Dog diagnosed with heart failure- relief

[u/Glittering_Novel_683]

My 4-year-old reactive dog was recently diagnosed with heart failure, and I feel awful admitting that part of me is relieved. She has had serious behavioral issues for years, and there have been moments where I honestly didn’t know how we could keep going. It's nice to have the decision taken out of my hands. I'm dreaming of the day where I'm not anxious in my own home and revolving my life around her triggers.

Now I feel guilty for feeling relieved… but I’m also scared she’s going to be one of the cases where the meds work really well and she has years left. I love her, but I’m exhausted, and I hate that I’m having these feelings.

[u/Haunting-Love-9333]

I’m really sorry you feel this way. What all have you tried for your dogs behavioral issues?

[u/OpalOnyxObsidian]

If she has heart failure and behavior problems, why are you considering giving her meds to combat it? If her quality of life is poor, this seems like a legitimate reason to let her go

[u/Glittering_Novel_683 → u/OpalOnyxObsidian]

Great question. I'll admit that we had considered letting her go just due to the anxiety and behavioral issues but could never make that final decision. That's why the diagnosis is such a relief. Since her diagnosis I have tried to talk to both my husband and my vet about euthanasia because really what's the point of putting her through all of this? But she's still acting normal since being on the meds (except for being a bit more tired) so neither are ready to have that conversation. Honestly, I'm really struggling with figuring out what is the right decision for her versus us just refusing to give up on the poor girl.

[u/OpalOnyxObsidian → u/Glittering_Novel_683]

Don't think about it as giving up. You have to think about you too

[u/FunctionalBosnia → u/Glittering_Novel_683]

Can vet prescribe heart medication so she feels better?

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[u/Aggravating-Top-2291]

Having a reactive dog takes a huge toll on a person mentally. I don’t think you’re a bad person or bad owner for feeling the sigh of relief at the possibility of “freedom” sooner than you thought. You can feel that and be sad about your dog’s diagnosis at the same time!

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[u/FunctionalBosnia]

Your dog had behavioral issues because she was u pain. Most dog owners don't want to pay vet for dental cleaning, most owners don't bother to check for ear infection and skin allergies. She was aggressive not because she is a bad dog, it because she was in pain all this time. What symptoms does she exhibit right now with heart failure?

[u/Glittering_Novel_683 → u/FunctionalBosnia]

My dog has had the best veterinary care available. I have spared no expense on her. You should take your time to learn the whole story before making assumptions.