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Question

What if I can no longer manage my dog's care?

Sunny, owner notes“I wish my dog lived as long as I do.”Updated

I'm an owner, not a vet. This is not veterinary advice, so check anything medical with your own vet.

Short answer

If you're exhausted and wondering how long you can keep this up, you're not a bad owner. Many people reach this point. Tell your vet honestly what you can't keep doing, whether it's the lost sleep, the fear or the physical work. Ask what help or simpler options there are, and what each would mean for his comfort. Then you can decide together.

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What to know at home

You can be honest about your limits and still care deeply about what your dog needs. Ask the vet what real options there are, and what he would go through if treatment stopped. A good vet will think about both of you, the dog and the person caring for him.

What to write down

  • Which tasks cannot be sustained
  • Support that is actually available
  • Comfort, distress and enjoyment of daily life

What to ask next

Ask about help at home, comfort-only care, and euthanasia if it comes to that. Talking to a pet-loss support service can help, before or after you decide. Whatever you choose, you don't have to work it out alone.

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Sources

Every outside source I used is listed on the Sources page.

Related

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Is it worth treating diabetes, especially in an older dog?

It's natural to wonder whether treatment is fair on an older dog, but age on its own doesn't decide it.

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Can a diabetic dog still have a good quality of life?

Yes, most diabetic dogs can still enjoy life, and you'll judge that best by watching your own dog.

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What does palliative or comfort care look like for a diabetic dog?

When your dog is near the end, comfort care should still be planned with your vet.

Urgent help

Emergency or low blood sugar

Call a vet now if your dog is weak, collapsed or having a seizure.