Rear leg weakness in dogs

[Bethers]

What you haven't said, is he happy, sad, miserable? Only you can know how he's feeling, which could go a long way towards making a decision.

[VickieP]

I'm sorry you're facing this decision, it's never easy when things look so bad. Hopefully someone can offer some other ideas, but the only thing I can think of would be to ask the Vet's office or some rescue groups if they know of any people or organizations the can fund the medical care needed.

Like Laura said, we support you, because we know you make your decisions with love.

[WickedLady]

You can give him aspirins for the pain and inflamation. I wouldn't give up on him yet unless he seems to be really going down hill.

[catzmom7]

Bear is sleeping a lot. When he wakes up, he is often happy, but he is just a happy guy, in general. His back legs seem to be getting weaker, but I also wonder if his pain meds are making him nauseous. If so, then that is why he will not eat.

[BarbaraRose]

I second the idea to check with local rescue groups about more affordable care or help with finances. Some places will let you make payments too.

Decisions like this are SO difficult! Follow your gut and what ever you decide, will be with love and he will know that.

[catzmom7]

This morning he is in even worse shape. Now he will not even drink water, eat, and the short walk out to the yard took forever and seemed to just wear him out totally. Guess it's time to do the right thing, and let him go. This is so hard!!!!

[IrishIroamed]

Dee -

So sorry to hear that Bear is not improving and that you have to go through this. I recently had to make the same decision for Molly (in February - 3 months to the day today) because of back leg problems (fast growing tumor, hip dysplasia, and other knee problem). She was also still alert and happy and I still miss her every day.

If you haven't read it, Google "A Dog's Plea". It may help you make a decision, but it will still be hard. In Molly's case, I said she was too good of a dog to make her suffer anymore.

My heart is breaking for you and Bear. Fur kids are irreplaceable.

((((hugs)))) to you both.

[Azusateach]

I'm so sorry you have to let him go.

When I had to put one of my kitties down I asked my vet how he did it. His reply was that it was the hardest part of his job, but certainly the most important.

We've been given the awesome, awful privilege and responsibility of caring for our furry babies. With that comes helping them move on to that Rainbow Bridge, no matter how hard it is for us.

You pup is asking you to help him out. Do it with the knowledge that you've done everything you could to give him the very best life.

My prayers are with you today.

Laura

[retiredhappy]

I'm so sorry that Bear isn't getting better. My last gift to my Lab Buddy, was to hold him while the vet gave him the shot. It was quick and painless but the hardest thing we ever have to do. After a few weeks, in his memory, I adopted a little guy, Baxter, who needed a forever home instead of living in a cage.

[catzmom7]

I feel so bad..... I feel like I am betraying him. He is sitting here on my foot. Has not touched food since yesterday, will not drink water since yesterday, his trip out was very very hard for him. I hope and pray that I am doing the right thing.

[WickedLady]

It is so hard but it is the right thing to do when they are suffering.

[Bethers]

I feel so bad..... I feel like I am betraying him. He is sitting here on my foot. Has not touched food since yesterday, will not drink water since yesterday, his trip out was very very hard for him. I hope and pray that I am doing the right thing.

You are definitely not betraying Bear. You are doing what is best. Be there to hold him through it. And big hugs to you.

[catzmom7]

It was done today at 3:40. Heartborken. I hardly know what to do with myself. His dog dish is still in the dish drying rack and his bed is sitting empty on the floor beside mine.

[VickieP]

I'm so sorry you're hurting, HUGS.

[BirdbyBird]

((((( hugs )))))). From another that understands how hards these decisions are and how empty the house feels and it is hard to explain how a heart can be so full and so empty all at the same time.....