Old dogs- when do you know it’s time

So sorry for the bad news, well done for being so brave and putting your beloved pet first. Enjoy the beach, add to your happy memories and be safe in the knowledge that you are doing the right thing. X
 
Coupled to a huge dose of kindness and understanding, what sort of response would help you reach a decision?

I'm really sorry, it's a bitch and we all know that, but for how long will you draw out the inevitable, or would you prefer that I said nothing?

Alec ……..

I don’t understand what you mean Alec? He’s booked in to be put PTS on Friday
 
4faults, I'm sorry to hear this but pleased that you at least got blood results that helped you make a clear decision.

I think you had phrased it so delicately in your previous post that it may not have been clear to everyone what was booked for Friday.

In most cases I don't think one can know for sure when is best. I don't think people can generally know for themselves let alone know for another animal. But, within some tolerances and with obvious limits, it also doesn't matter precisely. These last few days are important for you but it is the last 10 years which are important for your dog - you've got a horrid day coming up but the 'hard' part is actually the decade of caring you've already done. So, feel proud too.
 
the blood result helps to confirm your planned action for friday so will help you come to terms with the decision. hope he enjoys his beach trip and all goes ok.....
 
Thank you for your kind words and thoughts everyone. We went for a lovely walk on the beach this morning and this afternoon he went to sleep at home in the arms of me and my OH. I’m absolutely devastated and feel like a piece of me is missing but I know it was the best thing for him
 
Well done and total commiserations in equal measure 4faults - I've been there earlier this year and it is horrible, however much you know it is the right choice :( Thinking of you tonight, well done for being so brave xxx
 
It'll feel horrible for a while. I sat looking at photos of our old boy for a while after he was pts last week, which I found helped. But we all grieve differently.
Sending you hugs.
 
I’m so sorry for your losses as well Levrier and OldTrout, it’s horrible. I said goodnight to him last night before I suddenly realised again
 
I’m so sorry for your losses as well Levrier and OldTrout, it’s horrible. I said goodnight to him last night before I suddenly realised again

I'm still doing that too, looking for him and talking to him. Can't really say anything more than really sorry for what you're going through and be kind to yourself.
 
pleased that he enjoyed his beach trip and went to sleep peacefully with his family present. it is the worst thing about our dogs and i still miss my lurcher and it has now been 16 months, it gets easier but doesnt hurt any less....hugs ....
 
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