How to recognize a dying dog

A checklist of physical symptoms

“I guess you don’t really own a dog, you rent them, and you have to be thankful that you had a long lease.” –Joe Garagiola

Photo by stickywickit

What is your animal’s level of pain? If pain is the only issue, pet pain medications may resolve the problem.

Does the animal whimper?

Does pain appear to limit his ability to move, or to do the things he used to do?

It’s important, though, to know your animal beforehand: Is he a crybaby or is he stoic?

For an animal, the ability to move about is a much more important quality-of-life issue than it is for a human being. The inability to move could be a sign of pain, or it could simply be a disability.

Is your pet mobile?

Does he follow you around as usual?

Does your pet still have a capacity for enjoyment? The absence of a capacity to enjoy the family and life itself might be an indication that it is time to help your animal die.

Does he enjoy doing what he usually enjoys doing?

Does your dog enjoy eating?

Does he wag his tail?

As long as Lucy demonstrated her typical joy for life, author and psychologist Rob Pasick was determined to enjoy her. The book Conversations With My Old Dog is the result of the choice to treasure what he knew would be his dog’s last few months. As they went through their typical routines together, Rob noted his thoughts on aging, mortality and the meaning of life.

In the end, Lucy’s simple wisdom remained to comfort him; not only after her death, but through the death of his father as well. Conversations With My Old Dog is sure to bring you comfort, as well.

Conversations With My Old Dog is available through this web site and at Amazon.com.