My dog has kidney failure. When is the right time to say goodbye?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 6 years and 4 months old | 150 lbs
My dog was diagnosed with renal failure two days ago. Creatinine was 9, BUN 159, breath smells HORRIBLE, has not been eating for the past three days but actually ate her breakfast this morning. I have an appointment to have her put down. Other than not eating, she still seems fairly happy. She obviously is not herself, but I just don't know if it's the right time or if I should give her a couple more days.
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 11th, 2020
I'm so sorry the Lexi is having this issue. Unfortunately kidney failure cannot be "cured" so you are only prolonging the inevitable. My opinion is that it is always best to euthanize before they are suffering too much. It is better to do it on a good day. It is more for us wanting to have a few more days with them when we prolong it. You need to do what's best for her. I'm really sorry that you are going through this :(
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 18th, 2017
I'm sorry Belle isn't doing well at the moment! It sounds like she is doing quite poorly, and it may be time to let her go peacefully and without further pain. If she isn't eating, she will slowly be starving and that will be painful for her. I would examine her quality of life, and if it is poor, then letting her go via humane euthanasia would be the kindest option for her. I'm sure that this may not be what you want to hear, but letting her go at this point would be a gift to her. I work for a home euthanasia service so I face this question with my clients all the time, and if you'd like to consult with me further on this, just click the "consult online" button under my answer. Otherwise, I am sorry you are facing this, and I hope I've been helpful :-(
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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