Info about Aging
Aging related issues-when it's time
Dogs don't really live very long—approximately 12 to 14 years if we're lucky. Our job is to notice physical and mental changes as they occur and try to help our dogs be as comfortable as possible. One of the services that we can do for our dogs is to notice when they are not getting any joy from living and to help them pass on. If your dog is healthy and happy until the very end of his life, you are lucky—and so is he. However, that often doesn't happen. I have had many clients who have asked my help in determining when might be the right time. We know that it's our responsibility as the human being to make a decision that the dog can't, but it can be very difficult. You need to be objective and subjective at the same time: You need to be both parent and Supreme Being. If you think only of the dog and not how you'll miss him, it becomes easier. Some people wait until the dog can no longer eat. Others wait until he can't seem to work up any energy to play. Some people wait far too long—perhaps they don't notice that their pet is deteriorating, or perhaps they are just willing their pet to get better.
As a consultant for the last fifteen years, I'm constantly amazed and awed by the dedication many owners display with regard to their dogs—even those with very serious issues. They truly think of their dogs as their children. Unfortunately, from puppy hood to old age, dogs can have a variety of problem behaviors. Some have just a few, while others have many. Some are minor, and some are serious. I've addressed some problem behaviors and provided some behavior modification techniques. Do remember that if your dog has serious issues, you should consult a knowledgeable and trustworthy personal consultant or trainer who will construct your own modification program based on your particular dog and your relationship with him.