End-of-life decisions for companion animals are among the most difficult owners face, and quality-of-life assessment frameworks help ensure that animal welfare guides these decisions.
End-of-life care for companion animals represents one of the most profound responsibilities of pet ownership. The availability of euthanasia — a peaceful, pain-free death — is a gift we can give animals that is not available to most humans. Ensuring that this option is used when suffering becomes unmanageable, rather than delayed for human emotional reasons, is the ultimate expression of animal-centered welfare commitment. Quality-of-life scales provide structured frameworks that help owners and veterinarians have difficult conversations from a welfare perspective. Good death is part of good welfare.