Posted by Halton/Peel PLSG (Stephanie)
on 7/11/2009, 9:58 pm, in reply to "Older dogs...."
99.245.164.213
Hi Suzan,
First of all, let me say that Jippy and Sushi are incredibly lucky to have such a loving mom like you!
It sounds like Jippy is one tough little guy! He has definitely had some challenges and I'm glad you switched vets after hearing about that incident with the eye ulcer.
You are right that one of the worst parts of being a pet parent is that they can't tell us what's wrong. They are completely dependent on us to do what is in their best interests and to give them the love and care that they need. You said that Jippy isn't in pain and that he's still happy and enjoying himself. My best advice to you is that you'll know when and if it's time to say goodbye to your dear friend. I can tell you from personal experience that when I had to have my 18 year old dog Rocky (he was half Shih Tzu and half Yorkshire Terrier) put to sleep a year and a half ago, I knew it was time. His quality of life just wasn't there anymore. He was so sad, had difficulty walking, was deaf and almost totally blind and he just looked so tired. He would also have episodes where he would pace around and act like he didn't know where he was. My vet told me that he most likely also had some kidney problems as well. I remember the thought kept coming up "is it time??" and finally one day I sat down with my little boy and had a good heart to heart talk with him just telling him to give me a sign that he was ready. He just looked up at me with these darling big brown eyes and I knew. The sad reality is that you'll never know for sure if you made the right choice, many people live with the "what if's" afterwards... what if he had more time left in him, etc.
Your vet will be able to tell you if he is in pain but you are the one that knows your baby the best. Just take his quality of life into consideration and listen to your heart.
Please don't feel crazy for sharing so much with us... that's what we're here for! We are more than happy to listen if you need to talk. Please keep us posted on your dear Jippy. We would love to know how everything is going.
You know where to find us if you need us!
Thinking of you and your babies...
Stephanie
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