by Betty Carew

Created on: October 10, 2009   Last Updated: October 11, 2009

Your pet has been such a big part of your life. Over the years he has told you when he is happy. He has told you when he was hungry or needed water; he has told you when he wanted to go outside. He told you when he wasn't feeling well, so he will tell you when the time is right to let him go. It is important to know when it's time to euthanize and he will tell you this, when the time is right.

Signs that the time is near

Your pet will start by showing you signs that the time is near when he stops doing the very things that is required for life. He may stop eating or drinking. It may take a little more effort for him to move so he will spend most of his time sleeping. The spark of life will leave his eyes maybe being replaced by pleading. If you're pet has lived a long life these are some of the symptoms that you will notice as their life whines down. Most times the ultimate decision is yours but once the quality of his life is compromised to this extent it is time to end his suffering. This won't be an easy decision, in fact it will be the hardest decision you will ever make but it is the best decision for the one you love and the one that has been so faithful.

Terminal illness

Terminal illness can take your pet at any age. If your dog is suffering from terminal illness and you have tried everything humanly possible to help make him better you have to step back and take an objective look at the situation. This may be a difficult thing to do but it won't be hard to see if your dog is suffering needlessly. This is where your compassion will take over to lead you to making the right decision. If your pet is dying will one more day be better for him or for you? You have to make the unselfish decision to let him go and be at peace. You will know by looking into his eyes that he has had enough pain and suffering. It is likely the symptoms listed above will be present to let you know the time has come.

Accidents

Sometimes we are forced into making the decision of life or death very fast, especially if your dog has been injured in an accident. You will rush him to the vets only to be told there is no hope or that he will live with pain for the rest of his life if he lives. This is a harder decision in some ways as there is no time to think things through, sometimes no time to say goodbye but it is a decision that thousands of pet owners are faced with often. You already know what must be done so you give your permission and watch him slip away. You have just made the right decision for him and an act of unselfishness that is best for your pet.

Seek help from your vet

If your vet has been with you and your pet through the years he will be a good source to help you make the right decision when it is time. The reason for taking your pet to the vet may start out by you hoping there is some miracle cure you can try one last time but your vet can help you accept the inevitable. Your vet knows that your companion has come to the end of the road and can tell you it is time to let him go. This will not make your decision any easier but perhaps enhance your understanding that you are doing the right thing. It may be the most unselfish, hurtful thing you will ever have to do but you could be giving your pet the best gift you ever gave him by releasing him from his suffering.

When the time comes look to your companion to know the time is right. This companion that has given you so much happiness and unconditional love will show you that the time is right. It is never an easy decision but one that is made out of compassion for someone you love dearly. If your pet could talk he would thank you for making the right one by knowing it's time for euthanasia.

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