My senior dog is in pain and can't walk. Is it time to say goodbye?

Question

my beagle is 13, back legs don't work. slip disk repeatly over 5 years as taken its toll. not able to walk/get around for the past 6 months. Limping on the front now. Bowel movements are fairly reg but half the time he's going in his bed. Groans and shakes like he's in a bit of pain when hes moved. So my question is and I'm feeling guilty asking, is it time to bring him in to be put down? Pet's info: Dog | Beagle | Male | neutered | 35 lbs

Ana M, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Dexter. When discussing quality of life with owners, I like to have objective questions that you can answer to guide the decision making process. When a dog is elderly with a chronic condition, you can expect the pet to have bad days. However, the good days should outnumber the bad. The pet needs to have enough mobility to get to his food and water independently and to be able to go to the bathroom. He needs to still have the desire to eat and drink. His pain to be reasonably well controlled. Finally, he needs to have some joy in his life. It may be different from in his younger years, but he should still enjoy things. I know this is an extremely difficult decision, but I hope this gives you some information to consider. I cannot say without evaluating him myself, but I suspect the time is near based on what you have described. I hope this gives you some peace.

My senior dog is in pain and can't walk. Is it time to say goodbye?

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