Deciding on Euthanasia for Maxwell: A Tough Choice

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Maxwell, a dog diagnosed with advanced bladder cancer, is facing a difficult decision regarding euthanasia after showing symptoms like dripping urine and blood. The tumor has grown significantly, and while the vet suggested trying an anti-inflammatory treatment, there are doubts about its effectiveness. Although Maxwell does not appear to be in discomfort, the discussion emphasizes the importance of assessing his quality of life and recognizing when to make the compassionate choice to euthanize. Many participants share their personal experiences with similar decisions, highlighting the emotional struggle and the need to prioritize the pet's well-being over personal convenience. Ultimately, the consensus is that making this decision is incredibly challenging, but necessary to prevent prolonged suffering.
  • #51
rootX said:
I hope your home doesn't look empty.
My house is tiny, and it looked "close" when both my wife and I were home (before we got Duke). But if Duke wasn't here, it would look empty. Pets are such a huge part of our lives.

Our favorite neighbors have an older male pit-bull/German shepherd mix that is an absolute sweetie. Max has a crush on Duke, and though Duke doesn't reciprocate romantically, he loves his gay friend and is always ready to play and roughhouse and when they are tuckered out, they nap together. Max has sarcoptic mange (according to his vet) which is supposedly highly contagious. The dogs have such a wonderful time together that my wife and I would never think of limiting their contact, and Duke is still as healthy as can be. I can't help but wonder if Frontline and other topical treatments can help kill fleas and dog ticks, but depress the dog's immune system to the point that mange ticks can overwhelm them.

We have never used topical flea/tick treatments on Duke, and he has never had a problem. I pulled an American dog tick off him last summer, but he has never had problems with deer ticks, fleas, etc.
 
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  • #52
I wasn't able to see the pictures you posted until I got home from work (my company blocks tinypic, youtube, etc.). Very nice looking cat. It's tough when you have to let your pet go.
 
  • #53
rootX said:
I hope your home doesn't look empty.

Well, I picked up a bunch of her toys last night, also cleaned up her food and water area. It does feel a bit empty. I keep catching myself wondering where she is.

My daughter volunteers in cat shelters...I have a feeling she's going to start making suggestions about certain cats who would make good roommates!
 
  • #54
lisab said:
My daughter volunteers in cat shelters...I have a feeling she's going to start making suggestions about certain cats who would make good roommates!

I must say, it's for the best.

Get straight back into it, gain a new loving friend and make both you and the cats life better!
 
  • #55
Sad sad sad.

I'll dispatch Johnny Depp to comfort you.
 
  • #56
Newai said:
Sad sad sad.

I'll dispatch Johnny Depp to comfort you.


:bugeye:... And you're his father?
 
  • #57
RIP Miss Phoebe.

I'm sorry for you loss lisab. :frown:

I've been down the same path many times.
 

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