My senior dog is declining. How can I improve her quality of life?

Question

Hello, I have a 12 yr old lab who is showing her age. She has swelling, hip dysplasia, reluctant to get wet (and being lab it's odd) ,she has started shedding excessively and her skin is flaking. I give her supplements but they don't seem to help anymore. Is it time to start thinking about euthanizing her? Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 12 years and 10 months old | 100 lbs

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

I think you should take her to your veterinarian for a geriatric exam including blood tests, then sit down with your vet and have him tell you all that is in need of treatment. Arthritis can be made very bearable with NSAIDs or pain medicine, Skin problems could be a hormonal problem or she may just need some Omega 3 fatty acids added to her diet (or feed a good quality senior diet). The swelling concerns me, you did not say where the swelling was. If it is abdominal swelling there may be a tumor or liver problem. Once you know her overall condition you can decide with your vet what is necessary to improve her quality of life and whether it is time to let her go.

My senior dog is declining. How can I improve her quality of life?

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