What Happens to a Dog as It Is Dying

Understanding what happens to a dog as it is dying can help you recognize what those outward symptoms mean just a little sooner.

The death of a beloved dog can be an extremely trying experience, but it is one that nearly all dog owners will go through at some point. Some pets die quite suddenly without warning; others are euthanized to limit suffering. Still others will experience a natural yet lingering death within the peace and quiet of their own home and family.

All of these pets' bodies go through the same dying process, albeit some pass quicker than others. In some cases, being able to recognize what is happening can give you the chance to spend those last precious moments with your canine companion.

Essentially, dying is the body's process of shutting down. This process can take weeks, days, hours or even minutes, depending on the cause of death. Here is a basic run down of what is happening inside of a dog as it nears death.

As a dog's body prepares for death, nutrients are no longer needed. The brain gradually ceases to send out hunger impulses, and this eventually causes a dog to completely lose his appetite. He will also begin refusing to drink water. Forcing the issue will not help because any food or water you may be able to persuade your dog to take will only sit in the stomach and begin to ferment. This could lead to bloating and pain.

As the heart grows weaker and beats slower, it can no longer efficiently pump oxygen throughout the lungs and blood stream. As the process continues, a dog will begin to show labored breathing as though struggling a bit for air. As dehydration begins to set in, the fluid in the lungs begins to thicken into mucus, and this makes breathing even more difficult. The dog may have coughing spasms as though trying to clear his lungs, but these coughs are usually not productive.

A dog's normal body temperature is usually between 100 and 101 degrees F. As the heart begins to slow down, his body temperature will gradually drop. He may actually begin to feel cool to the touch as death approaches.

One of the first symptoms noticed is usually a reduced ability to move. Many dogs will pick a spot to lay and then refuse to try to walk anymore. Some stiffness may be noted in the legs and spine, and the dog may struggle to change position. In some cases, a dog will experience intermittent spasms.

Some dogs begin to lose touch with the world around them. They fail to respond to their human companion's voice or touch. Others may still appear to watch what is going on around them, but they show little or no interest in what is going on. Dogs in this condition will also sleep a large portion of the time, slipping in and out of consciousness.

As muscle control gradually fades, a dog may lose all control over his bodily functions. This can lead to soiling right where he lays, and he may have little awareness that he has had an accident.

At some point, the length between breaths will begin to grow longer. This is usually a sign that the animal is actively dying and the process is nearly finished. Some of these pauses will go on for minutes until the dog is very near to death. At that point, agonal breathing usually takes over with perhaps just an occasional breathing reflex noticed over a 15 to 30 minute period. Eventually, all breathing ceases.

If the dying process was a long one, it can be difficult to recognize when the end has finally come. Look for the following signs that your pet has truly passed on.

• Complete lack of movement - There will be no more agonal breathing, and the dog won't respond to any touch or movement of his body. He will feel completely relaxed with no muscle tone at all.
• Eyes are fixed and dilated - This indicates there is no brain activity left.
• Soiling - As the muscles relax for the last time, the dog may soil involuntarily.

As a dog lays dying, many owners feel quite helpless, but there are a few things you can do to help your dog, and yourself, through these final moments.

• Try to make your dog comfortable by providing a blanket for cushioning and warmth.
• Stroke your dog gently so he knows you're still there.
• Speak to him softly. He may still be able to hear you as he slips away. Tell him it's alright to rest now.
• Keep the house quiet and keep other pets away so your dog can pass as peacefully as possible.

The death of a beloved dog can be as difficult to endure as the passing of any family member, but when you have a better understanding of what happens to a dog as it is dying, you can make those final moments as loving and serene as possible.

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