How do you know when it's "time?"
Hey guys! Been a member for a while but haven't posted since back when technology got the best of the board. You all have been so good with advice in the past, and have so much experience that I thought I would pop on here and ask for help. This isn't about my lab, but one of my other rescues. Buster is a GSD mix, approaching 13 yrs old. Sadly his hips were never good, and he was likely born with bad hips and battled that issue for a long time. He can no longer control his bowels or urine. At times (very rarely)he goes to the door, but other times he is sound asleep and doesn't even realize he is going potty. When he is laying down, he can usually get up on his own as long as it's carpeting - laminate or tile floor- not usually. He really doesn't have much stability in his hind legs so he can't stand for long periods of time, and times when he is walking his legs give out. There are times he seems disoriented, and others he is sharp as a tack. I know what you all are thinking...but the flip side, he still has a healthy appetite and gets quite excited about meal time. He also still loves his ball and walking around with it come play time with the other dogs. He has never been a fetcher, just likes walking around with his ball. I am really struggling with the decision. I still see a glimmer of life in him, but I also don't want him suffering. DH and I have completely and willingly revamped our lives for Buster. i.e - only being gone for 2-3 hours at a time on errands, eliminating stairs as much as possible for Buster by me keeping Buster with me during the day and DH staying in the den downstairs and hanging with Buster in evenings while I sit upstairs, we wash sheets and towels every day due to the "potty fouls", have him on his pain meds and supplements. I don't want any rude comments, just looking for some guidance. I've never had to send a dog to rainbow bridge before so I am really struggling on what to do. I've prayed that I wouldn't have to make this decision, but it's becoming reality. In my mind if he still has some life in him, I feel like I would be killing him, but I also know I don't want to be selfish and hang on for my own heart. :-(