Signs it Is Time to Put Down Your Dog

Dangerous Behavior

• Attempting to bite or attack people or other animals is a sign it may be time to put down your dog. According to PetEducation.com, you may try a behavior specialist or medications; however, if the dog is not responding, sometimes euthanasia is the best option. Although it is a difficult decision, dogs that are aggressive to other animals and people, especially children, can be too dangerous to keep. Keeping your dog in isolation to decrease the danger may be less humane than euthanasia.

Depression

• Signs of depression in a sick or elderly dog may indicate it is time to euthanize, especially if pain medications do not help relieve the symptoms. Even if your dog does not seem to be in pain, depression can be a sign of pain. According to The Senior Dogs Project, your dog may hide his pain because, in the wild and in nature, a sick dog might be killed by the pack. A depressed dog may stop eating, eat only small amounts or be lethargic. Your dog may no longer want to play, go for rides or respond to attention.

Injuries

• An inability to move normally due to severe injuries may be a sign that it is time to put your dog to sleep. Although your dog may not die from an injury, it may no longer be able to walk, get up or do normal activities without assistance. There are devices such as lifting belts and even wheelchair carts that may be an option; however, if such aids cause pain or are difficult to use due to your dog̵7;s size or your own physical abilities, putting down your dog may be the best option.

Pain

• Unrelieved pain is a sign that it is time to consider euthanasia. Pain may be caused by many problems, including age-related conditions such as arthritis, diseases such as cancer, or injuries. Signs that a dog is in pain include whining when it moves, inability to get comfortable, changing position often, restlessness, depression, and biting or growling if it fears being moved in a way that might cause pain. When pain medications do not help, or the side effects from the medications are severe, your dog no longer has a good quality of life.

Financial

• The cost of surgery, medication and treatments to keep your dog from suffering may be a sign it is time to put down your dog. If the cost of caring for a sick or injured dog is more than you can pay immediately, your veterinarian may be able to arrange payments. However, there are times when it may create a financial burden that you or your family decides is too much.