AITA if I don’t want to euthanize my dog who has cancer?

A Reddit user shared their heartbreaking dilemma about whether to euthanize their beloved 15-year-old Labrador, Jimmy, who is battling cancer and in declining health. While their siblings believe euthanasia is the compassionate choice, the user feels torn and wants to let nature take its course.

The conflict has caused tension within their family, leaving the user struggling with guilt and the weight of their decision. To read more about their story and the responses they’ve received, see the full post below…

‘ AITA if I don’t want to euthanize my dog who has cancer?’

Jimmy, our 15-year-old family Labrador, has been with us for so long that I can’t imagine life without him. Over the past year, he’s been battling cancer, and his health has declined significantly. He’s lethargic, barely eats, struggles to move, and has lost most of his sight and hearing. Despite all of this, I can’t bring myself to make the decision to euthanize him.

My brother and sister strongly believe we should euthanize Jimmy, arguing it’s the compassionate thing to do. I understand their perspective, but I feel torn. I want to hold on to him for as long as possible, even though I know he’s in pain. The vet says he doesn’t have much time left, and part of me wants to let nature take its course.

This disagreement has caused tension in our family, leaving me in a constant state of stress and guilt. I don’t want Jimmy to suffer, but I also don’t want to make a decision I’m not emotionally ready for. AITA for wanting to wait for Jimmy to pass naturally instead of euthanizing him?

Here’s the comments of Reddit users:

Kombix −  YTA. You’re keeping Jimmy alive not for his, but for your own sake. There’s no quality in life for him. Let him rest please.

FantasticCabinet2623 −  Dude. YTA. Your poor dog is suffering, in pain, with a s**t quality of life, and you want to prolong his misery? For what? Your own selfishness, that’s what. Get over yourself and do what’s right for Jimmy, not you.

Pretend-Pint −  YTA Do you want to die slowly, painfully and alone (cause it’s the middle of the night and your family is fast asleep) or would you prefer to get high and slowly drift away surrounded by the people you love after having some of your favorite treats? Your dog is already dying, why do you want him to suffer, it’s a really selfish thing to do.

FryOneFatManic −  YTA A natural d**th doesn’t mean it’ll be peaceful. Please do the right thing.

Consistent-Tree6802 −  In the kindest way possible, YTA. It’s our duty to ensure the animals we’re so lucky to share our lives with, are not allowed to suffer. Your dog is suffering, you need to do the right thing. Sending you all my love, it’s the worst decision to have to make, but it has to be done xxx

NixKlappt-Reddit −  YTA For our vet it was an important sign, if a pet still wants to eat or not. Don’t let your dog suffer. You will lose him either way. If you love him, you need to decide what is best for your dog.

hip_hop_sweetheart −  YTA – You’re making your dog suffer for your own selfish reasons. Animals are so innocent and loving. They’ll hang on for a long time when they could be at peace. ☹️

Lanternestjerne −  YTA.. Your dog has been suffering a long time, your dog loved you unconditionally.. Show it respect and love back. I know it is difficult, and that is has been family for so long.. Look into your dogs eyes… Look at the pain.

Turbulent_Ebb5669 −  Yes. Because we only really have the opportunity to help our four legged love ones when they need our help for peace. Yes it hurts, but letting them go in your arms feeling safe and loved is a gift.

birdparty44 −  YTA. You’re caring about your own emotional attachment, not what’s best for him.