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My senior dog has an anal tumor. When is it time to say goodbye?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | neutered | 11 years and 2 months old | 95 lbs

Ben, a 12 year old lab. diagnosed with anal tumor protruding from rectum. Horrible smell coming from the area. Vet said he's in pain but does not act like it. recommended surgery, but cannot afford cost and no biopsy done. He eats and drinks (drinks a lot lately). Arthritis in rear legs. He get around but slow and not good up steps. I don't want to put him down if I don't need to. I'm just looking for advice. Thank you!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 11th, 2018

I'm sorry Ben has an anal tumor! Your vet is right that he will be pain, even if he doesn't act like it. Dogs can be very stoic about pain, and he is also showing you he is in pain from his arthritis based on the fact that he moves around slowly and can't get up stairs well. It's a hard choice to make as to when it's time to say goodbye to a beloved pet. I work for a home euthanasia company, so I face this question all the time with my clients. I recommend making a list of five things Ben loved to do. When he's not doing at least two of them, then his quality of life has declined to a point when humane euthanasia should be considered. Also consider his quality of life if he starts having trouble passing feces due to the size and location of the tumor. In the meantime, I would discuss giving him pain meds with your vet. This may improve his quality of life in terms of getting around and help with the pain from the tumor. If you'd like to discuss things further with me, you can request a consult for more in-depth help. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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