DDog is 15, a mixed breed, possibly collie/spaniel cross. He was a rescue at 6m.
He's been really fit and well all his life but of course slowed down a lot over the last few years. Now he's quite frail and I'm wondering when people make the decision to put older pets down.
DDog now:
He spends up to 22 hours a day in one of his beds/baskets.
He has 1 or 2 short walks (15 mins) per day. He has to be lifted in and out of the car. He can potter in the garden by himself. He can't manage steps up or down very well (lack of confidence and back leg power).
He poops in the house a few times a week, usually in his basket when he doesn't wake up quickly enough. This distresses him.
About once or twice a week his back legs collapse and he has to be helped back up onto his feet. This hasn't happened when he's alone yet but it would be awful if it did as he gets really panicked.
He has arthritis but it's well controlled with medication.
He is deaf and can't seem to see very well.
He barks to be let out at 5am 3-4 times a week. Sometimes he forgets the way back to the door and we have to go searching for him (we have front, back and side gardens).
He's generally content and loving but gets anxious when DH leaves the house.
Has anyone had an old dog like this?