My dog has cancer, eating less, bloody stool. When to say goodbye?

Question

Hi, our dog has cancer. He has been pooping bloody diarrhea for over a month now. He eats less and less. I have switched him to homemade food but he starts to decline even that. I know about the good days VS bad days ratio, but how do I know if he wants to go... He still enjoys playing, running, and car rides. I am worried what could happen if he is underweight, or that he could develop anemia if he keeps pooping dark blood. What should we do? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 12 years and 1 month old | 28 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

First off, I'm so sorry Jack has cancer! I work for a home euthanasia service, so I face these questions with my clients all the time. I tell them to make a list of five things their dog loves to do. If he isn't doing at least two of them, then their quality of life has declined to a point where euthanasia should be considered. Another factor to consider with Jack is his appetite. If he stops eating all together, he will slowly be starving, and that will be quite painful for him. I wouldn't let him get to that point. Oftentimes, our dogs are ready to go before we are ready to let them go, and they hang on longer for us. Dogs are quite good at hiding their pain, especially if they see their owner is distressed. I would make that list I suggested, keep trying to get him to eat, and have blood tests done to see if he is getting anemic. This may help you decide when it's time to let him go peacefully. I understand it's hard to say goodbye when he's still running and playing, but it may be better to let him go sooner rather than later as he will leave you happy and in a good place, rather than extremely ill and weak if that makes sense. Only you can decide what's best for him, and I'm so sorry that you have to face this decision. I'd certainly be happy to consult with you if you'd like to discuss things further, just click the "consult online" button under my answer. I hope I've been helpful.

My dog has cancer, eating less, bloody stool. When to say goodbye?

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