Mary Allen
No dog has to suffer! But when is euthanasia the right decision?
Legal Basis
Most dog lovers turn to their veterinarian in this situation. But what is the doctor’s assessment based on? The law only allows euthanasia as “reasonable cause killing.” For example, the euthanasia of a dog whose disease could be treated at a reasonable financial cost to the “reasonable pet owner” is prohibited. The same applies, of course, to the euthanasia of completely healthy dogs, for whatever reason. But apart from that, the advice of our veterinarians is probably based very heavily on their respective experiences and – last but not least – on their attitude. Chronically ill animals, which may suffer from age-related problems (incontinence, arthrosis, or the like), pose particular problems for pet owners and veterinarians.
Reasonable Pain
What is reasonable for the animal? What are its owners? The fact that our dogs are getting older, it starts to pinch here and there, and it’s getting harder and harder to jump onto the couch is a blessing they deserve. At the other extreme, the quality of life and suffering for a dog that can no longer get up and stand on its own feet to meet its most important needs are seriously questioned. In between, it is important to weigh the assessment of pain, life perspectives through various therapies, and the possible burden of any side effects.
Here it is advisable to obtain two or three different veterinary expert opinions if necessary. And it is not uncommon for the question to be asked to oneself: Are you willing to allow your companion to live a dignified and largely pain-free old age, despite sometimes extensive care and often almost reproachful looks from others? Even veterinarians cannot make this decision for the owners.