Our German shorthaired pointer was about 16 when she reached the point you describe with your whippet. Nothing worked, she was always uncomfortable. Like Big Mick says, whether you have her euthanized or not, the situation will be equally painful. Consider the expense of it a necessary price to be sure that it is done properly, with respect and the least discomfort for the pooch.

Daniel Pinkwater read an essay on NPR back in about 1988 that I've never forgotten, the story of when he had to put down his malamute Arnold. I was standing in the kitchen cooking dinner, tears running down my face. It is now published in a book called Uncle Boris in the Yukon, and Other Shaggy Dog Stories. Linda Wertheimer was the news reader that night and after his commentary ended you could tell she was crying as she announced a station break. Find a copy of this and read it as part of that ceremony for your dog. You'll find yourself in the company of a fellow dog-lover.

SRS