When Is the Right Time to Let Your Pet Go?
Both online and in daily life, I have a lot of regular contact and interaction with various attorneys throughout the United States.
I do not know why, but it never ceases to amaze me on the number of professionals that are also pet owners and lovers.
Although the focus of our writing usually is to provide for the planning for your pets after your demise, many times, unfortunately they will die before us.
A recent post from a fellow attorney outlined his agony over the impending death of his long time companion and he questioned as to when and how he would know the correct time to let his pet move on.
The responses were both informative and supportive of his unenviable position.
I thought I would share some of them with you, as many of us will ultimately face these same decisions.
"Are we causing him pain (he does not show pain) and discomfort by keeping him with us? Are we keeping him alive for us (it is very hard to let these darn little creatures go) and am hurting him in the process. He, like all living things, want to live, chase squirrels and play... but has a finite time among us. As set in the comment, he is not showing pain but is very lethargic. The vet said we will not get a "bright shining light from heaven" to tell us it is time. I feel that, as long as he can get up, eat, eliminate, enjoy short (veryshort) walks he stays, but are there other thoughts…"
Art
"I'm with the "keep him with us until he's in pain" camp. Contrary to what the vet said, I believe you WILL get a sign that it's time."
Marilou
"If there is no quality of life for the animal, then frankly I think it's unfair to simply prolong its life so you don't have to do something as painful as euthanizing him. Trust your gut...you'll know when the time is right both for you and him. Don't wait too long though. It's not fair to either of you. I hope this helps. My thoughts are with you."
Scott...
"You'll know when the joy is gone and the pain is in control. Not a bright shining light, just one morning you'll know. Listen to your heart. My only advice: stock up on a pain prescription, so that you can ease the pain at the end if your vet is not readily available."
Rebecca
"I agree with Marilou. Having lost many dogs over many years, they each told me when life just wasn't fun anymore. I never even had a doubt - they spoke eloquently in their silent appeal to stop the pain. They each went to sleep with their heads in my lap as I stroked them. It is a dog lover's final act of love to let them go. Even though you cry a river every single time."
Sharon
"I know believe that I will always know when it is time. You, as the owner and companion, will know. There is a connection between you and your loved pet and he will let you know."
Sheila
I have no conclusions to offer with this.
No clear cut rules to follow.
I only provide some suggestions from other pet owners on how to approach this difficult time of indecision and pain in your life.
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