The tail end of life

Dealing with a sick pet can be traumatic. Fido and Fluffy can’t tell you when they’re feeling extreme pain or they’re no longer enjoying life. And the legalities can get sticky: If you can’t afford expensive treatments for your dog or cat but don’t want to euthanize it, how do you avoid the appearance of neglect? The recent ticketing of an Omahan put these questions in the spotlight. Here are some guidelines on end-of-life issues for your four-legged family members.

To avoid legal problems

Develop rapport with a vet. Taking pets to regular veterinarian visits helps the doctors understand your connection with the pet.

Deal with issues quickly. Putting off your pet's health problems often leads to tougher situations. Catching an ailment early can be paramount.

Take proper action. It's best to follow your vet's advice. That may mean paying for further treatment or opting for euthanasia. But the Humane Society doesn't take kindly to not caring for a suffering pet.

To deal with steep vet bills

Ask about payment plans. Some vets will allow you to pay off bills on a monthly or weekly basis.

Consider credit. Care Credit, Citi Healthcard and other credit organizations offer interest-free payment periods of six months or more.

Seek Humane Society help. The Nebraska Humane Society will adopt your sick pet and cover its medical expenses, but you must relinquish ownership. The Humane Society also will euthanize your pet. It asks for a $25 donation to cover the service, which is far cheaper than many vets charge.

To help decide between care and euthanasia

Evaluate quality of life. Think of five attributes that make your pet happy. Given its condition, how many of those attributes can it still achieve? If the number is dwindling, euthanasia may be more humane.

Weigh idealism and pragmatism. Consider if expensive treatment may only buy a few more weeks with no guarantee of success. Weighing those factors may influence your decision.

Seek outside input. Gather friends, family members and anyone familiar with your pet. Ask them for their advice. Have them evaluate your pet's situation and whether it can lead a good life anymore.

To deal with loss

Assemble a support group. Surround yourself with like-minded friends and family. Some people may scoff at grieving for a pet. Seek out those who understand your situation.

Learn to grieve. Look for books, Web sites and hot lines that can provide support and guidance during your grieving process.

Consider a memorial. It could be a small service, buying a tree or bush in your pet's honor, burying its body or spreading its ashes. It will provide some kind of legacy.

Sources: Pam Wiese, Nebraska Humane Society; Gail Bishop, clinic coordinator for the Argus Institute for Families and Veterinary Medicine at Colorado State University; Humane Society of the United States; American Veterinary Medical Association.

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