OT- Some1 called Humanes society on us!

[lilybrooke14]

This is a horrible blanket statement, but I'm going to make it anyway. I have worked with and for several vets, and although some of them are wonderful, caring, and compassionate, some of them seem to think that they're neurosurgeons. And they have the ego to go with it. I'm not saying that your vet is one of those, but if they can't handle you denying their recommended treatment and going another way, then I would look for a second opinion. Really, this was probably a big decision for you, and not everyone can afford or is willing to spend stacks of money on experimental surgeries for their dog.
Sometimes simple things like pain intervention and supplements can do a great deal to help with basic symptoms.

 

[ses1230]

The situation here in PA really is a mess at present.

So true because PA has the dubious distinction of being the puppy mill capital of the East. Perhaps if this wasn't the case the dog laws would not need "strengthening".

 

[Camno's Mama]

Dogs definitely do not always show their pain. Especially if they are large dogs...they can "hide" it better. We were in a situation that was similar, in that our dog needed a very expensive surgery. He was in a lot of pain, but still being sweet and trying to be the dog that he always was. He was five years old when he got injured, by the way.

We decided that we did not feel that it was fair to make him live that way. He couldn't play or run around or swim. He couldn't just do dog things. We did not want to place our human definitions about what life should be onto him. He had no way of understanding the dramatic change in his way of life. We made the very hard decision to put him to sleep. It's a very personal decision, and should not be made lightly.

If the humane society is involved and your vet agrees, then you just have to really think about what is best for your dog and your family. It's not an easy thing to go through, and someone else should not be able to make it for you. But we do take on the responsibility of someday making this decision when we take on a pup. It's a sad reality, and it's not easy.

I wish you the best of luck. People will always give their opinion and you may have to face some judgment in this kind of situation. Just be confident in whatever decision that you make, and know that you are trying to do what is right, either way. Maybe the vet will be able to give you better pain meds, if your dog isn't already on them.

 

[Matt'sMom]

So true because PA has the dubious distinction of being the puppy mill capital of the East. Perhaps if this wasn't the case the dog laws would not need "strengthening".

But the current PA dog laws & USDA kennel regulations ARE more than sufficient to eliminate the horrific conditions of "puppy mills". They simply need to be appropriately enforced. If elimination of PM's is truly the goal, then there really would be no reason for imposing more restrictive regulation on the average, pet owning family.

I am under the impression that the OP is simply a typical pet owner, who is being pressured to either shell out $$$ for an experimental surgery (that may not help at all), or destroy their canine family member. They are not a "puppy mill" or commercial kennel operation, so I don't see what purpose bringing up that emotional catch phrase even has in this discussion.

IMHO, the OP should have the right to determine at what point their dog's quality of life becomes so diminished as to merit euthanasia as an option. They live with and interact with their pet on a daily basis, and are in a better position to evaluate his ongoing condition (as opposed to the HS officer). I would agree with those who recommend seeking a second veterinary opinion, and pursuing the option of pain management if appropriate. You know your dog best--know whether he is simply disabled, or truly miserable and barely existing. Dogs are capable of enjoying life, even with a certain level of chronic discomfort & disability, just as many people do. When their condition reaches a point where the dog is genuinely suffering and no longer enjoying life, you will know. OP, you shouldn't be pressured into destroying your canine companion just because he is less than perfect.

 

[allison k]

IMHO, the OP should have the right to determine at what point their dog's quality of life becomes so diminished as to merit euthanasia as an option. They live with and interact with their pet on a daily basis, and are in a better position to evaluate his ongoing condition (as opposed to the HS officer). I would agree with those who recommend seeking a second veterinary opinion, and pursuing the option of pain management if appropriate. You know your dog best--know whether he is simply disabled, or truly miserable and barely existing. Dogs are capable of enjoying life, even with a certain level of chronic discomfort, just as many people do. When their condition reaches a point where the dog is genuinely suffering and no longer enjoying life, you will know. OP, you shouldn't be pressured into destroying your canine companion just because he is less than perfect.

Well said!

I've been watching this thread and was thinking the same. It is YOUR decision. Do not let someone else make it for you.

 

[megveg]

OP I am very very sorry you have to go through this. I really hope for you and your dog that everything works out.