[mscat]

I am very sorry your family has to make a decision such as this one. If your dog continues to decline in he health and is obviously suffering, I would have a family meetng with your husband and son present, discuss the issue openly and honestly and allow your son to express his feelings regarding the dog and in his own words. Allow how to talk about it, and then comfort him if he breaks down or becomes very emotional, explain the best way you can in regards of your dogs illness, and which way to proceed. Allow him to be part of the process, I think that when time comes it will be easier on your son if you include him, I do not know how old your son is, but do know children can have incredible insight from their own perspective. I have a adult autistic son with intellectual delays, he will soon turn 19, and is about on a 8 yr old level. We experienced a loss when a elderly woman died, that was my brother granmother, only 3 days later their beloved dog died. I assisted them in getting their dog and found her on craigslist for them to adopt around 5-6 yrs ago, the dog was already about 7 yrs old. My son on his own , told me that the dog is in heaven with Ivy, the name of grandma, and that is why she died too, so she could be with Ivy. It was very touching. Ivy husband was having a very tough time losin his wife then dog, so a couple weeks later adopted a dog from the animal shelter. They came to me asking for assistance , and I suggested go to the animal shelter in town. He came home with a small brown dog, that he absolutely loves.
If your ailing dog is not in pain , but her quality of life has diminished so much she is unable to function anymore, such as use the bathroom on her own, and clearly suffering, then I would consider letting her go and rest in peace. That is only my opinion.