dcara
Well-known member
Have an 11yr old long hair German Shepard (Cesar) that is almost to the point that I need to be prepared to make that final decision. I'm not sure I want him to have to suffer through another Texas summer in his worsening condition. But then I thought that last summer too. As are all our dogs now, he was a drop off. We took him in 9 years ago and he has been a great watch dog. In the past I have had dogs euthenized, mainly at my wife's request, when they could no longer get up, or otherwise take care of themselves. Cesar barely gets up now but insists on making it out to feed the cattle and horses with me and the other dogs. He only makes it about halfway now before he lays down waits for us to return. Three weeks ago he tangled with some coyotes or wild dogs that must have come onto the property. He got pretty tore up. I'm sure if it hadn't been for the other dogs he would not have survived it. I've got him pretty much back together now, but between his cataracts and arthritis, his ability to take care of himself is in question. I've always felt that having the vet put our dogs down was a cop out on my part and that I should be the one to do the deed. If I decide to do it, is a 22 to the head the best way?