When is the right time?

Assessing Quality of Life
The decision to humanely euthanize your pet is one of the most difficult decisions you will ever have to make as a pet owner. Knowing when to make that decision can be confusing, frustrating, and emotionally draining. We understand that pets are part of your family and deserve compassionate treatment and consideration at the end of their journey. Please use the information and resources provided below to help you and your family navigate through this difficult process.
Topics to consider and/or discuss with your family.
  • Quality of Life includes your pets' overall physical and mental well-being as well as the impact on your daily life to provide the care your pet requires.
  • It is acceptable and advised that you include your financial capabilities when assessing Quality of Life.
  • Most pet parents find peace once they have made their decision and rarely feel they euthanized too soon.
  • Waiting for your pet to "pass on their own" may result in a crisis situation that is extremely stressful for your pet, you, your family, and the veterinary team.
  • When asked, most veterinary professionals will say that euthanasia is a final act of love for your pet and would recommend euthanizing while your pet still has some quality of life.
Tools to help you assess your pet's Quality of Life
  • Use the Quality of Life Assessment form found HERE.
  • Ask close friends and family members to help you. Sometimes it is difficult to see the gradual changes in your pet when you are with them every day.
  • Mark "good" and "bad" days on a calendar using a simple happy or sad face. When the bad days start to outnumber the good days, it may be time to consider euthanasia.
  • Make a list of your pets' top five favorite things to do. When they are no longer interested in or able to enjoy these things, it may be time to consider euthanasia.
  • Remember how your pet looked and behaved prior to the illness or when they were younger. Look at photos and videos from when they were at their best.
  • Schedule a consultation, also known as a "Quality of Life Exam", with your veterinarian. Although they cannot make the decision for you, they are a reliable source for a non-biased assessment.