Is It Time to Say Goodbye?

Deciding when it may be time to say goodbye to a beloved pet can be incredibly difficult. You do not have to make this decision without guidance.


We strongly encourage families who are concerned about their pet's quality of life to schedule an assessment with their primary or family veterinarian. Your veterinarian knows your pet's medical history and can evaluate their current condition, discuss whether additional treatment or comfort-care options may be helpful, and provide guidance about when euthanasia may be the most compassionate choice.


Changes in comfort, mobility, appetite, breathing, hygiene, behavior, and interest in the things your pet once enjoyed can all be important signs to discuss with your veterinarian.


The quality-of-life resources provided here are intended to help you observe and organize changes you may be seeing at home. They are not a substitute for a veterinary examination or medical advice.


When possible, we encourage families to have these conversations before a crisis occurs. Planning ahead can give you time to understand your options and make thoughtful decisions focused on your pet's comfort and well-being.

Small black dog in green sweater on cozy blanket.

Things to Consider at Home

While your veterinarian is the best person to assess your pet’s medical condition, observing your pet at home can provide valuable information to share with them.


Consider how your pet is doing in each of these areas:


Comfort — Is your pet able to rest comfortably? Are pain, anxiety, coughing, panting, or difficulty breathing affecting their day?


Eating & Drinking — Are they eating and drinking enough to maintain their comfort and strength?


Mobility — Can they get up, walk, and reach their food, water, and bathroom area without significant difficulty?


Hygiene & Elimination — Can they urinate and defecate comfortably? Are they able to stay reasonably clean and dry?


Happiness & Engagement — Do they still seek affection, interact with family, enjoy favorite activities, or show interest in their surroundings?


Good Days vs. Difficult Days — Over time, are there still more comfortable, enjoyable days than difficult ones?


Consider keeping brief notes for several days and sharing them with your family veterinarian. Changes and trends over time can sometimes be easier to recognize when they are written down. 

When You’re Concerned About Your Pet

If you are noticing changes in your pet’s comfort or quality of life, we encourage you to contact your primary or family veterinarian for an examination and guidance.


Your veterinarian can help determine whether your pet may benefit from treatment, pain management, hospice or palliative care, or whether it may be time to consider euthanasia.


If euthanasia becomes the most compassionate choice, Shepherd’s Embrace is here to provide a gentle, peaceful goodbye in the comfort and familiarity of home.

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