Deciding When to Put an Old Dog Down

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Out 13-year-old Lhasa Apso, Sneakers, is on his way out. It's heartbreaking to know that, after all these years, there will soon be a time when he will no longer be my husband's #1 companion. Last week, when Dave (my husband) came home from work, Sneakers was having a very bad day. He couldn't walk. Every time he tried to get up his hind legs gave out on him. Dave was devastated. He thought it was time to put Sneakers down. He didn't want his dog suffering. Dave called around to get prices for putting Sneakers to sleep and having him cremated. It was a horrible day. However, Sneakers' time hasn't come yet. I'm not sure if he heard all the talking about putting him down or he sensed Dave's devastation, but Sneakers is now back up and doing his best to walk. He isn't in pain. He eats good. He still goes outside, although he has many accidents in the house (something that turns my stomach and I wonder when it will stop). Friends and family have said to just put him down. Our hearts tell us he's not ready. Is it hard taking care (and putting up with) an old dog? Yes, it sure is. But it's hard taking care of any elderly body, whether it's a dog or a parent. I firmly believe that Sneakers will let us know when he's ready to go. He doesn't appear to be suffering at all. He just has a hard time walking. Some days are better than others. Have you ever had to decide when to put an old dog down? How did you know it was time?