What To Consider When Putting Your Dog Down At Home: Denver Area Mobile Pet Euthanasia

Are you thinking of putting your dog down at home? Denver area veterinarian Dr. Amy is here to help you through everything from making your decision to carrying out your wishes. We understand you have lots of questions about your pet’s health, whether they’re ready to let go, if euthanasia is the right choice, how it’s done, and so much more.

Here are a few questions to consider as you make the right decision for your best friend.

Is Your Dog Still Self-Mobile?

Can your dog stand up without too much effort? Do they still get up and greet you at the door when you come home from work? We all know the joy puppies and younger dogs show when they see you after even a short time apart. But the older your pup gets, the harder it becomes for them to move easily. 

Once you get to a certain age, those old joints don’t feel as strong as they used to. If your pup struggles to get to their feet and shuffles along, looking like each step is an effort, they may be in pain, but they won’t let you know. They’ll struggle on to please you.

Does Your Dog Still Enjoy Life?

Do you still see excitement in your dogs' eyes? Does your buddy still enjoy playing with his favorite toys, digging in the yard, or running around with your kids? 

Everyone slows down as they age, and none of us want to admit it, but if you notice a lack of interest from your pet where there used to be fun and excitement, pay attention. Indifference to what they used to enjoy can be a sign there’s something going on that you can’t see. Your pooch may need a quality-of-life examination.

Does Your Dog Still Have a Healthy Diet?

Does your furry friend leap up at the sound of food in their bowl and wolf it down like someone else is after it? Or do they seem disinterested, not caring if the cat (or even the toddler) gets to it first?

Lack of interest in food, when at one time they were ravenous and couldn’t seem to get enough, is another indication that there may be something going on with your dog that needs checking out.

Can Your Dog Still Go Outside To Bathroom?

Here’s a big one…if your dog has frequent bathroom accidents in your home when they’ve been trained to go outside their whole life, then maybe a veterinarian visit is in order. It’s a sign of incontinence and should be checked out.

Just like some elderly humans lose the ability to control their bathroom habits, the same thing can happen to dogs. With smaller dogs, you may be able to handle doggy diapers for a while, but with larger dogs, that temporary or short-term solution may not be so convenient.

If your dog has trouble going to the bathroom, there’s another reason for an examination. Pet euthanasia isn’t punishment, it’s actually more of a gift if your dog is suffering in silence. Don’t be afraid of putting your dog down at home. Home is where the heart is.

Is Your Dog Fearful Of Traveling Or Of Veterinarian Clinics?

Many dogs have a sixth sense when it comes to visiting the vet’s office. Maybe they sense that you know they won’t like it and get fidgety and nervous from your vibes. 

This one isn’t cause for alarm, but if you suspect something is wrong and want your pet checked out, you might prefer to opt for an in-home visit from a mobile veterinarian. Why stress your dog when you don’t have to?

Can Your Dog Still Breathe Easily?

Obviously, breath is essential to life. If your dog is struggling to get the oxygen they need to simply exist when they’re just lying down, there’s a serious problem. If your pup gasps for air when trying to stand, or they have to stop and rest often on their way outside, you need to think seriously about their needs.

Making the decision for at home euthanasia for dogs is far from easy, but when you can see your dog, who was once full of the joys of spring, struggle to draw in breath or stand up, I think you know which choice to make.

Putting Your Dog Down At Home: Denver And The Foothills

I’m available by phone if you’d like further information before making your decision. I’m happy to talk with you about your dogs' condition and advise you on your best course of action.

Should you decide euthanasia is your kindest option, we can schedule a visit for putting your dog down at home. Denver area and foothills residents, please reach out to me. I truly care about both you and your pet.

If you have more questions, please visit my in home euthanasia FAQ page. I want you to be completely comfortable with your decision.