| In the space of 2 years, I've had two rotties diagnosed with terminal hemangiosarcoma. In both cases, I was offered surgery and chemotherapy to 'buy them some quality time". In both cases I chose to euthanize them shortly after diagnosis, as their illness had come on suddenly and they were in discomfort.
If there were any chance of a cure, I would have reconsidered further treatment. However, I believe that treating terminal cancer with chemo and/or surgery buys time for the owner, not the dog. Dogs live in the here and now, and a few more months of life is meaningless to them especially if it involves more pain and discomfort.
My dogs have given me loyalty and companionship. In return for this I allowed them to die with dignity, with a minimum of pain and discomfort. I believe this was the greatest gift I could give them.
I realize that not everyone agrees with this point of view. I know all too well that putting down a beloved pet is probably the most difficult responsibility of pet ownership. And yes, I do believe that if one has thousands of dollars to spare, it is much better spent being donated to rescue, animal shelters, hurricane relief, or cancer research than to use it to prolong the life of a terminally ill pet. Just my opinion.
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"Everyone's life makes a difference; what KIND of difference you make is up to you."
--Jane Goodall |