I think my old boy is going.

[NickiFury]

He's a miniature schnauzer, almost 15. He's been in heart failure controlled by medication since March. He's stopped eating, still drinking though, co- ordination going and stumbling but still managing to get out for short walks. He is urinary incontinent. He's not happy to see us, no tail wagging etc. Is it time? I don't know. I'm scared that I am making the decision too soon. We are seeing the vet at 11.40, she will know won't she?

People said I would know when the time was right but I don't, he's still doing stuff that they said he would stop doing like drinking and going for short walks. I am so scared of getting it wrong and sending him off top soon.

[bluetongue]

Sounds like it's time. I don't personally believe that they 'tell you'. Maybe some do, but in my experience you have to come to that decision yourself.

So sorry, I know how hard it is.

[bluetongue]

Just to add, I let my darling cat go when she stopped eating. It's no life for an animal.

[ExitPursuedBySpartacus]

So sorry.

It is often said 'better a day too soon than a week too late' and I really truly believe that.

If he is not being a dog, then it is time to hold his paw as he passes.

[NickiFury]

He's gone. I took him to the vet an hour ago. The vet was brilliant she was very sure that now was the right time and told me why she thought it was in her opinion and when she said it I could see it clearly. It was very peaceful. He just relaxed and that was it.

I had him for a third of my life, right from a puppy. He was such a fabulous boy and he gave us everything.

[Fanofjapan]

So sorry Nicki x

[Gingersstuff]

I'm so sorry for your loss Your boy is gorgeous.
We'd always said about our old golden retriever ( who really was a life support system for a stomach) that when he stopped eating that would be him ready to go. He was 12.5 and on strong steroids for a condition called CDRM when one Sunday, he just lay down and wouldn't eat. Took him to the vet on Monday morning, he went in under his own steam but after the vet had delivered the shocking news that he'd gone into heart failure and we were discussing possible treatments for him - he just heaved this great big sigh and threw himself down on the floor. The vet looked at him, looked at me and said "He's telling you it's time for him to go".
I took him home, gathered up the troops to say goodbye and later that day our lovely vet came to the house and sent him off to sleep. He passed away peacefully in my arms with me stroking his ears like he loved.
It hurts like a bitch at the time but in years to come you'll absolutely know you did the very best thing for him. Big hugs xx

[ExitPursuedBySpartacus]

Lovely boy.

{{{hugs}}}

[DramaAlpaca]

Nicki I'm so sorry.

Please know that you've done absolutely the right thing for your lovely old boy.

and a most unmumsnetty for you.

[ChardonnayKnickertonSmythe]

Definitely not too soon, you made the right decision.
Sorry about your boy.

[MsAdorabelleDearheartVonLipwig]

So sorry Nicki, it's so hard isn't it? He's not struggling anymore.

[Threetoedsloth]

What a lovely boy. You did right by him- but it's such a hugely painful task. He's at peace now. RIP little pooch.Take good care of yourselves.

[imonaplane]

Very sad for you Nicki. I think you made the right decision, painful as it was. A very un - mumsnetty hug from me. x

[justnippingin]

Ahhh Nicki, I'm sorry...he's lovely.
You did right by him.

[paddypants13]

for you.

It's horrible to go through.

[ArmyInRed]

Im so sorry for your loss, he looks gorgeous.
Be kind to yourself and remember that he had a lovely life with you, you've done the right thing.

[EasyToEatTiger]

Big hugs. Be kind to yourself. They call it the Final Act of Kindness

[MintyChops]

Ah he's gorgeous. So sorry. Xx

[user1471453908]

Big hugs for you. it sounds as though you made entirely the right decision.I appreciate this doesn't make it any easier. DH and I were in the same position a year last December with our 13 year old poodle. Losing her still hurts but I have her lovely successor lying at my feet as I type.

[Wordsaremything]

I am so sorry. Mine is still eating well but I know it can't be long.
What a lovely boy.
I'm so sorry. Take care .