I realize this is a touchy topic for pet owners, but it's a topic that shouldn't be ignored.

Inevitably, all of us will be faced with the difficult decision concerning the euthanasia of a beloved pet. It is certainly an act not to be taken lightly or performed without extensive forethought. So when does euthanasia become a consideration or option when dealing with a pet? When is it time to say good-bye?

Obviously, if a pet is suffering from a terminal illness or injury marked by uncontrollable pain, euthanasia must be considered to provide humane relief from the pain and suffering. But what about those older or terminally-ill pets that outwardly don't seem to be in pain? Fortunately, nature provides some clues that help to make the decision more obvious. In the wild, animals that are nearing death will stop eating, stop interacting with their "pack" like they used to, and will seek solitude. Older pets reaching the "end" will often do the same.

I tell my clients that if their pet's "bad" days are outnumbering the "good" days, it's probably time to say good-bye. Just be sure to enlist the help of your veterinarian to confirm that your decision is the correct one. Rest assured that he/she does not take the task of euthanasia lightly; emotionally, it is a heavy and sometimes disturbing responsibility of our profession. As a result, if your veterinarian feels that it is time, then it probably is and you should take solace in the fact that your decision is indeed justified.

I know it's one of the hardest decisions you'll ever have to make in your life. And you'll grieve. Grieving is normal. It's nothing to be ashamed of. If you need them, support groups for pet owners are available to help you through the hard times. There are even professional grief counselors who can lend an understanding ear. Again, what you are experiencing is very real and very natural, and an empathetic shoulder to lean on can be great comfort and relief at times of such emotional distress.

Remember this too: We're here for you. Don't hesitate to contact us at any time if you need to talk. We've all been through it before with our own pets, so you're not alone.

No doubt you've already seen it on the news, but canine distemper
is making a comeback, prompting a high alert among animal
shelters and veterinarians across the country to be on the watch for this highly
contagious and lethal viral disease of dogs. I myself have treated three
cases of the disease in the past month; unfortunately, all three of
these puppies died. All three were recently adopted from shelters.

Some experts worried that a new strain of the virus had appeared, but in
fact, this is not the case. The epidemic is being caused by
a growing canine population that either has not been vaccinated
or has poor immunity against the disease.

As a result, be sure your dog has been properly vaccinated against this
virus. Some veterinarians now only vaccinate for distemper every three
years, others don't even recommend it for dogs over two years of age.
I myself vaccinate my dogs every year. The reason? The vaccine is safe
and the disease is deadly. In my mind, its a no-brainer.

If you plan on adopting a new puppy from a shelter, be aware that
it could be harboring the virus, which may not rear its ugly head for
up to two weeks. As a result, keep the pup quarantined from your other
pets for at least two weeks, and notify the shelter immediately if the puppy
exhibits any digestive or respiratory signs during that time.