Knowing When to Say Goodbye…The Most Difficult Part of Owning a Pet
Like many of us, I wear more than one hat. Not only am I a veterinarian at the Animal Medical Center of Mid America but, equally importantly, I’m a pet owner just like each of the clients who visit our three St. Louis area veterinary hospitals.
All of us remember the day we first met the cuddly ball of fur that was to become our treasured family pet. We welcomed our four-legged companion with arms and heart opened wide and, from that point on, assumed responsibility for their care and wellbeing. The harsh reality is that since most pets pre-decease their owners, it is likely that each of us will ultimately be faced with difficult and stressful end-of-life issues involving a treasured canine or feline companion.
There is no absolute right or wrong when it comes to decisions regarding a pet that is severely injured, terminally ill, or weak and debilitated due to old age. There are many financial, logistical, and medical factors to be considered, and family members should discuss these openly among themselves and with their veterinary care team.
The following observations may be of help to you as you reflect on your decision:
- If an animal is suffering unremitting pain that is not controlled by medication, it is inhumane to prolong the pet’s suffering. It is important to discuss this situation with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
- The term “quality of life“ is difficult to define, especially when considering a pet that can’t verbalize. As the individual most familiar with your dog or cat’s daily routine, your observations regarding appetite, energy levels, and overall attitude are extremely valuable in helping to decide whether your pet is still living a quality life.
- There are very few times that any of us make life and death decisions. It is an awesome responsibility and can be overwhelming. Helping people through these situations is both the hardest and, at the same time, most important service your veterinarian can provide.
- In my 37 years as a veterinarian, I have made the decision to euthanize one of my family’s own pets on four separate occasions. Although each time it was a terribly difficult and painful decision, I am convinced that it was the most loving and humane course of action possible, affording each of my dogs some remaining degree of dignity.
Remember that your veterinary team is there to help keep you and your pet happy and healthy! Don’t hesitate to call if you have any questions or concerns about your four-legged friend.
And last but certainly not least, I hope that this has been a totally academic discussion and that you and your beloved pet continue to enjoy one another’s company for many years to come!!
Steven N. Schwartz, VMD
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