My old dog is sick with fluid. How to ease her pain at end of life?

Question

My dog is 15 years old she has had cancer for around 2 years and she is to old to undergo any surgery, over the last couple of days her stomach has gone very big and she hasn’t eaten I took her to the vets and they said it was fluid as it was a yellowy colour and give her medication to try to reduce any fluid unfortunately the medication didn’t work, I know its not going to be long before she passes but I’m seeking some information on what I could do to help her in her last couple of days as she. Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Female | 20 lbs

Ann Dion, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I am sorry to hear about Tilly. If her abdomen is filled with fluid, unfortunately aside from draining the fluid out (which has a lot of side effects as well, and is a very very temporary fix), there isn't much you can do. At this stage you have to assess if she is hurting, and if it would be more kind to her to euthanize, so that she doesn't have to go through the pain. Signs that it is time include not wanting to eat, not drinking, not getting up and moving around, not wanting to go on walks, not wanting her favourite toy, not responding to things that normally made her exicted. Signs of pain include tremors/shaking, tensing when you touch her belly, panting, increased breathing rate, increased heart rate, not eating, not moving, not acting herself. If you are seeing signs of pain, or discomfort, or signs that she isn't acting herself, then her quality of life is poor, and helping her out of discomfort with euthanasia needs to be considered. It is a very difficult decision to make, but just keep in mind that although it is difficult for us, removing the pain is one of the greatest gifts we can give to our furry friends, that have given us so much love throughout their lives. I am so sorry that Tilly is so sick.

My old dog is sick with fluid. How to ease her pain at end of life?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

Share