Sleeping helps your dog save energy.
Making your pet comfortable often provides you with an important role, even if you cannot prevent the dog from dying. A dog rarely has to suffer if the owner and veterinarian work together to provide the medication, environment and comfort the dog needs. Although watching your dog die may cause sadness, it often helps when you know you gave your pet the best care during those final days.
Instructions
1. Talk to your veterinarian about pain medications, including narcotics, anti-inflammatory and steroid drugs, as an important part of caring for your dying dog, according to veterinarian Guy Hancock. Ask your veterinarian about other methods, including acupuncture and massage, to help control your dog's pain.
2. Ask your veterinarian to demonstrate evaluate your dog's pain level by feeling for tight muscles or the presence of heat or inflammation in affected areas.
3. Request medications for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite that may help your dog feel more comfortable.
4. Prepare an area for your dog to sleep and rest away from other pets or disturbances. Watch other dogs for signs of aggression toward your dying dog, as some dogs may attack or kill a sick dog. Separate your dog from other family pets if your dog appears stressed when around them.
5. Offer your dog healthy foods and adjust meals to more frequent feedings if necessary, since your dog may need smaller meals to avoid nausea. Discuss dietary concerns with your veterinarian if your dog has difficulty eating or its medical problems create issues -- such as oral cancer. Use soft food or blended food, served at room temperature, to help make it easier to digest and more palatable.
6. Take your dog out for activities it shows continued interest in or enjoys, such as short walks or car rides.
7. Watch your dog for any signs of side effects from medication or new symptoms and contact your veterinarian with concerns.
8. Talk to your dog calmly and avoid crying or acting upset around it to prevent stressing your dog. Help manage your own emotions during this time by talking to your veterinarian, friends or a counselor, advises pet bereavement counselor Judith C. Stutts. Give your dog physical contact, such as petting and grooming.
9. Observe your dog for signs of pain, including behavior changes, depression and refusal or reluctance to move, advises PetMD. Contact your veterinarian for additional or different pain medication if your current medications do not alleviate the symptoms.
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