Having to end your pet's life may be the hardest decision you may have to make.

Euthanasia is a subject many people don't want to talk about until they have to. Performed properly and for the right reason, it may be the most satisfying and selfless act that you may ever perform. To end a pet's suffering is a very noble act of kindness.

Deciding to euthanize a pet is a highly personal decision that must be based on facts and gut feeling. There is no feeling worse than "putting a pet to sleep" and later regretting it. Occasionally, clients call me several months later to ask me if they made the right decision after euthanizing their pets.

There is no feeling worse than believing that you didn't do everything you could have done for your pet or that you made the wrong decision. Therefore, it is important to be confident in your mind and in your heart that you are making the best decision possible for your beloved companion.

When faced with the decision, people often ask their veterinarians, "What would you do if it were your pet?"

As a veterinarian, I never make this decision for the pet owner, but I help guide them based on facts about the disease and discuss quality-of-life issues.

When is it time?

The most popular answer is when the bad days outnumber the good days. However, that can be hard for some people to decide. Pets are voiceless, and they can't always tell us when its

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"time." We have to make the decision for them, and here are some criteria many people use:

1. Can your pet eat and drink normally? Can it urinate and defecate without assistance?

2. Is your pet enjoying the activities it's used to? Does it greet you when you see it? Does it still play and enjoy walking?

3. Is your pet in pain often? Is the pain adequately controlled?

4. Does your pet interact with you and the family? Does it recognize you?

As hard as it is to consider, you must also weigh the financial costs of continued treatment of your pet. Do not feel guilty if you can't afford expensive treatments. There are many people who can't, and it doesn't mean you love your pet any less.

Ask your veterinarian questions about what the long-term picture looks like.

You should also consider what is best for your family as well as your pet.

Are you ready to make the decision now? What will make you be at peace regarding the decision?

The decision to euthanize a pet is difficult. It can be made easier by preparing yourself and discussing the procedure ahead of time with your veterinary hospital.

For many pet owners, losing a pet is like losing a family member.

I know how much you love your pet. I see it all the time.

I hope that you will find the strength to do the right thing when you are faced with this difficult decision.

Raj Salwan, a second-generation veterinarian, has been in veterinary medicine for more than 21 years. He works at American Animal Care Center in Fremont and can be reached via e-mail at drsalwan@aol.com.