Deciding when and how to end a companion animal's life is one of the most difficult welfare decisions owners face. Evidence-based quality of life assessment can guide compassionate decisions.
The final welfare decision for a companion animal — when to end their life — is among the most important. Animals cannot communicate their suffering verbally, but validated quality of life tools assess pain, appetite, mobility, hygiene, and enjoyment. The welfare principle is clear: prolonging life at the cost of sustained suffering is not compassionate. Decisions made with veterinary guidance and evidence-based assessment rather than solely from grief minimise the risk of extending suffering.