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My 15-year-old Maltese can't walk. What are quality of life options?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltese | Female | spayed | 15 years and 6 months old | 6 lbs

My Maltese is 15 and can no longer walk...she can eat, drink, and sleep...hubby thinks I should put her down

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on February 5th, 2019

Poor Ceecee. Unfortunately, walking is a very important part of a good quality of life. Depending on the cause of her not being able to walk, there may or may not be any remedies. You could seek out an alternative vet who specializes in acupuncture and Chinese herbs as these could help with weakness and arthritis where sometimes western meds don't help as much. Either way, I would discuss with your vet or the alternative about her quality of life and whether or not she is suffering. It is only fair to give them a humane euthanasia if they are suffering and do not have a good quality of life. I hope this helps. I know the decision is always difficult but sometimes we have to make that selfless decision if it is what is best for our pets.

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