Understanding your dog’s quality of life and the compassionate choice of euthanasia

Written by: Nomi Berger, published author and GRRMF volunteer

When Is It Time to Say Goodbye?

Putting your dog to sleep is sometimes the only way to ease your pet’s pain and suffering. As heartbreaking as that decision is either for you alone or for you and your family, it’s one that grants your cherished canine companion a peaceful death. Euthanasia is derived from the Greek words eu (“good”) and thanatos (“death”) which literally means “a good death.” In ancient times, the term referred to a peaceful or painless death brought about with dignity.

Veterinarians are the primary professionals offering this service. But in order for you to make an informed decision, begin by voicing all of your concerns to your vet. Then ask for a copy of their “Quality of Life Scale” so that you can monitor your dog closely and score the questions, ideally over several days for comparison.

Assessing Your Dog’s Quality of Life

Your dog’s quality of life — or the success of their current care — can also be assessed by considering the 12 categories below, each scored from 0 (worst) to 10 (best):

1. Hurt: Pain, discomfort or mobility issues
2. Hunger: Appetite, weight loss or difficulty eating
3. Hydration: Thirst, dehydration or difficulty drinking
4. Hygiene: Matted fur, skin problems or difficulty grooming
5. Happiness: Interest in activities, affection or responsiveness
6. Mobility: Difficulty walking, running or playing
7. More good days than bad: Overall wellbeing and positive experiences
8. Eating and drinking: Ability to eat and drink normally
9. Elimination: Control over urination and defecation
10. Sleep: Restfulness and comfort during sleep
11. Cognitive function: Alertness, awareness and ability to learn
12. Social interaction: Bond with family, friends or other dogs

Other Important Considerations

• Breathing: Can your dog breathe normally? Breathing difficulties are a critical concern.
• Physical and financial ability: Be realistic about your ability to provide your dog with all of the necessary treatments, medications, and care they require now and in the future.

Score the questions above, couple it with the scores from your vet’s “Quality of Life Scale” and have a frank discussion with your vet. Then, look long, hard, and above all, honestly, at your ailing dog. As much as it pains you, imagine the pain they’re in, and know that in your heart of hearts, your beloved pet is counting on you to honor your mutual love by setting them free.

Planning for a Peaceful Goodbye

Once you or you and your family have opted for euthanasia, your vet will assist you with the final decisions and explain the procedure to ensure it’s as peaceful as possible for you and your dog. Although you can choose between having the service at home or at the clinic, in-home services can provide a comforting and familiar environment – both for you and your precious pet.

Ask your vet about the process, the sedative protocol and what to expect during the procedure. Decide on whether you want a home euthanasia or one at the clinic, and ask if a quiet, comfortable room is available. Plan the final moments: think about what will comfort both you and your pet most. This could include having your pet on your lap, playing soft music or reading a poem. Choose those you want present for the procedure and for saying goodbye. If you’re going to the clinic, bring your pet’s favorite blanket, bed or toy to provide them with a sense of security. Decide whether you want a private cremation (to get your pet’s ashes back) or a communal cremation. Burial options may also be available, depending on local laws.

As many families also consider in-home euthanasia, if your vet does not offer that service, visit Lap of Love at www.lapoflove.com to see if you’re located in their service area.

Choosing a Meaningful Keepsake

It is also the appropriate time to choose how you want to remember your pet. The two most popular choices, and forever keepsakes, are a lock of fur (typically enclosed in a tiny, see-through tin case or piece of jewelry) and a round, polymer clay cast of their paw print.