jersey girl
Well-Known Member
I'm surprised any vet would put down a healthy dog...even if it was the owners wishes. That's disturbing.
I'm surprised any vet would put down a healthy dog...even if it was the owners wishes. That's disturbing.
I do not think the issue is black and white. It is highly dependent on the individual dog. I am glad so many people responded with their own personal experiences. I think there is a lot of validity in euthanizing a dog that you do not feel could be safetly or happily rehomed after your passing.
Actually, I was the lucky one to follow through with this request. My mom passed away years ago and she asked for her dog to be euthanized, cremated and buried with her. Hardest thing I EVER had to do. The dog was older but healthy. Probably the best solution for the dog as they were really bonded. I would have took the dog but it would not have been a perfect situation(nothing is). Out of grief for losing my mom, I took the dog to the vet. The vet did it, respecting her wishes-maybe she talked to him prior to, I don't know. What I do know is I, to this day, resent being put in that situation. I did not realize how scarring it would be for me to do that. For those folks who would consider this option for the pet, please discuss this with the person and know it is extremely difficult to go through this. Much tougher than watching my own mother die in the hospital.
This was my first thought...not only was it a healthy dog, but it was a working guide dog that could have bonded with a new owner, and provided years of service. I don't care what the circumstances are...that should be criminal on the vets part, and is the hugest of a-hole moves by the owner.In the case of a young healthy pet, especially one that has had training and could have helped someone else no I can't agree it was fair to the dog and no I would not be able to do so.
Im not 100% against euthanizing dogs on your death. Here is why...
I have a working GSD. He is very obedient out of drive for others in my family. They have no control once drive initiation occurs. I do. Who could exercise him safely? nobody i know currently. Including direct family.
Last year, i broke a bone in foot, and could not physically work my dog. I could trick train from a sofa, that was it.
NONE of my family stepped up the plate. Sure a few walked him for 30 mins, or an hour if they were going that far, but that was it.
For this dog, that is NOT enough. He needs jobs to do or he goes nuts, is unhappy, cant turn off. This is a physical risk to the dogs cardiac system. If you dont turn it off.
I would euthanase Bernie, and not give him to another. As i know, he doesnt do well with not working. And is not bomb proof for others walking him. They just dont have the control of a handler who works him daily. IF i leave him, he does not eat. He's middle aged, and why should this extreemly high drive dog, that has been created to do a specific job by me, and great genes, be asked to be a conformation dog. That to me is cruel.
Id rather PTS
I wouldn't do it, she isn't fair with her decision, if the owner is hurt, why's the dog gotta go down with them, and being a perfectly healthy 5 year old, i would have re homed the dog, would rather have my dog be alive and with a family, than dead at an early age. Even if my dog is crazy in behavior i would spend what i got too get my dog too a family member, and hire a solid trainer.
Or you could find an owner who could work the dog!