. She has lost 4 lbs over the last couple of months. I live in Ohio and the winters are quite cold. She hates being in the house but does have a sheltered dog house. Do I need to consider having her put down? Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | spayed | 12 years and 10 months old

Stephanie Echols, DVM · Accepted Answer

Making the decision to euthanize your pet is never easy. I usually recommend owners make a list of all the things their pet loved/loves to do. For instance, did she used to love to eat, go on walks, play with a special toy, get tummy rubs, go on car rides, etc. Now you make a check mark on the day she does that. As well as noting her appetite and if she can go out to go potty and not have accidents. When she starts to have more bad days than good days it is a sign that her quality of life is poor. You know her best. While her blood work isn't showing any problems there could be medical problems that won't. Just know that this is an extremely difficult decision but know that you have Cheyennes best interest at heart. I hope this helps. Kisses to Cheyenne!

My senior dog is thin and won't eat. How do I assess quality of life?

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