Great Dane Wobblers and Incontinent

Question
Hi Paula,

My husband and I are very near considering euthanasia for our Great Dane, Rufus.  He is 5 years old and has Wobblers that progressively worsened recently.  He was crying so bad when trying to get up, that we changed is medication to predinose.  This seems to have helped his pain, but now his incontinence is unbearable.  He was incontinent before due to the damage of his spine, but now it is everywhere - fecal and urinary.  I have a 3 year old and am pregnant and I cannot have such an unsanitary home for my kids.  I've tried diapers and he pees so much it soaks right through.  The PPA drug does nothing to help.  I have to bathe him and wash his bedding nightly which I've been doing months and am tired of it.  I spoke with my vet and she explained that it is ok to have these feelings and she supports our decision to put him down - that he has a horrible disease and it will not be possible for him to get better - he will eventually be paralyzed. I'm so terrified that I am making the wrong decision, but then again is it wrong to keep him alive?  I guess I am looking for reassurance that we are making the right decision.  Thank you.

Answer
Heather,

Wobblers Syndrome is a very crippling and painful disease. I think that you have already made the decision, and I will give you the reassurance that you need. If you have spoken to your veterinarian and he agrees with your decision, that is more then reinforcing in my eyes that you are making a good decision for your dog. I know that this maybe hard, and it may feel like failure but in the long run, you will be ending his suffering. Personally if it was my dog, I would do what would be in his best interest and to alleviate his pain.

I hope this gives you the information that you need in order to make the best decision for your dog. If you need anymore information please don't hesitate to ask. Good luck with Rufus :)