We have a Austrailian Cattle/Lab mix she is 13 years old and in poor health. Has a hard time getting up, very difficult for her to navigate even a few stairs without her backside collapsing. She must sleep 20 hours or more a day and despite eating only diet dog food for the last 5 years is carrying 20-25 pounds too much weight. In addition to all this we have experienced some job changes and are moving half way across the country. We love her but it is tough to see her this way and then to think about moving her. The Vet gives no advice, and we understand that stance. What do you all think?

This is the hardest decision for any one to make about a beloved pet. Nobody can tell you the right thing to do but many of us have faced it recently. But if she has lost all of her quality of life then I think you probably already know the answer to that question. I am surprised that your vet would not have advised you more on this based on what you describe. They certainly can't make your decision for you but if there is nothing else they can offer to make her life better, then they should at least be honest about it.

no one can tell you if you should do it or not. but moving and job changes are no reason for putting a dog down, so i wish you wouldnt have put that in there. but her situation she's in does seem rough, so think about it. and put yourself in there situation.....but then again maybe she wants to live and you putting her down is taking away a life that they want.


also if this is the "family dog" then consider what your family thinks about it too. sit down with them and talk to them about it