dying beta

Question
Hi Chris... about a week ago, you repsonded to a question about a beta for me.  This is the question and answer:

"I have had an orange beta for a couple years now and he has always been very active in his bowl... which holds about 3 quarts of water... he usually likes to swim around when I feed him and always snatches up the pellets and then flares up at my finger. The last week he hasn't been doing any of that... and tonight I noticed some reddish discoloration near one of his eyes (if I didn't know better I'd think he had a zit!!). I'm really worried about him... can you give me any advice? I'd hate for him to die : (
Tracy



Chris Robbins Answers -
Hi Tracy;

Poor guy. He may have a bacterial infection of some type. That is what redness usually indicates. Get his bowl to the warmest place in your house so his metabolism and immune system will improve. You could try an antibiotic that absorbs into the fish. The only one readily available is called "Maracyn 2". You will have to break the tablets into tiny portions for his size bowl.

He is quite an old little fella too. Betta's life span is 2 to 3 years and they are already a year old or so when we buy them in the stores. I hate to mention it, but it may just be his time. He has lived a long and wonderful life with you. You have taken good care of him...........

At Your Service;
Chris Robbins"

I did purchase the tablets and have been using them.  They aren't working and I think you are right that it is just his time.  He's still not eating and very lethargic.  His face is much worse... redder and swollen on one side... I can't imagine that he is not in pain.  I don't want him to suffer but I don't know what to do.  He is a very tough guy and isn't quite ready to die I guess.  Should I discontinue use of the tablets?  Should I continue to put food in even though he doesn't eat it?  I don't want to kill him but I feel horrible that he is suffering.  
: (

Thanks for your help,
Tracy  

Answer
Hi Tracy;

Poor little fella. He may have cancer or something. If he hasn't improved and you think it's his time you are probably right. Sometimes despite our best efforts they just can't get well. Here is a web page that describes a humane method of euthanasia for fish;

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-most-humane-way-to-euthanize-a-fish.htm

Sad for both of you......
Chris Robbins