Warning Signs a Dog Is Dying

It is important to learn the warning signs a dog is dying to protect your pet's health and well-being. Sometimes a dog becomes ill unexpectedly or a chronic illness takes a turn for the worse. Recognizing the warning signs of death can help you save your pet's life. In other situations, learning these symptoms can help you provide a terminally ill or elderly pet with the love and comfort that he deserves in the final stage of life.

There are times when your otherwise healthy dog becomes suddenly ill and you are uncertain whether a trip to the veterinarian is necessary. During these moments, you may also wonder if a medical problem requires emergency care or a future, scheduled appointment. In general, if you ever have a question about whether your dog needs veterinary care, it's a good idea to call the veterinarian and ask for advice. However, there are certain medical signs that require immediate veterinary care.

The following medical problems require emergency veterinary attention:

• Dog ingested or may have eaten something poisonous
• Obvious distress
• Dog is unconscious
• Dog is in pain
• Dog has trouble breathing or has stopped breathing
• Choking (For a dog that is choking and unable to breath, you may need to remove the object yourself, if possible. Call the veterinarian for instructions.)
• A wound that requires stitching and is losing blood
• Black, tarry stools
• Dog was bitten by a wild animal
• Dog has not urinated in 24 hours and seems unable to

These medical problems require veterinary attention within 12 to 24 hours:

• Suddenly drinking more water and urinating more without obvious cause
• Dog cannot urinate
• Dog cannot pass stools
• Blood is present in the stools or urine

This list is meant as a general guide. If your dog is experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms, contact your veterinarian right away to determine when your dog should be seen. These symptoms of illness are serious and require veterinary attention to prevent them from becoming potentially fatal conditions. Getting prompt veterinary care can often save a dog's life.

If your dog has a terminal illness, you may need to care for him at home during his final days. Here are some of the common signs that a dying dog is declining:

• Excessive fatigue: The dog is always sleeping.
• Extreme lethargy: A dog has limited to no movement and no interest in moving.
• Limited to no appetite: He shows no interest in food or water. When he does eat, he often cannot keep food down.
• Problems swallowing: The dog has trouble swallowing and needs assistance to eat and drink.
• Frequent vomiting: He frequently vomits even when he has not eaten recently.
• Frequent diarrhea: He has diarrhea more often than normal stools.
• Incontinence: A housetrained dog may be unable to control his basic bodily functions and be unable to wait to potty outside.
• Lack of coordination: The dog appears less coordinated, clumsy and unsteady on his feet.
• Confusion: He may appear confused at times in his normal surrounding.
• No interest in surroundings: He seems to lie around and shows little interest in the world around him.
• Twitching: The dog may twitch or shake at times.

Each dog experiences dying differently, and some dogs may not exhibit every symptom listed above.

After your dog is diagnosed with a terminal condition, you may have many questions for the veterinarian about how to best care for your pet. Here are some questions that can help you learn more about how to care for a terminally ill pet:

• How can I encourage my dog to eat and drink?
• How can I keep my dog comfortable at home?
• At what point do any of his symptoms require veterinary attention?
• Is it in my dog's best interest to remain at home until he passes away naturally?

In many cases, a pet owner can care for his dog at home and keep him comfortable for the remainder of the pet's life. However, a veterinarian may recommend euthanization for a dog who is obviously suffering and in constant pain. Talk to your veterinarian about what is best for your dog's specific situation.

Here are some ways to comfort your pet:

• Provide a warm and quiet place for your dog to rest comfortably. Carefully monitor interactions with other pets and children who may try to play roughly with your dog.
• Feed your dog food and water by hand. He may not eat or drink much. Feed the water with a medicine dropper, if necessary. Hand feed small amounts of food to him periodically throughout the day.
• Pet your dog and talk to him. Reassure him that everything is okay and that you love him. Even though it is difficult, try to be calm and soothing to your pet. He can pick up on your emotions.
• Place waterproof pet pads close to your pet if he cannot go outside. You can also have him wear pet diapers, if more comfortable.
• Keep your pet clean and comfortable. If he soils himself, clean him with a sponge and gentle pet shampoo. Pet wipes are also appropriate between sponge baths. Brushing your dog's fur can keep your dog clean and may be soothing to him.

It is difficult when you recognize the warning signs a dog is dying. Take comfort in the fact that your loving attention and care do help your pet feel better. He knows that you love him.

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