There comes a time when veterinary medicine can do no more for your failing pet. Realizing the right time to say goodbye may be one of the toughest things a pet parent has to learn.

Your veterinarian can help you assess your pet’s quality of life by outlining the following goals. The first one is that your pet feels no pain and is able to breathe comfortably. Next, your pet shouldn’t experience hunger, meaning your pet can eat and maintain nutrition. Your buddy also needs to be able to stay hydrated. Proper hygiene is also necessary, as pets can actually become demoralized if they’re unable to move away from urine and feces and stay clean.

If your pet has more bad days than good days, you may have your answer. That’s when you can speak to your veterinarian about providing a peaceful farewell for your beloved best friend.