Ask Dr. LaFarge: Pet Loss

I have a 4-year-old Lab/retriever mix. She was diagnosed with kidney and liver disease when she was 11 months old. I want to know when it is time to put her down, because I don't want to see her suffer. Lately she has been very lazy, and hasn't been eating or drinking a lot. My husband is deployed right now, and my kids, who are 6, 4, and four months old, are very attached to her. Please help me.
—Markie

The task of preparing your children for the death of a beloved pet can seem very overwhelming, Markie. However, it is also an opportunity to show your children how well your family can cope with sadness.

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