Is it time to say goodbye :-(

I have a 12 yr old staff who has had very little visits to the vets and no serious problems but has started slowing down, struggling to get about, starts coughing and has a rattle like sound in his throat when he gets the slightest bit excited or breathless ... He is going bald and doesn't look in the best of moods :-( do I pay through the teeth and go to the vets and see if he is treatable and find out what is wrong or do I face facts that he is old done his day and it would be the kindest thing to do to get him put to sleepies.... I don't know if he is in pain though so I am taking a trip to the local drop in clinic for senior dogs for a little advice.... Anyone have any advice please?? As I love my baby boy muttley to pieces and have had him since a pup when I was 17 I'm now 29 and will be lost without him x

If definitely get him checked by the vet it may very well be something simple, please keep us updated perhaps you could come say hi :- https://staffy-bull-terrier.niceboard.com/f7-new-member-introductions

I would pay through the nose to get my dog fully checked out before making any decisions like you talk about here . Of course they slow down as they get old , but as the saying goes there's life in the old dog

as long as the vet says he is not suffering then a big Yes to get him treated,i would beg steal and borrow to get sasha sorted,you have had 12 years with him,with a bit of treatment from your vet you could have many more  

12 is not very old to be honest. Breathing problems usually indicate a heart problem which with a tablet a day is perfectly curable.

Hayley is right I would suspect a heart problem, tell your vet the same symptoms you told us!

You really do have to get a professional opinion before any decision is made. It may be very treatable.  

It is always hard when we see our beloved dog starting to show the effects of old age, and I'm glad to learn that you are taking him to your local drop in clinic for senior dogs - please do let us know what their thoughts are.

Chances are that with some medication (if necessary) and adjustments to his lifestyle may give him more happy years with you.

Best wishes and  s to you both - looking forward to hearing more from you.

Oh my, just cause they get older is by no means a time to give up! Its when you step in and look after them for a change