No matter how much we want them to, pets unfortunately don't live forever.
But they're often a huge part of the family, and so it can really help owners to understand the signs that a beloved dog might be nearing the end of their life, as it can help with the mental preparation.
To help with this, leading vet Dr Sean McCormack from tails.com has lifted the lid on some physical signs that your pet may be getting ready to say goodbye, and how you can make them as comfortable as possible.
Dr McCormack told the Mirror: "Often things are put down to 'just old age' when in fact they can be indicators your dog is beginning to suffer or experience a poorer quality of life that we'd like them to have.
"Behaviours like becoming more withdrawn, interacting less, sleeping more, not enjoying play or other activities they used to or not wanting to go on long walks.
"Also physical symptoms like struggling to get up or cover great distances, to get out of the car or going up steps.
"All of these can be signs of pain but also maybe that they are just not feeling well or enjoying life anymore.
"The important thing is to work with your vet as soon as you notice these changes and there are very often things that can be done to alleviate pain or tackle any issues and maintain quality of life for much longer than if these things are ignored."
How do I prepare myself to say goodbye?
Dr McCormack suggests talking to your vet about timescales and when to consider putting your pet to sleep.
The experts will be able to talk you through how to prepare for this, and recommend that you spend a lot of time with them in their final days, keeping them comfortable.
The vet added: "We often say that the most important thing at the end is quality of life, not quantity.
"I've rarely met an owner who regrets putting their elderly, unwell pet to sleep a day or two too early.
"But plenty who have regretted clinging on to them for a day or two longer than they should have, because they were finding it hard to let go themselves."
What happens during euthanasia?
Dr McCormack says that euthanasia is an overdose of anaesthetic so that your pet goes unconscious and doesn't wake up.
It's often an injection into a vein in your pet's leg, and if they seem agitated, a sedative can be given beforehand.
It's important to know that the injection doesn't hurt, but your pet may "make a noise" as they start to lose consciousness.
The vet said: "This isn't unpleasant, they just feel a bit of an odd sensation, perhaps even pleasant but confusing as the drug takes effect. And then their heart rate and breathing slows right down and they pass away.
"Afterwards their bladder may empty or their body may take one or two deep gasps which can be alarming if you are not prepared for that.
"But this is a sign they have passed away, not in any way a sign of distress. You can choose to stay with them, but if it's too difficult for you don't worry.
"Your vet team will treat them with the utmost kindness and respect and talk to them as they go."
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