Why do they have to get old?

@Leanne, I am so sorry and sad for you, Leo sounds a very dear dog. I think the day comes when you just know 'this is the day' but it that doesn't happen I think you have to decide which is best for the dog, as my vet said, 'a day too soon is better than a day too late'. Maybe if you think Leo is up to it, take him away, let him enjoy in his own way the beach and holiday and then you might feel that you have given him a happy last few days and then able to make the decision you don't want to make. Thinking of you, not a happy place to be x
 
On a practical note, I had the poo accidents with my old Pres. He didn’t know he was going and it really didn’t seem to bother him. At that stage, he still enjoyed walks / plods and still seemed happy in himself- so we made the decision to just manage and live with the accidents. I bought several kids mattress protectors from Ikea and changed them over and washed them and it wasn’t too much hassle. (Luckily the poos were nice and firm so didn’t make much mess!)

In terms of when - I only echo what others have said. I agonised over the thought of ‘how will I possibly know it’s time’ - but one morning, I just knew.

Such a tough time. Thoughts and hugs are with you both.
 

Candy

Biscuit Tin Guardian
So sorry to hear what you're going through Leanne.Have been there myself. As others have said, you have clearly given him a wonderful life and you will know in your heart when it's time to say goodbye. Hugs to you. xxx
 

Leanne

Sniffer Dog
Location
Shropshire, UK
Appointment has been made for the 3rd January. Spoke in length to my lovely vet who agrees with the decision.

We go away on friday for 2 sleeps at an amazing farm in wales that is next to the breacon beacons so 2 days of wandering around the forest and letting him sniff away to his hearts content and then curling up in front of a log fire in the evening.

God this is going to Absolutley suck.
 
I only " liked " your post because I wanted you to know that my thoughts are with you . Having been in this horrible place myself , too many times , I know its hard but be proud of yourself for making the kindest decision , and enjoy your break x
 

Leanne

Sniffer Dog
Location
Shropshire, UK
It’s such a hard decision. I know we could potentially have another year with him, but I barely recognise him now.

He ate his dinner last night, then when I went into the kitchen about 10 minutes later he was actually crying at the door because he couldn’t remember being fed. So I fed him again, and he did it again. He’s never even eaten all his dinner usually so it’s jusy like a different dog.
 
You know what you have decided is right.

The 2 days in the Welsh woods for a thorough sniff is a lovely final good time for him. Bless you, so difficult but as it is said, this is one of the kindest things you can do for a beloved friend. Hugs x
 

HAH

Moderator
Location
Devon, UK
I’m so sorry @Leanne , this will probably never feel like a good decision but hopefully you’ll feel it’s the right decision. You’ve planned a lovely few days for sniffing and spending time together, and you love him so well, you’re doing what best for him xxx
 
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