What to do?

[ann hodnett]

My 16 year old dalmation/lab mix has lost control of his bowels and has become completly incontinent. He is senile and has alot of trouble getting up. I LOVE MY DOG! Though, I am not sure I can take another day. This is the most difficult position I have ever been in. He does know to go outside and then come inside, to get a treat, then, promtly poops and pees on the carpet
On a lighter note, He does" The Poop scoot Boogie" and "Winkles when he walks"(to the tune of "Whistle while you work").
I have bought diapers, but has failed miserably!
Any input would be be greatly appreciated!

WHAT TO DO?

 

[KISH7374]

That is a tough question. The best way to answer it is would you want to suffer in the same way. I had tgo go through this about 4 years ago. It was one of the toughest decisions I have had to make but it was the right thing to do. I feel your pain!!

 

[kitlit]

CoverUp, I've said it before on this site and I'll say it again--not to be trite, but because I truly believe it:

Sometimes, the greatest gift you can give your sweet pet is to love them enough to let them go.

I don't know the whole story, obviously. I don't know what his energy levels are like, or if his attitude has gone downhill. But, from what you say about having trouble getting up, it sounds like he's in pain. And, being senile, he may not really realize how much discomfort he's in. It may well be time to have "the talk" with your vet, and consider the option.

My heart breaks for you, because it's never an easy decision, and 16 years is longer than a lot of people have had their children. I pray you strength to deal, no matter what decision you make.

 

[bluemtnfriend]

So sorry. We went thru this two years ago with Minnie our 15 year old Jack Russell. Your vet will be your best advisor. Just know that you have loved this dog and he'll always be a part of you.

 

[Lynnie]

Prayers for you and your dog!

 

[Beach Runner]

So sorry, coverupdesigns.

Our darling Mocha, a miniature poodle, had Cushing's disease that made her have constant diarrhea. She was treated by a veterinary internal medicine specialist in Atlanta. We just couldn't put her down. We papered the laundry room from rolls of constructor's paper, and just re-did it every day (or as necessary). We bathed her every day, and tried to spend quality time with her after baths. At first it was hard for her to get used to being in the laundry room because she had always slept in bed with us, spooning with me with her head on my pillow. Finally she got dehydrated from all of the diarrhea, had to be hospitalized with IV fluids, and died at the vet hospital. When he called me with the bad news, I fainted and fell on the floor in my office.

That being said, I just don't see how that would work with a big dog -- too much poop. I assume that you don't have a fenced-in area outside?

Tough call. I will pray for you and your "baby" as you deal with these difficult times.

BTW we still have the dimensions for cutting the constructor's paper in the drawer in the laundry room. Can't get rid of it.

 

[nodilberthere]

FROM FRIEND TO FRIEND

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.

But really, love is knowing
When your best friend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.

So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.

The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.

That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner 'til the end.

Please, understand just what this gift,
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.

You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.

So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.

Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.

And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.

I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young dog once again.


Hugs and good luck to you. When the time is right, you will do the right thing. ♥

 

[Diane4145]

I have been there and it's tough!

My ex husband's 14yr. old Dachshund started swelling all over and got to the point where she had to be carried outside, to do her business. I knew that she'd led a beautiful and loving life and that the humane thing to do, would be help her get to heaven! My ex couldn't do it, so my son and I took her, to the Vet. It was very sad and we cried, but, we focused on how she would be joining a son that I'd lost 15yrs. earlier, at the age of 10 months. They would be running and playing and in a much better place, than us! I am always rescuing and trying to save animals! I know that the day will come, when I have to do the same for my 10yr. old Yorkie, Twinkie! My prayers are with you, in doing the right thing, for your baby!