My senior dog has kidney failure. When is it time to say goodbye?

Question

My gorgeous boy Busta has been diagnosed with kidney failure. He's 16 and a jack russell. Has been to vet and had iv drip which helped a bit but is going downhill. However us still eating, happy to go on walks, takes himself in and out for toilet and upstairs. My husband wants him to be pts this week, but I feel it's too soon - if he stopped eating etc I would do the right thing but don't think it's now - would appreciate advice pls. Pet's info: Dog | Airedale Terrier | Male | neutered | 16 years and 6 months old | 12 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Poor Busta, and poor you! Deciding when it's time to let a pet go is extremely difficult. I work for a home euthanasia company, and I frequently face this dilemma with my clients. Oftentimes, they are ready to go before we are ready to let them go. I suggest making a list of five things Busta loves to do. If he isn't doing at least two of them, then his quality of life has declined to a point where euthanasia should be considered. I would also keep an eye on his weight, as he can still eat but may lose weight anyway, and that should be something to take into consideration as part of his quality of life. I would not necessarily wait until he stops eating, as that will mean he is quite sick, and you don't want him to reach that point where he's feeling so awful he's no longer eating. Putting an animal to sleep is a great gift, you are letting them go without any more pain and they pass peacefully. As I said, it is a really tough decision to make, and I would make that list of five things he loves to do. If you'd like to discuss this further, I'd be happy to consult with you. Just select the "consult online" button under my answer. Again, I'm sorry :-(

My senior dog has kidney failure. When is it time to say goodbye?

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