My 15 year old lab mix has lost control of his bowels. He seems to be okay acept the bowel problem. Is it time to let him go or do you think until he show pain and other problems I should hold on

[CorkyMax]

If it were me, I could not let the dog go unless it was in pain or suffering in any way---I love my dogs too much and it will be hard enough when the time comes! Have you had the vet check him out to make sure it isn't because of some kind of infection, etc. Old age is prob. the problem, BUT you never know---I'd sure hate to let a dog go not knowing this either! How long has this been going on? Is the poop any different looking than it normally is ---diarrhea, color, smell? If it is diarrhea-like--I'd definitely check with the vet!! Don't know if this will help in this case or not but giving pumpkin (not the pie filling with the sugar, etc!)--just plain canned pumpkin---is suppose to regulate the bowels, whether diarrhea or constipation. Prob. would give 1/2 a cup for a big dog--maybe a little more--Wouldn't hurt if got too much anyway! Has he eaten something different or got into something he shouldn't have? How often does he poop in a day?

[DoggieVogue]

Personally, if my dog wasn't suffering or in pain, I wouldn't let them go. I would adjust my lifestyle. Senior dogs need lots of love and attention. I think caring for your pup in his later days is an excellent way of saying thank you for years of friendship and loyalty. I, like Corky/max, think you should have him checked out by the vet, if you haven't already, just to rule out a health problem. If old age is just the case, as it likely is, I would just find a way to adapt. Just my opinion.

[Lara's mom]

I don't think there is a harder decision to make than that of easing a beloved fur child out of this life. It's agonizing and I'm so sorry that you're having to deal with it. I know that for a great many people, the loss of bowel /bladder control is what causes them to go ahead with euthanasia.

My feelings on the subject are different. If it were my dog, I'd have a serious discussion with the vet to ascertain whether or not my baby was in pain. If the dog is pain free or the pain can be well controlled with medication, I'd roll up all of my rugs and spend as much quality time with my fur baby as I possibly could, spoil him/her rotten and just enjoy every moment.

However, in the end, you are the only one who can make that decision. Every time I read one of these posts, it brings tears to my eyes because I know that one day I will be where you are. We all will.

You are the best person to judge the quality of life your dog has at this point. Ask yourself if he/she seems happy, enjoys meals, walks, etc. It will be hard but, you'll make the right decision when the time is right, whenever that happens to be.

I am currently reading a book by a man who has 14 sheepdogs who he has worked with throughout his life as both a shepherd and a dog trainer. Some of his dogs, quite a few in fact, are growing old and developing problems with eyesight, hearing etc.

I think the effects of old age on a dog, providing they aren't causing the dog pain and suffering, shouldn't be a reason for anyone to consider putting their dog to sleep. Everyone who owns a dog should enter into it knowing that one day their friend will be old and need more care, time and love.

I would talk to your vet about this primarily. I can appreciate it isn't a nice thing to happen to your dog or to you and your house but I agree with DoggieVogue saying that caring for your dog in old age is a way of saying thank you for years of friendship and loyalty.

My parents recently let their 15 year old greyhound "go".

She had bowel incidents as well, however we dealt with that for about 2 years before she went to doggy heaven. She was put to sleep due to an incredible painful hip and back tumor. She could no longer walk at that point.

Personally I think all animals should die at their own time, yet sometimes when the pain is too much then I would only make an exception.

When my old dog (who has since passed) got sick my vet gave me this advise, I hope it helps you.

Make a list of the activities your dogs likes: Walks, fetch, treats, swimming, etc. When he has lost interest in most or all of the things on the list then it is time. If you dog is in pain, it is time.

I did not euthanize my dog... she was 14 and not in pain. She was very picky with food, so I gave her what ever she wanted, she had lost control of her bladder and bowels and had a hard time standing. I washed her daily and carried her to go outside. As I said she was not in pain so I was not going to put her down. I watched her get worse and worse until she died one morning on her bed. I did not want to let he go, but now looking back I feel so selfish for putting her through all that suffering because I was going to miss her. I wish I had let her go while she still had some dignity.

It is the hardest choice you will ever make, my thoughts are with you no matter what you choose.

[lil mutt]

the bowel problem might be caused by a digestive track problem... better bring your pet to the vet just to be sure rather than putting him down when you can still do something about his current problem.