Symptoms of Dying Dog

The symptoms of dying dog are critical for the pet owner to understand so that he or she can provide a comfortable death for his canine.

It is hard to prepare for the death of a beloved pet, one that has been like a member of the family for many years. However, since the life of a dog is much shorter in years than the average human life, pet owners know that one day they will experience this kind of death.

Perhaps your dog has shown signs of aging. He is not as agile, has grown blind, deaf, or has trouble with incontinence. Perhaps he has cancer or a disease that cannot be cured. You have been to the vet many times. The last days of your dog are here.

With the guidance of your vet, you may learn that it is in the best interest of your pet to euthanize him. If this is the case, once the drug is administered, death will be imminent and quick. Before this happens, make sure you speak softly to your dog and tell him what a faithful pet he has been to you and your family.

If your dog is sick, without a cure, you may have to watch him die naturally at home. As he declines, you may notice many of these symptoms.

• Excessive sleeping
• Limited movement
• Decrease in appetite
• Slower heartbeat
• Incontinence
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Runny eyes
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Tail between his legs
• Lethargy
• Less coordinated than usual
• Shaking or twitching

Take time to make sure your dog is taken care of as he dies. Give him a good death. As you continue to watch for the many symptoms of dying dog, call your vet to make sure that what your pet is experiencing is normal. Ask questions. Your vet may give you some pills to ease your pet's restlessness, or to alleviate any pain. The following suggestions will help as you prepare for your dog's last days.

• Keep him well hydrated even if he cannot get to his water bowl. Give him swallows or sips of water through a medicine dropper.
• Even if he isn't eating as much as he used to, provide food. If he cannot get to his bowl, bring it to him. Help him take some bites. Mixing dry dog food with water will make swallowing it easier.
• If he is unable to go outside to urinate, surround him with waterproof pads. Doggie diapers are also a possibility.
• Make sure he is comfortable.
• Gently rub his fur and talk to him.
• Clean his ears or brush his fur.

Sometimes there is not an extended period of time when a dog is dying. Death is sudden and quick. When dogs have heart attacks, ingest something poisonous, or are hit by vehicles, death occurs immediately. This sudden death is a big shock to all who love the pet. Take time to go over what happened with family members. Do not place guilt or blame on anyone.

When your canine dies, you will encounter all that is involved with dealing with a pet death. There will be sorrow and an empty feeling each time you are at home. Know that it is perfectly normal to miss your pet. You will see his leash, water bowl, or favorite chew toy and feel sadness. If you have children, make sure they understand that their dog is going to die. Helping children come to terms with the death of a pet is important. After death, allow them to hold a funeral or memorial service, should they wish to do so. Find creative ways to remember your furry friend. Speak often of him in fondness..

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