Hi everyone, 
I wasn’t able to find a topic for this. So either I would have had to start a new topic or post here where some of you guys know my story and know Ricco.
I haven’t posted in a long time, it’s been a crazy ride. We moved to Switzerland Dec. 2021 and my Pup, some of you remember Ricco, was diagnosed with intestinal cancer October 20,21 basically given us 2-4 weeks to say goodbye. I died a little on the inside and was weighing all of my options including not going to Switzerland. We were going for yearly shots and a health certificate to move from Germany to Switzerland. Needless to say shock diagnosis right before a huge move. We decided on emergency surgery and I won’t bore you with details but after grieving for a month, here we are over a year later. And I thank God everyday.
He’s a 12 year old Doberman-Schnauzer mix and has just been diagnosed with Cushings disease… I’ve never heard of this but good news his cancer never came back 
he is going to get medication for reducing his cortisone levels as he has also kidney stones and enlarged kidneys. Side effect more than likely will be problems with his hind legs walking, which he has already experienced for the past year because of muscle deterioration. Meaning he will on top of that medication and thyroid medication, that he has been getting for years, also be getting pain medications.
Anyways I’m so sorry for rambling, my initial question is to all of you who have lost a pet, or have had to put one down… At what point did you decide it was time?
Did the dog let you know?
I’m struggling with this so much, not for my own gains, but for his well-being.
He has deteriorated noticeably within the last month and I am the only one who is aware of this. He’s been by my side for over ten years and has now lived in 3 countries. I know when he has a good day and a bad day.
He might have a bad hour or two, and then be right back to being the Ricco we all know. So I am asking you guys for advice on when to know that it’s time. 
Of course my family and everybody else says don’t make him suffer and that is not my intention at all but I can look into his eyes and I see that he still wants to live…
Like I said I haven’t posted here in forever but this community has actually helped me get sober and as I was doing the dishes earlier and wondering who can i even ask for advice on this, the vet? Who is going to help me make this decision? It won’t be my family…
And all of the sudden the thought came to my mind sober time community!!!
So i do feel very much guided here and please don’t hold back. I know it’s a touchy and devastating subject, but as pet owners we all know we have to go through this eventually. This will be my first time and I honestly just want what is best for him, but can’t stand the thought of making that decision when he is not ready. 
