College of Veterinary Medicine

Pet Loss Hotline

Questions About your Pet's Quality of Life


  Chocolate Labrador
  • Does he/she still enjoy his usual activities?
  • Does he/she appear to be in pain?
  • What do I think he/she would want at this point? What would I want if I were in her/his position?
  • Do I have the financial and physical resources it may take to adequately care for him/her as his/her condition declines?
  • Will the quality of life through the treatment and beyond be good enough for the time it afforded? Am I prolonging their life for my pet or for me?
  • Do I have any questions/concerns about euthanasia that may be preventing me from feeling good about making a decision?  

Also see When is it Time to Say Goodbye?


Contact the Pet Loss Hotline



Last Edited: Oct 13, 2008 2:31 PM
Pet Loss Hotline,  PO Box 647060 , Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-7060, 509-335-5704, Contact Us   Safety Links