When letting go is the best thing you can do…

By dnp-team On Jan 22, 2011

When the suffering is too much and there is no cure…letting go is the best we can do for them.

October 18, 2010 was a black day for me as I had to put my beloved furry friend to sleep. Pattu, my pet cat, who was seven years old, was suffering from chronic renal failure which was killing him slowly. I had to make this painful decision, based on my veterinarian’s guidance.
We, as pet parents, may be faced with the decision to let our pet “go”. The question then is when is “the time to let go”. Quality of life of your pet greatly influences the decision to consider euthanasia. You may consider the following points (not a complete list) to gauge your pet’s quality of life

Pets with incurable disease and administered proper medication should be able to eat, drink and sleep comfortably without shortness of breath.
Pets should be able to control their urine and bowel movements.
Your pet should be free of severe pain and be interested in his surroundings.
Before you make this painful decision, it is important you learn more about your pet’s disease and condition and explore avenues for treatment. Talk to your vet and consult other experts. Do not prolong your decision as your pet may be suffering in the process. Euthanasia is a painless process and letting your pet “go” may be your ultimate act of kindness for him.

(Sudhersena is volunteer at the Blue Cross since 1998 and an avid animal lover who owns nine cats and three dogs. She is associated with a number of animal welfare campaigns and programmes. For further information, contact: Blue Cross of India, 72 Velachery Road, Chennai–32 or e-mail at sudhersena@gmail.com)