by Dr. G. A. Anderson

Created on: February 27, 2010   Last Updated: March 30, 2010

A 14-year-old Cocker Spaniel, adopted from the SPCA, had to be put down very recently because he lost his ability to walk without help. He had multiple other health issues associated with old age. He was in extreme pain the last few days of his life, obviously hurting, but continued putting on a good front. A younger Cocker Spaniel in the home did not understand and was becoming resentful of the attention the older dog was getting, thereby worsening her already difficult disposition. She was taking her frustrations out on him despite his edging closer to the end.

When you purchase or adopt, or otherwise somehow come by a pet, of course you intend to be a responsible owner. You realize there are inoculations that must be kept up, registration updates if pedigreed, licensing in most locations of the US, and regular check-ups and visits to the vet. Teeth must be cleaned, furry coats must be attended to, and above all, a good, nutritious diet must be provided. Clean, sanitary living and sleeping conditions are necessary, and for a dog's happiness as well as everyone else's, obedience training should be sought. These are the common expectations we all have when we make the decision to take an animal into our lives and into the home as a pet.

Above and beyond these basics, a yard should be fenced in and secure so there is ample room for exercise without the animal "escaping," neighbors' safety and well-being must be considered, and the amount of time and energy you have to expend on the animal is a must-think-about-in-advance concern. If you have doubts about any of these things, you may need to reconsider pet ownership. It goes without saying that children and grandchildren need to be completely secure around your animal(s) so that no accidents occur.

How will you take care of your pet's needs if you have to travel? Even a whole day away is a consideration if you have dogs. Cats can pretty handily take care of themselves with self-feeders, self-waterers, a kitty door, or a litter box. They are self-sufficient to a great degree. But if you have a dog or two (or more,) and you cannot take them along where you're going, you will need pet sitters or you will need to board them.

So as you can see, there are a tremendous number of aspects to responsible pet ownership. But something many people do not take into consideration is the end of the pet's life. It is an eventuality, but it is inevitable. Sometimes pets are victims of irresponsible owners and are not cared for

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