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My senior dog is suffering. How do I know when it's time to let go?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | neutered | 14 years old | 5.4 lbs

My little old man is in Kidney failure and has pulmonary hypertension. He was doing great after 3 days in hospital on fluids. Just over 2 weeks later he's starting to lose interest in food again. He seems weak. How do we know when it's time to let go? My heart is breaking. I don't want him to suffer, but it's so hard to make the call.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 27th, 2018

I'm really sorry to hear about poor Memi. The combination of these two conditions are often difficult to treat and can be very disheartening. I would first recommend asking your veterinarian about any more potential treatment options and how long they think he may survive given his current condition. The decision to euthanize is extremely difficult and there is no right or wrong answer. I advise my clients to consider euthanasia when they feel like their pet is suffering so much that they don't seem themselves anymore; or just don't seem to enjoy life anymore. You will be the best judge of this. I hope that helps. Again, I'm very sorry for this unfortunate circumstance and wish the best.

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