Should You Euthanize Your Aging Pet? How to Make (and Cope with) Your Decision
Dr. Diane Pomerance, nationally known pet expert and author of \"Animal Elders: Caring About Our Aging Animal Companions\" shares what to consider when having to choose life or death for a pet who is aging or seriously ill.

/Veterinary News Articles/ - Argyle, TX, May 20, 2005 - Your pets are like members of the family. From the minute that tiny kitten or playful puppy arrives, you began to develop strong bonds of trust and loyalty. That is why making the decision to euthanize them as they grow older or seriously ill can be incredibly difficult and painful.

According to estimates from the American Humane Society, approximately 9.6 million animals are euthanized annually in the United States. While some may have been put down due to overcrowding in shelters, others are sick, injured or old.

"Some of our companions die naturally and without the need for human intervention.

Others truly suffer and are no longer able to enjoy their lives," says Dr. Diane Pomerance, nationally known pet expert and author of Animal Elders: Caring About Our Aging Animal Companions (Polaire Publications, www.AnimalCompanionsAndTheirPeople.com). "Then we
as human beings, as guardians and caregivers, must be prepared to intervene."

Certified as a Grief Recovery Specialist, Dr. Pomerance has a special interest in helping those who are mourning the loss of a beloved companion animal. She is the creator and director of the Pet Grief Counseling Program for the SPCA of Texas and is the author of several books and numerous articles.

"When faced with an ill or aging pet, you must weigh all the factors and decide what is best for the pet, regardless of your emotions," says Dr. Pomerance.

Here Dr. Pomerance offers a few things to consider to help you make the painful decision of whether or not to end your aging pet's life:

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Can your pet walk on its own and how much pain does it suffer when walking?
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How are your pet's sight and hearing and what are the prospects of these being improved?
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Is there irreversible and/or life impairing organ damage?
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Is there any humane veterinary treatment available?
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Is incontinence through urinary or bowel control an unsolvable problem?

If your pet is suffering greatly, euthanization may be the greatest gift of compassion you can offer and perhaps the kindest, most humane decision you can ever make.

Find out more about how to make life comfortable for a pet that has past its prime with "5 Tips for Caring for Your Aging Animal Companion" at www.AnimalCompanionsAndTheirPeople.com.


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CONTACT
Dr. Diane Pomerance
(817) 430-1046
chmeezepal@aol.com
www.AnimalCompanionsAndTheirPeople.com

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Diane Pomerance
Polaire Publications
President
USA
Voice: 817-430-1046
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