How to Know When It’s the Right Time for Euthanasia
Euthanasia is a blessing in that we can prevent suffering in a pet when we know they are nearing the end of their life. Sometimes it is an acute illness that has prompted the discussion about euthanasia and other times it is a chronic slow decline in the pet’s quality of life. In either case, this is a difficult decision that should be made with the help of your veterinarian. The quality of life can be assessed in many ways and there have been some ways to try to quantify this with quality of life scales to help a family struggling with this decision.
Here are links to some helpful guides when you are struggling with this decision:
This article below includes Dr. Villalobos’ Quality of Life Scale:
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=495196
The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center Quality of Life Scale: