Dying Dog Symptoms

Significance

• Because a dog's lifespan is much shorter than a human's, it is imperative that all dog owners know what signs to watch for in their dying pet so they can make the end as comfortable as possible for their loved one. It is in a dog's nature to hide pain and discomfort until most illnesses are well-advanced, so pet lovers are often confronted with life or death decisions without being emotionally or mentally prepared. This can be even more devastating if the death of the animal is a result of trauma.

Symptoms

• Some symptoms of a dying dog can be similar to---or an exaggeration of---the symptoms of the disease that is killing it. These may include uncontrollable vomiting and diarrhea, low energy level with an unwillingness to get up and an inability to eat food or drink water. The animal may show signs of ataxia (an inability to control its limbs) and become severely dehydrated. The dog can become weak and unable to control its bowels and bladder. When trauma is the cause of death, shock symptoms such as a slower heart rate and lowered body temperature may result. The dog may have excessive bleeding, and its gum's mucous membranes may become pale and unresponsive. As death nears, the animal can begin having muscle seizures with spasmodic breathing and gasping for air and may become unconscious or comatose.

Time Frame

• Acute symptoms of dying are those that come on suddenly---and the time frame from the onset of symptoms to death can be anywhere from immediate to a few days. With chronic symptoms, the dog has been sick for quite some time, and the signs of illness continue to worsen over time. When symptoms can no longer be controlled or contained by veterinary medicine, the animal's body will shut down, and the dog will die.

Considerations

• Owners need to consider how to make a dog as comfortable as possible as it dies. Good palliative veterinary care is necessary to relieve the dog's physical pain and other symptoms of dying. The dog may need help to eat or drink and may have to be carried outside to relieve itself. If the animal is unable to move, soft blankets covered in doggie diapers can provide an adequate resting place. Dying dogs still need attention from their owners, so petting and rubbing them can give them comfort.

Warning

• Pet owners must often make the heart-rending decision when, and if, to euthanize their dog. Consulting with the animal's veterinarian can give caregivers some idea of the dog's pain and comfort levels. The vet may also be able to provide the dog owner with information that can alleviate any guilt they may hold over having to make this difficult judgment.