Determining Quality-of-Life
Deciding when to say goodbye to a beloved companion is never easy. While some may tell you, 'You’ll just know,' or 'They will tell you,' the reality is that these moments aren’t always so clear. We hope these resources provide guidance as you navigate this difficult decision. If you need additional support, don't hesitate to reach out to discuss your concerns or schedule a consultation.
Quality of Life Resources
Quality of life refers to a pet's overall well-being, encompassing both physical and emotional health. What defines quality of life can vary significantly between pets—even within the same household. Learn more about using quality of life scales here.
Quality of life scales are valuable tools for assessing your pet’s condition as they age or face illness. While there’s no single “right” moment to say goodbye, there is often a window when euthanasia becomes an appropriate and compassionate choice to prevent or alleviate suffering. This timing depends on factors like your pet’s specific condition—such as severe arthritis versus heart failure—and your own ability to provide ongoing care. Your wellbeing matters, too.
Euthanasia is a compassionate way to prevent or end suffering, but we understand that it may not feel like the right choice for every family. If you are unsure, we’re here to discuss what euthanasia involves and why it may be recommended, as well as what a palliated natural death could look like for your pet. For those opposed to euthanasia, we can help you prepare for a natural passing, offering guidance on managing your pet’s comfort and needs. You are not alone in navigating these deeply personal decisions.
Quality of Life Scales & Pain Resources:
How Will I Know? - OSU-CVM Comprehensive Quality of Life Scale
OSU-CVM Behavioral Quality of Life Scale
BEAP Pain Scale for Cats - Developed by Dr. Shea Cox
BEAP Pain Scale in Dogs - Developed by Dr. Shea Cox
Additional Helpful Links:
When Caring for a Sick Pet Becomes Too Much: Caregiver Compassion Fatigue by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
The Grief Journey That Starts Before the Loss: Anticipatory Grief by Dr. Erica Dickie
Common Dog Diseases:
Dementia in Dogs: When to Euthanize Your Beloved Senior Dog by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
Osteoarthritis in Dogs: Everything You Need to Know by Dr. Julie Buzby
When to Euthanize a Dog With Arthritis: A Vet's Heartfelt Advice by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
When to Euthanize a Dog With Hemangiosarcoma: A Vet's Guidance by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer) in Dogs by Dr. Lauren Jones
Dog Kidney Failure: When to Euthanize Your Dear Dog by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
When to Euthanize a Dog with Cushing's Disease: A Vet's Advice by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
Signs Your Dog With Diabetes is Dying by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
When to Euthanize a Dog with Liver Failure: A Vet's Advice by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
Signs of a Dog Dying of Heart Failure by Dr. Dawnetta Woodruff
Common Cat Diseases:
Dementia in Cats by Dr. Melissa Boldan
Arthritis in Cats by Dr. Lauren Jones
When To Euthanize a Cat with Kidney Disease by Dr. Sandra C. Mitchell
Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Cats by Dr. Krystal Dickinson
Lymphoma in Cats by Dr. Melissa Boldan
When to Put a Cat with Hyperthyroidism to Sleep by Dr. Jennifer Coates
Heart Disease in Cats by Dr. Michael Kearly
“Love is how you stay alive, even after you are gone.”
