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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.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

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 :(

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