Published: July 06, 2009 09:25 pm      

How to know when it’s time to let go

Most pet owners and pet lovers are special people — maybe it’s due to their association with their animal companions. That said, I’d like to share a portion of an e-mail I received last week from the owner of an aging dog with terminal lymphoma. The e-mail was sent following a very tough decision to opt for euthanasia for her golden lab, with the dog’s welfare being her top priority.

“With tears in my eyes and a very large lump in my heart I elected to be with ‘Max’ during his imposed demise — kissing his forehead and telling him that I loved him until he departed this world a few seconds later. He gently, softly and peaceably relaxed while looking into the eyes of his favorite person. I’m thankful today that I had the courage to witness the totally painless passing of my friend and companion for 10 years, an act tenderly performed by a very compassionate and caring veterinary doctor and his thoughtful assistant.”

I’m glad this was a positive experience for this individual, but it may not be appropriate for the next owner who is compelled to end the suffering of a beloved pet.

The term, euthanasia, comes from the Greek words eu, or good, and thanathos, or death — a good death.

Every companion animal veterinarian frequently fields a client’s question concerning, “How will I know when it is the right time to put down my terminally ill pet?” In a few instances the answer is simple — now. But more often than not it is an incredibly difficult and emotionally grueling decision when an owner is notified their pet is obviously suffering from an ailment that is incurable. Even with the first-rate medical care available today there still are many instances in which euthanasia is the most caring gift left to give your animal companion.

Often pet owners seem to innately know when it is “time,” but simply need the objective assessment and professional assurance from their veterinarian that it is time to humanely end the life of a suffering dog or cat. The following are a few tenets for clients and their veterinarian to acknowledge when considering the “quality of life” issue: Is there a loss of dignity? Is the pet free from pain that cannot be effectively controlled? Can he or she breathe effectively? Does your pet’s condition require an extraordinary level of care that you are unable to provide? Is the condition realistically treatable? Are you keeping the animal alive for yourself or for the pet? And finally, handling chronic and progressive diseases or life-threatening injuries at times can be extremely taxing — physically, emotionally and financially.

For individuals or families who feel they could use help in dealing with the decision or the aftermath of euthanasia of their cherished pet, or experience a loss for other reasons, pet loss hotlines for grief counseling are available at these venues:

• Colorado State University — Argus Institute, 920-491-4143;

• Cornell University Veterinary Students, 607-253-3932;

• Washington St. University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 217-244-2273

Also your veterinarian probably can guide you to local groups and other resources such as helpful books and articles.

DR. WILLIAM K. FAUKS is a retired Oklahoma City veterinarian. If you have any questions regarding the health of your pet, please write to “Ask a Vet,” at 3142 Venice Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73112, or e-mail bfauks1@aol.com.