My 13 yr old mixed cocker spaniel is not doing so well. I feel like he is not living his best life. He has developed several issues in the past couple years that impact his QoL. I’m worried how to deal with his buddy an 11-12 year old mixed shih tzu. I do not want him to get depressed nor do I want to get a new dog just to replace him. I’m open for suggestions. Thank you. I also told my older sister to not get me a new dog as she has a habit of doing so lol.
I’m sorry to hear about this. The best advice I can give from. My experience is to have them together when he is put down, have someone come and do it in home. It gives a chance to say goodbye to the other pet and to find some closure.
I would recommend this as well if you have the option. With my previous dog, the regular vet recommended another vet who was semi-retired to only doing final house calls. She was really nice and empathic and made it all easier to get through.
Whether getting a new puppy is a good idea or not very much depends on what your shih tzu is like - would he be able to keep up with a new puppy and enjoy it or is peace and quiet more his thing?
Agree here. Perhaps it is time to make that decision.