When to Put My Dog Down: Signs Your Pet May Be Ready for Euthanasia
- pawkit sg
- Jul 20
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 23
Making the choice to say goodbye to your beloved pet is never easy, and the thought of putting your dog down can be overwhelming. This is often one of the most difficult decisions that pet owners have to face - knowing when it’s time to let go. While no one wants to face this moment, ensuring our pets’ comfort and well-being is a compassionate act of love.
This article guides you through the decision-making process, offering insights into recognising when it might be time to consider euthanasia and how to approach this emotionally difficult decision with care and dignity.
What Is Pet Euthanasia?
Pet euthanasia, often referred to as “putting a pet to sleep”, is the act of humanely ending the life of a pet to alleviate suffering when they are facing terminal illness, injury or severe pain that cannot be managed.
Euthanasia is considered a final act of kindness, offering relief when other treatments or interventions are no longer effective of when the pet’s quality of life has significantly deteriorated. While it’s a heart-wrenching decision, it’s made with the pet’s well-being in mind, focusing on providing them with dignity, comfort and peace in their final moments.
Signs That It May Be Time to Put Your Dog Down
Before making any decision, it’s helpful to evaluate your dog’s overall quality of life. Take our Pet Quality Of Life Quiz below to assess your dog’s health and happiness:
Every dog is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to when it’s time to say goodbye. However, there are several common signs that may indicate it’s time to consider euthanasia.
Physical Symptoms
Severe pain or discomfort: If your pet is in constant pain, even with medication, and it’s no longer manageable
Difficulty moving: If your pet can no longer walk, stand, or do basic activities, such as eating or drinking
Loss of appetite and extreme weight loss: When your pets lose interest in eating or drinking and are not maintaining their weight
Incontinence: If your pet has lost control over their bladder or bowel functions and is unable to relieve themselves
Behavioural Changes
Disinterest in social interaction: If your pet no longer seeks attention, interacts with family members, or engages in things they once loved
Increased aggression or anxiety: A sudden shift in behaviour, such as aggression or anxiety, especially if it’s out of character for your pet
Lack of response to familiar things: When pets no longer react to familiar voices, treats, or activities
Chronic Conditions
If your dog has been diagnosed with a progressive, untreatable illness such as cancer, kidney failure, or heart disease, and their condition is worsening.
How To Prepare For Pet Euthanasia?
Preparing for pet euthanasia can be one of the most emotionally challenging experience in a pet owner’s journey. But taking the time to plan ahead can help you feel more at peace during this difficult journey. Here are some steps to help guide you through the process:
Consult With Your Vet
Speak with your vet about your pet’s condition and discuss the possibility of euthanasia. They will likely schedule a teleconsultation or home consultation with you and your pet to understand their medical history, assess their quality of life and determine whether there are any remaining treatment options to provide the best recommendation. They will also be able to explain the process of euthanasia and answer any questions you may have.
Decide On The Location
Some owners may feel more supported in a veterinary clinic, where medical staff are readily available. While others may prefer the familiarity and comfort of home, where the pet can be surrounded by loved ones in a peaceful setting. Many vets now offer housecall euthanasia services to help make this difficult time as gentle and stress-free as possible for both you and your pet.
Spend Time With Your Pet
Before the procedure, spend meaningful quality time with your pet to offer them comfort and love. Whether it’s taking a final walk, giving them their favourite treats, or simply cuddling with them, these moments provide both you and your pet with peace. Speak gently to them, express your gratitude and love in a quiet, calm environment. This time allows your to create a peaceful, comforting atmosphere to keep them at ease and provide both emotional closure and reassurance during this period.
Make Aftercare Arrangements
It’s important to consider your pet’s aftercare, whether you prefer cremation, burial or other options. Your vet can guide your in making these arrangements in advance, so you don’t need to worry about them later.
Seek Support
Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, guidance counsellor or a pet loss support group. Remember, you are not alone in this journey and sharing your feeling with those hwo care can help ease the emotional weight of the decision. Allow yourself to grieve and take solace in the love and support of others who understand the deep bond you shared with your pet.
How Does Pet Euthanasia Work?
If you and your vet decide that euthanasia is the most compassionate choice, it’s important to understand what happens during the process:
Preparation and Comfort
Before the procedure, your pet will be made comfortable. The vet may allow you to spend some quiet time with your pet to say your final goodbyes. You can comfort them, pet them and let them feel every ounce of your love and presence. If you’re having the euthanasia done at home, the environment will be made as calm and peaceful as possible.
Sedation
To ensure your pet is relaxed and free of pain, a sedative is administered first. This medication helps your pet become calm and sleepy, ensuring they won’t feel any distress during the procedure. The sedative also helps reduce anxiety, allowing your pet to rest peacefully before the final step.
Euthanasia Injection
After your pet is sedated, the veterinarian will administer a euthanasia solution, usually through an intravenous injection. This solution will cause your pet to fall asleep deeply and gently stop their heart. The process is painless and quick, and your pet will pass away peacefully in a calm, stress-free state.
How Much Does Pet Euthanasia Cost in Singapore?
The cost of pet euthanasia in Singapore varies based on factors like your pet’s size, the service provider, and whether the procedure is conducted at home or in a clinic. Here's an overview of typical pricing:
Cost of Home Euthanasia in Singapore
Many pet owners prefer home euthanasia for its comfort and familiarity. Prices for home euthanasia services typically range from $500 to $700 for dogs, depending on their weight. For cats, costs are generally between $400 and $650. Additional charges may apply for same-day bookings, after-hours services, or weekends.
Pawkit offers same day and next day appointments, ranging from $520 - $590 or dogs, $490 - $520 for cats and $450 for rabbits and guinea pigs.
Cost of Clinic Euthanasia in Singapore
Clinic-based euthanasia is another option, often preferred by those who wish to avoid additional home service fees. Consultation fees for euthanasia procedures in clinics typically range from $40 to $200, with additional charges for after-hours services.
What Happens After Euthanasia?
Once your dog has passed, there are several aftercare options to consider:
Cremation or burial: You can choose to have your pet cremated or buried. Many veterinarians offer cremation services, and some provide individual cremation for you to keep your dog’s ashes.
Memorialising your pet: You might consider creating a memorial for your dog, such as a photo album, paw print, or other keepsakes to remember them by.
What If I'm Not Ready For Euthanasia?
Making the decision to say goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy and it’s completely normal to feel uncertain, conflicted, or not ready at all. Euthanasia is a deeply personal choice, and there’s no set timeline for when it “should” happen.
If you’re not ready, that’s okay. Take the time you need to understand your pet’s condition, talk openly with your vet about their quality of life, and explore palliative or hospice care options that can help keep your pet comfortable for as long as possible.
Saying goodbye to your dog is one of the hardest things you’ll ever do as a pet owner. It’s an act of love and compassion to ensure your dog’s comfort and dignity in their final moments. By being informed, consulting with your veterinarian, and assessing your dog’s quality of life, you can make the decision with peace of mind, knowing that you’re doing what’s best for your furry friend.
Remember, you’re not alone during this process—reach out for support when needed, and take the time you need to say goodbye. Your pet will forever hold a special place in your heart.
Frequently Asked Questions About Housecall Pet Euthanasia
Do pets feel pain during euthanasia?
No, pets do not feel pain during euthanasia. The procedure is designed to be peaceful and painless. Typically, a veterinarian will administer a sedative to relax your pet and make them sleepy. Afterward, they will administer a euthanasia solution that quickly puts your pet to sleep and stops their heart in a gentle and painless way. The process is meant to be as calm and stress-free as possible for your pet, ensuring they do not experience any discomfort or distress during their final moments.
Should I stay with my pet during euthanasia?
Yes, it’s perfectly okay to stay with your pet during euthanasia if you feel comfortable doing so. Many pet owners find comfort in being with their pet in their final moments, providing them with reassurance and love. It can be a beautiful and peaceful way to say goodbye, and your presence can help ease your pet’s anxiety. However, the decision is ultimately personal. If you feel that staying might be too emotionally overwhelming, you can choose to say goodbye in a way that feels right for you. Your veterinarian will guide you through the process and offer support in whatever choice you make.
How can I make the decision to put my dog down if I’m unsure?
It’s normal to feel uncertain. Speak with your vet about your dog’s prognosis and quality of life. They can help you assess whether euthanasia is the most compassionate choice.