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Dog dilemma: My old chocolate lab is showing the signs of heading down hill fast.

I went through this with my black lab back in the summer.

He’s not getting around very well. He’s confused, but seems happy.

His appetite is hit and miss. One day he won’t eat, the next he can’t get enough.

I held on to the black lab til he got so bad he was suffering and couldn’t eat, or walk. I had to have the vet put him down.

Question: Do I wait that long for this one or just do the inevitable before he suffers more?

He’s an outside dog on invisible fence………(I could never stand to chain a dog up)…..he has 2 acres here to run on, ……..of course he cant run anymore.

I don’t want to let him get as bad as my other lab did, but yet…….? See what I mean?

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Answer #1

That is sooo tuff to decide whats best…I think only you as the owner can tell if he is enjoying life or if he is not.If you think he is suffering then maybe it would be best…but if his tail wags and he is not in obvious pain then dont do it.I think you need a vet to decide.I bet a vet wouldnt do it,but if an animal is in pain or discomfort and there is no test available to see this, then why not give the dog some pain relief de-rugs and see if it improves his ways…if you saw a difference then he must be in pain…would that work ? if the dog responded to being de-rugged up by acting more normal then that would indicate a problem not age related? I honestly dont have a clue and am just throwing thoughts out…Good luck and I hope you decide whats right for him.

Answer #2

I think use your best judgement. If you can honestly tell he is still happy and enjoying life and not just you hoping he is, let him be for the while. When he is obviously in pain and suffering, then perhaps consider going to the vet. I wish I could offer more, but I know little about pets.

Answer #3

That’s ok thanks, I’ve ben down this road before and don’t wanna wait til he is suffering. I can tell he’s on his last leg………..I kinda want to put him down before it all gets so terrible..but just can’t right now because he looks me in the eye. Damb.

Answer #4

Hey, I’m sorry man. Dogs are the best. I always hate to lose them. Just us your judgement. If he seems not happy with his life put him down. Damn, that sucks.

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