I have my long haired chihuahua mix male (15) not fixed, Kiko. He has been through a lot this last 6 months. Punctured eye with flap repair, 7 infected teeth removal, and large tumor removal from his cheek. It was touch and go for a couple weeks but he pulled through. Then we realized he might have Canine dementia ( he would stand and stare at walls for long periods of time). And for the last 3 months it’s been a challenge to feed him, since his appetite has severely decreased. We have to stay with him while he has his dementia episodes of barking at his food for 30 minutes, to the point where he only eats once a day a very minimal amount. He drinks water and walks around, but sleeps most of the day. To my horror I saw him napping in his bed right now and couldn’t help but notice it looks like one of his anal glands ruptured. I’m taking him to the vet as soon as it opens. He’s not in any physical signs of pain, but I’m not sure if it’s because of his dementia he shows pain differently?

I had a dog recently go through anal gland removal surgery and it was rough, but he’s a younger ( 11) and more healthier dog with a great appetite. But still left us with a bill of 1500$ I’m still paying off

I guess I’m wondering if I’m torturing my oldest dog by wanting to proceed with the anal gland surgery. A part of me wants him around but. Half of me thinks maybe he should be put to rest.

Conflicted. What to do? TLDR: my 15 year dementia old dog who has already gone through a lot this year, is getting weaker and I don’t know if I should put him through another surgery, or put him down to rest.