We have a 13 year old greyhound who we adopted 7 years ago and who we love to bits. Her mobility started to decline about 6 months ago and her walks have been getting gradually shorter and shorter during this time. Unfortunately she fell down the stairs 3 weeks ago (she was spooked by a car alarm and tried to escape upstairs) and landed on her rear with her hind legs up near her ears. She was obviously really hurt and crying out in pain. My DH had to carry her to her bed. We took her to the vet who gave her some painkillers and told us that her left hip joint is very weak. She has improved a bit but has not managed to walk any further than about 100 yards down the road before she starts whimpering. We have now stopped walking her and she can just about potter around the garden although she is limping quite badly and struggles to get up from lying down.
I am beginning to wonder if we might have to make the difficult decision about whether it is time to let her go. When do you know? I would hate to think she is in constant pain although she is still eating well and seems to enjoy her food.
I am heartbroken. Her sparkle seems to have gone and I can't remember the last time she looked happy and wagged her tail.
Please no judgement. She is our first dog and we don't know what to do for the best. The vet has not suggested any further treatment options.