Saying goodbye to a beloved dog

[Castlerock]

Tomorrow morning I have to take our beloved Tomo to be euthanized. Friday night she was admitted to the hospital for kidney failure. We took her home this afternoon to say our goodbyes. She just fell asleep. My wife is sleeping on the floor with her and I am crying as I write this. I don't know how I'm going to do it.

Goodbye, my friend. You will be dearly missed.

[DaddyTorgo]

Noooooooooooooo.

My condolences.

[Chief Rum]

Tomorrow morning I have to take our beloved Tomo to be euthanized. Friday night she was admitted to the hospital for kidney failure. We took her home this afternoon to say our goodbyes. She just fell asleep. My wife is sleeping on the floor with her and I am crying as I write this. I don't know how I'm going to do it.

Goodbye, my friend. You will be dearly missed.

:(

Sorry to read you and your wife going through this. I love my dogs, and neither are young. I keep wondering how long I have with them.

As sad as tomorrow will be, remember that you and your wife gave Tomo a home and a good life he would not have had without you, and I would imagine he loves you both with all his heart.

[samifan24]

So sorry to hear about your loss. Our pets are a beloved part of our families. My condolences.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I'm sorry to hear this. I still remember when I had to take my first dog in to put her to sleep. I was 20 and she'd been my best friend since I was 5 years old. One of the hardest things I've ever had to do.

Good luck. Remember, as hard as it it's going to be for you and your family, you're doing what's best for your dog.

[bbor]

This always make me feel better.......

Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

-Author unknown

[law90026]

Sorry to hear this :(

[Schmidty]

My 12.5 year-old Rotty, Annie (the one I'm feeding steak to in the picture Subby posted) is starting to lose her back legs as far as walking and such goes. She stumbles a lot, and we have a ramp for her to get outside. We're dreading the moment she can't walk anymore. I don't how people can take this stuff, but I guess it's better to have their love and the memories, than it is to not have them at all.

I'll be praying for you and your dog.

[Lorena]

Aww... so sorry :(

[Swaggs]

Very sad to see this. As I have said a few times before, the worst thing about owning a pet is that you know that you will almost certainly outlive them. Take your time to grieve, but feel good knowing that you gave a nice home and a lot of love to your pet.

And thanks for your post, bbor. I had never seen that before, but it is a nice read and I hope it is true! :)

[PilotMan]

My 12.5 year-old Rotty, Annie (the one I'm feeding steak to in the picture) is starting to lose her back legs as far as walking and such goes. She stumbles a lot, and we have a ramp for her to get outside. We're dreading the moment she can't walk anymore. I don't how people can take this stuff, but I guess it's better to have their love and the memories, than it is to not have them at all.

I'll be praying for you and your dog.


Our Greyhound, Boyd, is in exactly the same position. Same age, and same problem. His last physical, the vet said that his kidneys were starting to fail, along with a large tumor around his hip we can only assume is cancer, and not just a fatty tumor. We have had Boyd for 10 years, and he has lived longer than I ever thought. He cries a lot more now, but still manages to jump the three steps up our deck outside.

My wife and I know that he probably won't make Christmas. We have been taking turns petting him, loving him and thanking him. I am going to cry when his time comes. He hasn't been a real loving dog, but he has always been there, sleeping. He has a sweet temperament and kind eyes.

We are just trying to remember that we gave him a good life, and he has been happy with us all these years. I don't know what my other dog is going to do. She will miss him too. It's going to be sad. I am so sorry about your loss. Try and stay positive, and remember all the great that you gave and received.

[Lathum]

We learned recently our guy has cancer and only has a short time. I broke down big time the day we found out. So sorry for your loss. They really are family members.

[Crapshoot]

Shit, they're better than family members - how often do you get into fights with them? :D My sister sent me a picture of waking up this morning to finding the dog sleeping on her foot, looking at her; how do you match that kind of affection?

Good luck Castlerock. Nothing more one can say.

[SackAttack]

My parents had to put my dog down in January, and it still hits me hard in unexpected ways. I'll tell you, one thing that has given me great comfort is a recent Dean Koontz book, "A Big Little Life."

It's a memoir of his dog, who I gather passed in 2007, but there was a lot of resonance there for me. Helped me to see and remember some of the good times with my own dog that I hadn't really remembered in the aftermath of losing Max.

It's been almost 8 months, and I still went through plenty of tissue getting through that book, but unlike 8 months ago, it was more remembrance and catharsis than grief.

I don't know if I could have handled that book 8 months ago, so I don't know if I can recommend you read it with any immediacy, but put it on your list somewhere down the road.

And give Tomo a hug for me. Both of the last two dogs I've lost, I didn't get that opportunity to say goodbye. I envy you that much, even as I offer my heartfelt condolences.

[Qrusher14242]

I'm so sorry to hear you have to go through this.

Its been over a year since i had to put my dog Peppy down. He was sick, but he could still move around a little, but he had gone blind and deaf. It still hits me sometimes, if i see a picture of him. Or if i see another Yorkie. But i just know hes in a better place. I havent got another dog yet, mostly cause i've been sick a lot this year, but i think i will get one soon from a shelter.

[RainMaker]

Truly sorry. I've been there before and know how devestating it is. No words can ease the pain, but just remember the great moments you had and feel blessed that you had her in your life.

Sorry to hear about your loss. I get teary eyed everytime I read one of these. :(

[JetsIn06]

Crap, I hate hearing things like this so much.

Sorry Castle, and sorry Lathum. :( And anyone else who ever has to go through something like this.

[JetsIn06]

dola

Sorry to you as well, PM.

[Poli]

Sorry for your losses, guys. My pug, Snuggles, is with my ex-wife and having a few issues herself. It's difficult for me since I don't see her much at all. I miss my little SnuggleGirl.

[CleBrownsfan]

:(

[MizzouRah]

Sad news.. :( RIP good friend...

[Marc Vaughan]

Sorry to hear this.

[M GO BLUE!!!]

:(

[Castlerock]

Tomo: August 8, 1996 - September 14, 2009
http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/5830/p80700181.jpg

[GoldenEagle]

I am sorry for your loss.

[DaddyTorgo]

awwww

*tears up*

my lil guy is 8 already. i dunno what i'm going to do in 5-6 years. seems like it'll be here so soon.

[boberot]

Beautiful dog, man. Beautiful.

I cherish the memories I have of Sheba, the dog I grew up with.

That's all I can offer right now -- once the grief and pain subside, you will have those amazing memories and stories to share.

[Poli]

Rest in peace, Tomo.

[JediKooter]

Sorry to hear about Tomo Castlerock. Not an easy thing to go through for sure.

[BYU 14]

I kept avoiding this thread because I knew it would tear me up, but as much as I love my Dogs I had to send my condolences. Tomo is beautiful and I can't imagine what you are going through right now. Hopefully the pain will be eased somewhat knowing you gave Tomo a wonderful life and by remembering the joy she brought to you.

Dogs are truly amazing Animals that are so full of unconditional love for their families. I am very sorry for your loss Castlerock.

RIP Tomo

[JetsIn06]

:(:(:(:(

[CleBrownsfan]

Hope Tomo and my dog Bailey are able to play in doggie heaven...

Sorry Castlerock for your loss - RIP Tomo

[Poli]

Sorry for your losses, guys. My pug, Snuggles, is with my ex-wife and having a few issues herself. It's difficult for me since I don't see her much at all. I miss my little SnuggleGirl.
I received a call tonight that Snuggles has a tumor that is 75% likely to be cancerous and likely inoperable. :(

[Flasch186]

:(

[DaddyTorgo]

nooo...not Snuggles!!!

[RendeR]

Gah, this takes me back to high scholl when my cat developed cancer in his kidney's. Poor thing was in constant pain and I had to have him put down. =(

I'm so glad our current pets are all fairly young and in excellent health.

Sorry for your losses guys =(

[terpkristin]

I avoided this thread because I knew it'd make me cry....alas, I was right.

Losing a pet sucks. There is no other way to put it. RIP, Tomo, and I'm really sorry to hear about Snuggles, AE.

:(

Off to go hug the Oz-man...until I remember that he prefers to be the one that initiates cuteness. ;)

/tk

[Edward64]

We put our dalmation to sleep last December. Cremated her and planted a small plum tree with her ashes and doggie collar. Tree is doing great.

The tree helped us with our loss.

[path12]

Missed this thread the first time around. Condolences to all who have/are losing their pets. I gave my dog an extra hug this morning.

[DaddyTorgo]

Condolences to all who have/are losing their pets. I gave my dog an extra hug this morning.

me too. i snuggled mine ferociously last night.

[gkb]

Losing a pet just sucks. I'm sorry that you had to let Tomo go.

[Poli]

Confirmed this morning. Snuggles does have cancer. :(

[path12]

Sorry to hear that, Poli.

[MizzouRah]

Confirmed this morning. Snuggles does have cancer. :(

Sorry to hear that buddy.. :(

[Lathum]

Sorry Poli. I'm going through that with my guy also and it sucks.

[Poli]

The hard part for me is not being able to spend the time with her that I would like.

[Poli]

Thank you, baby, for being so strong and giving us three more months. I love you, my sweet, sweet, Snuggles.

[BYU 14]

Thank you, baby, for being so strong and giving us three more months. I love you, my sweet, sweet, Snuggles.

So sorry Rodney, hopefully you were able to get soe quality time during this time.

[Castlerock]

So sorry, Poli.

[Lathum]

Sorry Rodney :(, been way to many of these threads lately.

[DaddyTorgo]

what lathum said - way too many of these threads lately. sorry rodney :(

[MizzouRah]

:(

[jaygr]

I hate to pile another one on. We lost our Golden Retriever on Monday. He had just turned 9. He had no signs of illness and the day before he was normal. But on Monday morning he was really slow and weak and we had to rush him to the Vet. He died from internal bleeding, which we later found was caused by tumors on his spleen and liver. The Vet actually went in and found the tumors after Jake passed to find out what caused the bleeding. We previously had no idea he had any issues, and as I said up until the day before he was perfectly fine.

We'll miss him a lot. Even tough he was a huge dog (not fat, just big. He was actually quite fit), I think he was the most gentle dog I've ever met. I was really looking forward to how he was going to do with our first child. It was so sudden that I don't think he suffered, but it certainly was a very hurtful shock for us. It was a surprise too because even though was getting a older, especially for a large dog, he was doing great. I really expected him to be around a lot longer considering how healthy he seemed.

[Lathum]

Jaygr, that sucks and hits home hard for me. We have a golden who is almost 12. He is the best dog you could ever ask for, we just had a friend over with her 19 month old and he was so sweet and gentle with her. Even though she was a little rough with him as kids can be, he just laid on his side and let her pet him and gave her kisses. We are expecting a child in April, and I hope he makes it long enough to develop a relationship. He has cancer, cataracts, bad hips and suffers from seizures, but still always has a great attitude and disposition.

[claphamsa]

Sorry Rodney :(, been way to many of these threads lately.
I was just thinking that as well :(

[DaddyTorgo]

i lost my first golden after...8 or 9 years (i had her since i was a baby) when I was just a little kid. Grand mal seizures in the middle of the night and my parents took her off to the vet while i was still asleep and didn't even wake me. still miss that dog to this day.

[Poli]

I have had to deal with hives the past two days which I have to believe are stress induced.

I absolutely hate that I had to make the decision to put our girl down. I feel terrible. Just terrible. I wish I could have taken her place. :(

[DaddyTorgo]

awww poli

[Castlerock]

The Last Battle

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this, the last battle, can't be won.

You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.

Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end

And hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree,
It is a kindness you do to me.

Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must be you,
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close,we two, these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

Author Unknown

[Poli]

Thanks, Castle, that was really nice.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs241.snc1/8834_1248912708787_1408532268_721018_7412824_n.jpg
(http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs241.snc1/8834_1248912708787_1408532268_721018_7412824_n.jpg)

[PilotMan]

Our Greyhound, Boyd, is in exactly the same position. Same age, and same problem. His last physical, the vet said that his kidneys were starting to fail, along with a large tumor around his hip we can only assume is cancer, and not just a fatty tumor. We have had Boyd for 10 years, and he has lived longer than I ever thought. He cries a lot more now, but still manages to jump the three steps up our deck outside.

My wife and I know that he probably won't make Christmas. We have been taking turns petting him, loving him and thanking him. I am going to cry when his time comes. He hasn't been a real loving dog, but he has always been there, sleeping. He has a sweet temperament and kind eyes.

We are just trying to remember that we gave him a good life, and he has been happy with us all these years. I don't know what my other dog is going to do. She will miss him too. It's going to be sad. I am so sorry about your loss. Try and stay positive, and remember all the great that you gave and received.

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v331/219/74/758959647/n758959647_658685_9238.jpg
It looks like decision time has finally come. Boyd made it to Christmas but the last 2 weeks have seen a steady decline. He looks like a dog skeleton and has lost weight. It's sad. I know the decision is a hard one, but I would say that at the best he probably has 2 weeks on his own. We are going to talk to the vet this week. I can't see too many scenarios where we don't end it honestly. This will be the first death that we have had to deal with as a family. It's not going to be easy at all. I don't know how the boys (14,8,6) are going to handle it. It's not going to be easy at all. We have been saying goodbye. I did a long survey to get a good idea of this true age:

Boyd's DogAge is 89.3!
That's 14.4 years older than the average DogAge for Boyd's breed.

That's impressive for any dog.

[Lathum]

Godspeed Boyd. I am hoping our 12 year old golden makes it unroll the baby is born in April.

This thread makes me sick

[DaddyTorgo]

this thread makes me cry

[CraigSca]

Just put down our cat yesterday. Been with him for 15 years - longer than I've been married and the kids have never had a home without our cat. My wife always joked that he thought I was his "Mom" and I guess I was. He was a good friend and would just sit there, watch me, and want to be with me 24 hours a day.

I felt bad for the animal hospital. If they had any other customers while we were in there (frankly, I was oblivious to a lot of things yesterday), I'm sure they were wondering why 4 people (me, my wife and two kids) were in there crying uncontrollably.

No more pets for me, thanks.

[SnowMan]

The Last Battle

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this, the last battle, can't be won.

You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.

Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end

And hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree,
It is a kindness you do to me.

Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must be you,
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close,we two, these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

Author Unknown

That's great, thank you.

[RainMaker]

No more pets for me, thanks.
Same boat. Putting my dog down literally destroyed me. Was in a depression for a good month and still get sad everytime I see a Beagle. Probably makes me sound like a pussy but I just don't know if I could handle going through that again.

[PilotMan]

:( Today has been hard.

[Lathum]

ugh, not another one

[Glengoyne]

this thread makes me cry
+1

[General Mike]

R.I.P. Blizzard

http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs366.snc3/23595_1227403161410_1118990787_30533623_3366066_n.jpg

[Lathum]

:(

[Castlerock]

So sorry General Mike.

[General Mike]

I feel so bad about having to put him to sleep, but his quality of life wasn't good anymore. His hips were shot, he couldn't see and I think his hearing was going too. He'd fall down on the kitchen floor and wasn't able to get enough traction to get himself up.

[JediKooter]

I can only read this thread every now and then :(

I'm sorry for everyone's loss and it's obvious that they were all loved very much.

[Rizon]

Girlfriend's roommate put his cat down yesterday. 18 1/2 years old.

[Silver Owl]

I'm going to go hug my dog.

[DaddyTorgo]

I just snuggled mine.

Sorry for your loss GeneralMike.

[molson]

I feel so bad about having to put him to sleep, but his quality of life wasn't good anymore. His hips were shot, he couldn't see and I think his hearing was going too. He'd fall down on the kitchen floor and wasn't able to get enough traction to get himself up.

It was definitely time. That was your last (of many, I'm sure) loving acts towards him.

[SegRat]

Sorry to hear it G. Mike. Putting down my dog a month ago was one of the hardest things I have ever gone through. It still hurts.

[MizzouRah]

Oh no.. GM! Looks just like my American Eskimo - Boo Boo

I'm so sorry... :(

[General Mike]

Oh no.. GM! Looks just like my American Eskimo - Boo Boo

I'm so sorry... :(

Blizzard was a Samoyed. We got him from the animal shelter in the town we live in when Blizzard was about 4 years old or so. I don't know how someone could let such a beautiful dog run away or whatever.

[Poli]

I'm sorry for your loss, Mike. :(

[MizzouRah]

Blizzard was a Samoyed. We got him from the animal shelter in the town we live in when Blizzard was about 4 years old or so. I don't know how someone could let such a beautiful dog run away or whatever.

Beautiful dog!!!

[PilotMan]

I am sorry Mike, the loss of Boyd is still very fresh for us. Our other dog, Echo, keeps waiting for him to come home.

[path12]

I hate this thread. :(

Sorry, Mike. Blizzard was a good lookin' boy.

[Lathum]

Well, things not looking so great for Bernie.

Couple of days ago he seemed tired and was drinking a lot. We were taking him to the vet anyway for an ear infection. The did some blood tests and found a thyroid problem and elevated white blood cells. Gave him some antibiotics and thyroid meds.

This was 3 days ago. He still isn't feeling well. Now he isn't eating and refused a treat for the first time I can ever remember. Also pooped in the house again today. He is walking really slow and just laying around doing nothing.

We called the vet today and they said the antibiotics should be working by now so we are bringing him in tomorrow. They are going to do an x-ray and check for tumors. They say there is a medicine they can give him if it is to buy him a few months but the way he is now I have doubts he will make it through the night, and TBH this is no kind of life for him.

The bottom line is he is 12 and has had a good life, I am just afraid he will be making a one way trip tomorrow. It's just that the timing couldn't be any worse.

[DaddyTorgo]

NOoooooooooooooooo Lathum.:cry:

I'm pulling for him.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I freakin' hate this thread, not that it's here for us but that we need it to be here for us.

It always sucks, it always hurts and my sincere condolences go to everyone who has to go through this, I couldn't bring myself to wish this particular sort of loss on anybody.

[RainMaker]

I'm sorry Lathum. Fingers crossed that it's not as bad as it seems.

[Honolulu_Blue]

That sucks, Latham. Hang in there.

[General Mike]

Bernie will be in my thoughts tonight Lathum. Give him a big hug for me.

[BYU 14]

Sorry to hear Lathum, keeping Bernie in my thoughts and hoping it is not as serious as it seems. Hang in there.

[Lathum]

:(

Thanks everyone, sadly I think it is official.

The one thing the vet asked us was if he was throwing up and they continued to tell us the fact that he wasn't is a good sign. Well, took him for a walk and he came up and drank a ton of water then proceeded to throw it all up plus the last meal he ate. He obviously is in very poor shape. Not ready to throw in the towel but midnight is approaching fast for him, and what really sucks is tomorrow is my birthday.

[DaddyTorgo]

Yeah - I didn't want to mention that part of it either Lathum - that hardly seems fair. I'm sorry to hear that- it's been a long road with Bernie. Soon he'll be at peace though I imagine, and you've made a huge difference in his quality of life here lately.

Give him a hug for all of us and treasure the rest of the night.

[CleBrownsfan]

Sorry to here about your loss Lathum - it's never easy losing a part of the family :(

[Castlerock]

Every time I see this thread bumped, I say "Oh no".

So sorry, Lathum.

[Passacaglia]

:(

Thanks everyone, sadly I think it is official.

The one thing the vet asked us was if he was throwing up and they continued to tell us the fact that he wasn't is a good sign. Well, took him for a walk and he came up and drank a ton of water then proceeded to throw it all up plus the last meal he ate. He obviously is in very poor shape. Not ready to throw in the towel but midnight is approaching fast for him, and what really sucks is tomorrow is my birthday.

That sucks Lathum. Especially with all the other good news going on in your life. It was the same with us -- we found out that our cat, Keebler, had cancer on the day of our ultrasound, where we found out our baby was a boy.

It gets easier, which may not be what you want to hear, because you might not want it to get easier. Sorry to hear about it -- we're all here for you.

[molson]

Whatever happens, he's definitely a lucky dog that had a very lucky life.

[BrianD]

I don't know if this will help, but you could always write or blog about Bernie. I started a blog about my cats as a way to reminisce about a semi-recently passed friend and to chronicle the joy of our other cats while they are still with us. Finding a way to put your love out into the world can be very therapeutic.

[Lathum]

Well....

We had him at the vet all day today. They took some x-rays to determine if it was cancer and nothing definitive came back which I guess is good. They noticed his liver was having some problems so they are changing the antibiotic he was on thinking that may be it. To combat the not eating they gave me an appetite stimulant and an anti-nausea medication.

The vet thinks this could be the problem but cautioned us to not be overly optimistic, but we wanted to try all options within reason. I am very happy to have him home and pray this works.

Thank you all for the support, it means more than you guys know, being able to put things into words helps collect my thoughts. Bernie thanks you guys also.

[Dr. Sak]

I'm so sorry to hear this Lathum. I wish I could say something that could make it better. :(

[Poli]

:(

Thanks everyone, sadly I think it is official.

The one thing the vet asked us was if he was throwing up and they continued to tell us the fact that he wasn't is a good sign. Well, took him for a walk and he came up and drank a ton of water then proceeded to throw it all up plus the last meal he ate. He obviously is in very poor shape. Not ready to throw in the towel but midnight is approaching fast for him, and what really sucks is tomorrow is my birthday.

I'm so sorry. So very sorry.

[CleBrownsfan]

Crossing my fingers that your pup pulls through this little spell... keep us updated.

[DaddyTorgo]

I hope that's it and he gets a lil better Lathum. Keeping my fingers crossed for you - and for Bernie of course.

[SegRat]

Good luck man.

[BYU 14]

Definitely keeping him in my thoughts, sounds like there is now room for some optimism.

[MizzouRah]

Every time I see this thread bumped, I say "Oh no".

So sorry, Lathum.

+1

[Lathum]

We lost Bernie today. He was getting better than took a turn yesterday. We decided we didn't want to keep experimenting on him. He was having trouble walking and had a few seizures. It was just his time. He was a great dog and a great friend and will be sorely missed.


http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/183/n10852230531231895302.jpg (http://img685.imageshack.us/i/n10852230531231895302.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

[DaddyTorgo]

noooooo.

fuck...i'm sorry Lathum. that can't have been easy.

[MizzouRah]

So sorry Lathum :(

[JonInMiddleGA]

I'm very sorry for your loss Lathum, may Bernie rest in peace & happiness.

[Dr. Sak]

Lathum I am very sorry for your loss.

[CleBrownsfan]

:( So sorry Lathum...

[PilotMan]

I am so sorry Lathum. I am still dealing with the loss of Boyd, and know just how you are feeling today. Hang in there, brother.

[Castlerock]

So sorry to hear about Bernie.

[General Mike]

I'm sorry about Bernie. I still turn around from my computer, or walk in the front door expecting to see Blizzard behind me/ laying on the floor.

[Honolulu_Blue]

My folks had to put one of their dogs to sleep today.

Sergei, named after then Detroit Red Sergei Fedorov, was a great dog. He and his entire litter were put a tashbag and thrown into a river. Serge managed to claw his way out and was found freezing to death on the bank of the river.

Since those harrowing first few weeks, Sergei lived the next SEVENTEEN years like a prince.

I was already in college when we adopted Serge. We adopted him a few weeks after my dog of fifteen years, Mindy, was put to sleep. I still believe that getting Sergei so soon after Mindy passed was the best thing we ever did. He never replaced her, but he filled the void nicely.

Sergei was an odd looking dog. He looked like some cross between a Basset Hound and a yellow lab, he was long and short with big floppy ears.

Like I said, he lived like a prince. By the time we got him, my dad had really mellowed and loved that dog. My parents had their first "empty nest" a few years after we got Serge, so he was spoiled rotten.

He was a great dog and had a great life.

Good bye, old friend.

[BYU 14]

Very sorry to hear HB, but it sounds like he had a great life indeed.

And it never ceases to amaze me how people are so callous towards animals. To throw a litter of puppies into a river is beyond despicable.

RIP Sergei

[DaddyTorgo]

Sorry to hear about that HB.

I anticipate my parents losing our lil guy in the next 5 years or so...really not looking forward to it at all.

[PilotMan]

It's hard to lose a pet, especially one with such a storied and loved history. What a life you gave to one that was thrown away. Hang in there.

[Poli]

Thanks, Castle, that was really nice.

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs241.snc1/8834_1248912708787_1408532268_721018_7412824_n.jpg
(http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs241.snc1/8834_1248912708787_1408532268_721018_7412824_n.jpg)

Miss you, baby girl.

My fiance has heard enough about Snuggles that she'd like for us to have a dog when we get married. I just don't know how I can do it. When I was a kid, it was easy to replace a dog. I'm not sure I'm built with that ease any longer.

Has anyone else pulled the trigger on replacing their loved one?

[PilotMan]

Our other dog, who was also 12 when we put our Greyhound down last year, went into depression after he went away. She started getting really nervous when we would leave, and started being very anti-social. She would go hide under a bed all day long. She stopped eating and we were worried that she wouldn't last long, even though she was healthy.

We took her to the vet to see what was going on, and the vet told us that because she was the lead dog, and without anybody to lead that she felt useless, and didn't know where her place was. We tried to do some behavior work with her and while it did work to some extent it wasn't complete.

We ended up getting beagle from the pound, who my wife adores, but it naughty as sin, and after a while, our other dog came around. She is quite happy now, and seems to be back to her old self again.

Yes, dogs really do get depressed, just like people.

[Poli]

I was in a hurt locker last year due to Snuggles and other life issues. I broke out in hives right after her death and I swear it had everything to do with her passing.

[PilotMan]

I really hate to bump this thread.

We put our other dog to sleep this morning. She was 14 and had a number of health problems. It's something that has been in the process for some time. This morning she had something resembling a stroke just before the boys went to school. We told them to say their goodbye's and kept them home from school.

My oldest, who is 16, knows no time without her. He was her "puppy", she looked after him his whole life. He and are in the worst shape I think. I have had her since she was 8 weeks. Sleep well, Echo.

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/301516_2014707571360_1353941475_31711363_514173088_n.jpg

[Honolulu_Blue]

Super cute dog. Sorry to hear about this, Pilot Man. It's never easy.

[DaddyTorgo]

Damnit...I hate seeing this thread bumped. Sorry man.

FWIW - when I was a kid and we had to put down "my puppy" that I got when I was like 2 and grew up with (I think I was 11 or so at the time - golden...had seizure), it was in the middle of the night and my parents decided not to wake me up to let me say goodbye/come along to the vet.

To this day I still haven't forgiven them for that (and I'm tearing up right now thinking about it). So I think you definitely made the right decision with your boys as far as dealing with it.

[CleBrownsfan]

:(

Sorry to hear about your loss PM...

[Izulde]

Just got the news that my parents had to put down my dog, Bubba, today. I kind of knew it was coming after I talked to my mom last night and he was in really bad shape.

Still hurts, all the more because he was the first dog we ever had who was really my dog. He'd get so excited whenever I'd come home from being away at school or vacation, barking, racing through the house, jumping on me, and staying pressed close to my side. Loved Swedish Fish and could leap like no other dog I've seen (he cleared my dad's recliner and a tall fence my grandfather built to keep the dogs in).

Always hated leaving him to go back to school and it would always worry me when he got older that it'd be the last time I'd see him, so I made sure to hug him extra tight and long when I left. I promised him I'd come back as soon as I could.

Going to feel even stranger now the next time I go back, because now my parents have no dogs in their house, which I don't remember ever happening.

http://i341.photobucket.com/albums/o395/Izulde08/bubbaandme.jpg
Bubba and me - one of the few pictures I have of him. He hated having his picture taken, so I'm surprised he stood still for this one

[CrimsonFox]

Awwww sorry man. Awesome looking dog and obviously a great friend! *hugs cute dog*

[Honolulu_Blue]

That sucks, Izulde. Sorry for your loss.

[Sweed]

Sorry to hear of your loss.

[BYU 14]

Damn I hate seeing this thread bumped, always makes me teary. So sorry for your loss my friend.

And Bubba now has a place in my heart, cause you have to love a Dog that grubs on Swedish Fish!!

RIP Bubba.

[MizzouRah]

Didn't want to click on this thread.. so sorry Izulde. :(

[molson]

It always sucks to see this thread bumped but it's always a little bittersweet too - there's just stories and photos of great dogs in here that were cared for, respected, and had great lives. I especially know how hard that was to leave your dog behind with your parents as you went off to do your thing. But, that's too part of what makes dogs awesome, Bubba just had new great Izulde homecomings to look forward to and get excited about. That's like a bunch of extra Christmases in a dog's life.

[Castlerock]

I hate to see this thread bumped but I love reading the stories of beloved dogs. And a little part of Tomo and all the others stay alive with every bump.

So sorry Izulde and PilotMan.

[Dreghorn2]

Like everyone i hate seeing this thread bumped.

Very sorry at the loss of your friend.

[MizzouRah]

Our chocolate lab, Dozier has to be put to sleep tomorrow, his cancerous tumor has spread too fast and there is nothing the vet can do.

We love you Dozier and will miss you so very much. :(

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/9914/059ub.jpg

[PilotMan]

Tomorrow is going to be a hard day, and the days following it won't be easy. I'm feel for you having to do this. For one dog I didn't sleep much the night before. For the other I slept well knowing that even though I would miss her, it was her time, and she had better things to do and better places to go.

For both dogs it was their time. We are getting ready to celebrate Christmas for the first time in 13 years without my Echo. She always was right there in the middle of the pile of presents. She knew what was going on, and she knew that there were presents under the tree for her. She knew that many treats would be consumed that day, and that we would all be there talking, laughing, playing and paying attention to her. It was her favorite time of the year too.

I'm sorry that you have to do this MizzouRah, but I want you to know, I understand, and I feel for you. Hang in there, and make sure you tell him everything that you want to say. He was a great dog I'm sure. They all have a way of changing our lives.

[DaddyTorgo]

Awww man - sorry Mizzou

[Izulde]

Sorry, MizzouRah. :( Awesome picture of Dozier.

[TroyF]

It's a little over a year since my chocolate lab had to be put to rest. I still tear up thinking about the old guy. My thoughts are with you.

[molson]

Sorry to hear that. Glad you were able to give Dozier a great life. A dog wants most of all to be a real part of a family's life, and you were able to give him that great gift. It's a gift that will go on long beyond tomorrow, he'll always be a part of your family history.

[Sweed]

Sorry to hear MR. Take comfort in the fact you gave him a great life.

[MizzouRah]

Tomorrow is going to be a hard day, and the days following it won't be easy. I'm feel for you having to do this. For one dog I didn't sleep much the night before. For the other I slept well knowing that even though I would miss her, it was her time, and she had better things to do and better places to go.

For both dogs it was their time. We are getting ready to celebrate Christmas for the first time in 13 years without my Echo. She always was right there in the middle of the pile of presents. She knew what was going on, and she knew that there were presents under the tree for her. She knew that many treats would be consumed that day, and that we would all be there talking, laughing, playing and paying attention to her. It was her favorite time of the year too.

I'm sorry that you have to do this MizzouRah, but I want you to know, I understand, and I feel for you. Hang in there, and make sure you tell him everything that you want to say. He was a great dog I'm sure. They all have a way of changing our lives.

Thank you.. and Thank you everyone.. I can barely type, but the thoughts are much appreciated. :(

[path12]

Such a handsome dog, Mizzou. My condolences to you and yours.

[BYU 14]

Beautiful Dog Mizzou, pets are always such a big part of the family. Hang in there and know that you mean as much to Dozier as he means to you.

Very sorry for your loss.

[Lathum]

Sorry to hear, stay with him to the end. It sucks that your last act of love is so hard.

[Castlerock]

So sorry to hear about Dozier. He is a great looking dog. I already post this in this thread, but it's worth repeating.

The Last Battle

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this, the last battle, can't be won.

You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.

Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end

And hold me firm and speak to me,
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree,
It is a kindness you do to me.

Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must be you,
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close,we two, these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

Author Unknown

[MizzouRah]

That was great Castlerock.. I already miss him and keep wishing I could have done more for him.

[corbes]

Cassidy, 1998 - Dec. 22, 2011. A yellow lab who went blind at the age of two and deaf at the age of eleven and never once did anything with less than full enthusiasm and joy. A trusty companion and an inspiration to always go with the flow. She'll be missed.

[General Mike]

Every time this thread gets bumped, I cry.

Sorry MizzouRah and corbes.

[DaddyTorgo]

Cassidy, 1998 - Dec. 22, 2011. A yellow lab who went blind at the age of two and deaf at the age of eleven and never once did anything with less than full enthusiasm and joy. A trusty companion and an inspiration to always go with the flow. She'll be missed.

Aww man. My condolences to you too corbes

[DaddyTorgo]

Every time this thread gets bumped, I cry.

Sorry MizzouRah and corbes.

Yeah - seriously. Tearing up right now.

[molson]

Cassidy, 1998 - Dec. 22, 2011. A yellow lab who went blind at the age of two and deaf at the age of eleven and never once did anything with less than full enthusiasm and joy. A trusty companion and an inspiration to always go with the flow. She'll be missed.

Sorry to hear that. It's amazing how dogs can actually be so inspiring.

[MizzouRah]

Sad corbes :(

[BYU 14]

Cassidy, 1998 - Dec. 22, 2011. A yellow lab who went blind at the age of two and deaf at the age of eleven and never once did anything with less than full enthusiasm and joy. A trusty companion and an inspiration to always go with the flow. She'll be missed.

So sorry for your loss corbes, like others I always dread seeing this thread bumped knowing that someone is suffering the loss of a trusted companion.

Cassidy indeed is inspiration RIP

[Sweed]

Cassidy, 1998 - Dec. 22, 2011. A yellow lab who went blind at the age of two and deaf at the age of eleven and never once did anything with less than full enthusiasm and joy. A trusty companion and an inspiration to always go with the flow. She'll be missed.

Sorry to hear of your loss.

[Castlerock]

so sorry

[JonInMiddleGA]

Very sorry to hear of the recent losses. May your families find peace during such a difficult time.

[molson]

It's kind of cool that these dogs have earned sympathizers all over the world on this message board. Just from being good dogs. I (like probably a bunch of people) get sad and think about every dog posted on here, and I think Cassidy and Dozier and all the others would be amused by that if they knew.

[rowech]

Looking for advice. My wife is a huge dog lover, I'm not so that's making our decision somewhat difficult. Our dog was diagnosed as diabetic and she's losing her eyesight. She's just a wee Sheltie so the cost of insulin/syringes isn't too bad so that's not a factor.

The blindness is what I'm worried about. She's 10 + 2 months and I'm thinking she's still seeing some but she's not seeing all. She's run into things the last couple of weeks. Things that have always been in the same spots.

So, my question is, when her sight goes completely, is it right to keep a dog going who can't see at all? Is it possible they can adjust?

[molson]

Tough one. I've definitely heard of happy blind dogs who've adjusted - if they know the layout of the house and yard and nothing changes, they can get by. That's a burden though to the people, other pets, and really, who knows if the dog is having a great time either. I'd say give it a little time and try to see how she's doing, but you're not a horrible person if you decide it's not working out.

[corbes]

Rowech,
Our dog (Cassidy--and thanks for the many condolences above) went blind at the age of two and spent eleven happy years as a blind dog. The advice our vet gave when she was going blind is that each dog handles it slightly differently. I would focus less on bumping into things (she will learn to navigate by other senses soon) than on anxiety. If she becomes anxious, pay attention to whether anxiety is interfering with her quality of life. If she doesn't become anxious, then, she will probably be okay. Dogs do not rely nearly as much on sight as people do (smell is their primary sense).

[Peregrine]

I was on vacation in Istanbul last month and saw a really neat Greco-Roman grave marker that an owner had put up for his dog - really shows you that the way we feel for our pets is not a modern thing at all.

The text of the marker - "His owner has buried the dog Parthenope, that he played with, in gratitude for this mutual happiness. Love is rewarding, like the one for this dog: having been a friend to my owner, I have deserved this grave.

Looking at this, find yourself a worthy friend who is both ready to love you while you are still alive and also will care for your body after you die."

[DaddyTorgo]

Honestly I'm somewhat relieved to see this thread bumped without a sad story. I always like...dread opening it when it pops up a little, because I know it'll get me crying.

[rowech]

Rowech,
Our dog (Cassidy--and thanks for the many condolences above) went blind at the age of two and spent eleven happy years as a blind dog. The advice our vet gave when she was going blind is that each dog handles it slightly differently. I would focus less on bumping into things (she will learn to navigate by other senses soon) than on anxiety. If she becomes anxious, pay attention to whether anxiety is interfering with her quality of life. If she doesn't become anxious, then, she will probably be okay. Dogs do not rely nearly as much on sight as people do (smell is their primary sense).

Thanks very much for this.

I'm just not an animal person so I want to make the best decision because ultimately, I know it will be up to me. My wife said tonight, as she was breaking down, "the dog's our baby". Now I know part of this is her inability to have children but I also worry the attachment just isn't right in that sense. The line still has to be drawn that she's a pet. Member of our family -- absolutely but we can't keep her going just for us.

I know my wife would keep her going at all costs and I know at some point, I'll have to step in and say when it's time but I don't want to make a horrible mistake of doing that way too early and regretting it.

[Dreghorn2]

Honestly I'm somewhat relieved to see this thread bumped without a sad story. I always like...dread opening it when it pops up a little, because I know it'll get me crying.


Yes me too, but i always have to come in and give condolences despite how sad it makes me feel.

[TroyF]

Thanks very much for this.

I'm just not an animal person so I want to make the best decision because ultimately, I know it will be up to me. My wife said tonight, as she was breaking down, "the dog's our baby". Now I know part of this is her inability to have children but I also worry the attachment just isn't right in that sense. The line still has to be drawn that she's a pet. Member of our family -- absolutely but we can't keep her going just for us.

I know my wife would keep her going at all costs and I know at some point, I'll have to step in and say when it's time but I don't want to make a horrible mistake of doing that way too early and regretting it.


This is the difficult thing about pet ownership. You get a dog or cat and know that unless something horrible happens to you, you will outlive the animal. Yet you get attached and it becomes so hard to make the decision when the time comes.

You are right in thinking that she is a pet. If she's not doing well, then you have to make the call. You have to do what is right for the animal. If you can't make that decision, you shouldn't become a pet owner.

That said, I think most dogs handle blindness ok. They start to figure out where things are. As was said above, monitor the anxiety and her mood. If she's still a happy dog, there is no need to make a rash decision.

There are two types of dog owners. . . one type wants to get a replacement the second their dog dies.(I'm this type, I want a new puppy, I like having dogs in my life) Other people want to wait 6 mo., a year or sometimes never to get another.

Which is your wife? If she's the first type, you may want to look at getting the next dog while the first is still around. At the very least, you'll want to talk about what type of dog she wants. It can smooth the transition.

[claphamsa]

Looking for advice. My wife is a huge dog lover, I'm not so that's making our decision somewhat difficult. Our dog was diagnosed as diabetic and she's losing her eyesight. She's just a wee Sheltie so the cost of insulin/syringes isn't too bad so that's not a factor.

The blindness is what I'm worried about. She's 10 + 2 months and I'm thinking she's still seeing some but she's not seeing all. She's run into things the last couple of weeks. Things that have always been in the same spots.

So, my question is, when her sight goes completely, is it right to keep a dog going who can't see at all? Is it possible they can adjust?

+1 that is was bumped on not a super depressing story...

I grew up with a cat names Margot, she had cataracts from the time she was 6 to the time she was 17. could see very very limited light differences. Im sure it affected her quality of life, but she live and was a very happy cat. she just walked... slower and carefuller.

[claphamsa]

Thanks very much for this.

I'm just not an animal person so I want to make the best decision because ultimately, I know it will be up to me. My wife said tonight, as she was breaking down, "the dog's our baby". Now I know part of this is her inability to have children but I also worry the attachment just isn't right in that sense. The line still has to be drawn that she's a pet. Member of our family -- absolutely but we can't keep her going just for us.

I know my wife would keep her going at all costs and I know at some point, I'll have to step in and say when it's time but I don't want to make a horrible mistake of doing that way too early and regretting it.
you just need to focus on her quality of life. thats what really matters!

[Lathum]

We had an older dog that went blind when I was a kid and got along just fine. IIRC the key was not rearranging any furniture so she knew the layout of the house.

As for doing what is best for the dog, I would listen to your vet, she is the expert. I think maybe the best course of action with your wife is let her know you will do all you can that is reasonable, but if the vet tells you it may be time you need to listen to the expert.

There are few things more selfish IMO than keeping a suffering pet alive for your own reasons. In your heart of hearts, or your wifes as the case may be, you will know when the time is right.

[rowech]

This is the difficult thing about pet ownership. You get a dog or cat and know that unless something horrible happens to you, you will outlive the animal. Yet you get attached and it becomes so hard to make the decision when the time comes.

You are right in thinking that she is a pet. If she's not doing well, then you have to make the call. You have to do what is right for the animal. If you can't make that decision, you shouldn't become a pet owner.

That said, I think most dogs handle blindness ok. They start to figure out where things are. As was said above, monitor the anxiety and her mood. If she's still a happy dog, there is no need to make a rash decision.

There are two types of dog owners. . . one type wants to get a replacement the second their dog dies.(I'm this type, I want a new puppy, I like having dogs in my life) Other people want to wait 6 mo., a year or sometimes never to get another.

Which is your wife? If she's the first type, you may want to look at getting the next dog while the first is still around. At the very least, you'll want to talk about what type of dog she wants. It can smooth the transition.

I actually asked her yesterday if she wanted to get another dog and she said she would not want to do that.

[BYU 14]

Thanks very much for this.

I'm just not an animal person so I want to make the best decision because ultimately, I know it will be up to me. My wife said tonight, as she was breaking down, "the dog's our baby". Now I know part of this is her inability to have children but I also worry the attachment just isn't right in that sense. The line still has to be drawn that she's a pet. Member of our family -- absolutely but we can't keep her going just for us.

I know my wife would keep her going at all costs and I know at some point, I'll have to step in and say when it's time but I don't want to make a horrible mistake of doing that way too early and regretting it.

Agree with much of what has been said Rowech and would just like to add one story of a Dog that lost it's eye as a reult of abuse and is not only flourishing now, but has been the inspiration of a new law and done an incredible amount to raise awareness and help other Dogs in need.

Again, I know this is a way different scenario, but the end result is Dogs are amazingly resiliant and Andre is a great example. I met him at a fundraiser and he is very loving Dog that still adores people and makes do just fine without his eyesight.

Miniature dog's plight opens hearts (http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2012/02/19/20120219miniature-dog-opens-hearts.html)

Incompatible Browser | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000883536043#!/pages/Andre-the-rescue-dog/322558271120954)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/p480x480/542530_361072190602895_322558271120954_1007257_6457540_n.jpg

[Sweed]

Agree with much of what has been said Rowech and would just like to add one story of a Dog that lost it's eye as a reult of abuse and is not only flourishing now, but has been the inspiration of a new law and done an incredible amount to raise awareness and help other Dogs in need.

Again, I know this is a way different scenario, but the end result is Dogs are amazingly resiliant and Andre is a great example. I met him at a fundraiser and he is very loving Dog that still adores people and makes do just fine without his eyesight.

Miniature dog's plight opens hearts (http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/news/articles/2012/02/19/20120219miniature-dog-opens-hearts.html)



Incompatible Browser | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000883536043#!/pages/Andre-the-rescue-dog/322558271120954)

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/p480x480/542530_361072190602895_322558271120954_1007257_6457540_n.jpg

Good for Andre, I hope he is pampered every day. Seriously though what the fuck is wrong with people?

[rowech]

Took our dog to the vet today and sure enough, she's lost vision completely in one eye and is down to a minimal amount in the other eye. Very sad as she's running into things and just is having trouble realizing where she is. I'm hoping that after a couple of weeks she can adjust because this is rough. I won't be able to stand this watching her being so worried and trying to figure out where we are and where she is.

[HeavyReign]

Last fall we brought a cat into our house that we named Betty. One of my sister's friends had her and didn't really take care of her. They realized their daughter was allergic to her so they put her outside and left her to fend for herself. She just sort of hung out in their yard and they let her have some of their dogs food. They wouldn't buy her cat food. I met her and she was one of the friendliest cat's I've ever seen and just loved any attention she could get from people so I agreed to bring her home so she wouldn't have to live through another winter outside. The transition to being an indoor cat was mostly successful other than sometimes not using the litter box. The past week she seemed to not be feeling well but there was nothing too out of the ordinary. It was just a collection of small things that seemed off. She was still eating and drinking and moving around she just seemed to be a little more tired. Today when I went to check on her it was obvious something was really wrong. She had no energy and could barely stand on her own. Being a holiday the only option was the emergency vet but that wasn't something we could afford right now. We decided to try and let her rest and keep an eye on her. Soon after she developed difficulty breathing and then passed away. While I know we improved her life dramatically over the past 9 months, I wish I would've known that the small signs she was displaying actually meant there was something more going on. Her meow just seemed a little distressed in the last day or two. She was telling me something was wrong but I didn't understand. I'm fairly certain that by today whatever was wrong it was too late to stop it. I've been preparing myself for this to happen with my other cat who is 20 years old this month but can't believe how quickly Betty's condition deteriorated. She's the first pet I've actually watched pass away. I've just kind of been sitting here the rest of the day unsure what to do.

[MizzouRah]

So sorry HR.. :(

[claphamsa]

Thats unfortunate... but you did what you could, and improved her life, thats more than most people can say.

[Sweed]

Sorry to hear of your loss HR. We lost our cat about a month ago and it was hard. Keep in mind that you did bring Betty in and gave her those 9 great months.

[BYU 14]

So sorry for your loss HR :(

[molson]

Sorry to hear that HR. Without your intervention he would have died outside alone, probably over the winter. But he had the chance to know he was cared for at the end. It's all we can do really, try to make a difference where we can, and you did so here.

[HeavyReign]

Thanks for the condolences. I think the hardest thing was just not having any time mentally to prepare for it. Two days ago she was begging for milk and trying to jump up on my desk. I still expect to see her in one of her normal napping places. We buried her with her favorite sandals that she liked to sharpen her claws on and some catnip. For now I'm still pretty emotional but I know eventually I'll be able to accept that we were able to give her the gift of being wanted and loved.

[MrBug708]

My dog of 16 years was put down today. She probably lived 4 years too long, but had a huge yard to roam around in for 13 of those years.

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/428522_761662301167_114110736_n.jpg

RIP Tootsie Roll

[DaddyTorgo]

Damnit MrBug. Always hate seeing this thread bumped. Will pour one for Tootsie Roll tonight.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Very sorry to hear of your loss MrBug.

[Lathum]

sorry to hear Bug

[Grover]

:(

Sorry, Bug.

[CrimsonFox]

Very sorry to hear Bug. Such a sweet looking dog. CUUUTE puppy eyes!

[HeavyReign]

Sorry Bug. Try and think about the good times with Tootsie Roll. I know that has helped me.

[MizzouRah]

I don't like seeing this thread bumped.. sorry sorry Bug. :(

[Castlerock]

So sorry, Bug and HR.

[CleBrownsfan]

:( Sorry Bug

[Sweed]

Sorry to hear MrBug.

[Honolulu_Blue]

That sucks, Bug. Just try to remember the good times and what a great life you gave her.

[rowech]

My wife and I are torn on what to do for our dog after she went blind. She's been working at it for four months and she's just not getting better. Still runs into things, now sleeps all but a couple of hours, but still eats and goes to bathroom. Generally she looks very depressed and lethargic other than feeding time. The diabetes is only going to get worse over time and she's 10.5 now.

We're thinking of putting her down not because of the blindness but because her life just cant be good at this point. She runs into things constantly and shows a lack of confidence. Sometimes she just freezes because of fear.

It's tough because she still eats and even gets excited at that time but thats it. Vet says that is probably because of insulin telling her to eat.

We dont want to put her down too early but also not too late.

[Sweed]

My wife and I are torn on what to do for our dog after she went blind. She's been working at it for four months and she's just not getting better. Still runs into things, now sleeps all but a couple of hours, but still eats and goes to bathroom. Generally she looks very depressed and lethargic other than feeding time. The diabetes is only going to get worse over time and she's 10.5 now.

We're thinking of putting her down not because of the blindness but because her life just cant be good at this point. She runs into things constantly and shows a lack of confidence. Sometimes she just freezes because of fear.

It's tough because she still eats and even gets excited at that time but thats it. Vet says that is probably because of insulin telling her to eat.

We dont want to put her down too early but also not too late.

This comes from someone that is terrible at doing this. My wife actually took in our last dog. I simply couldn't do it.

Its always a tough call. If she has no quality of life than it might be time. You say she freezes because she is afraid. To me that is a sad state to be in and if it is something that happens a lot I would think hard about taking her in. If she's trembling and always nervous and afraid I would try to put myself in her head and see just how terrible a way that would be to live. Does she show any signs of happiness other than food time? Does cuddling\petting help her at all? If so are you guys around enough to give that to her? If not and she is spending large amounts of time alone, afraid, and blind I certainly wouldn't think you did anything too soon.

Its going to be hard but, at least from your description here, maybe for the best.

Sorry you are going through this but as many of have posted here it is part of the whole pet thing. And I think most of us here will say despite the pain it is all worth it.

[rowech]

This comes from someone that is terrible at doing this. My wife actually took in our last dog. I simply couldn't do it.

Its always a tough call. If she has no quality of life than it might be time. You say she freezes because she is afraid. To me that is a sad state to be in and if it is something that happens a lot I would think hard about taking her in. If she's trembling and always nervous and afraid I would try to put myself in her head and see just how terrible a way that would be to live. Does she show any signs of happiness other than food time? Does cuddling\petting help her at all? If so are you guys around enough to give that to her? If not and she is spending large amounts of time alone, afraid, and blind I certainly wouldn't think you did anything too soon.

Its going to be hard but, at least from your description here, maybe for the best.

Sorry you are going through this but as many of have posted here it is part of the whole pet thing. And I think most of us here will say despite the pain it is all worth it.

She's not so afraid that she trembles all the time. More when she just can't find her way. Often coming inside she will get to onto the deck off of the ramp I built she will try to find the door in and no matter the clicking, the calling of her name, etc she can't find her way in. She will try and try and then there reaches a point where she just stops and won't budge. Same thing happens at bedtime when she goes into her cage sometimes. It's tough. She will be in front of a wall and thinking she's standing right next to you.

If we pick er up she will sit patiently for a while as we pet her and then she wants to get down. Lot of times she paces, lies down for a couple minutes, then up again to pace and then lies down, etc. I wonder sometimes if it's because she's in pain and can't get comfortable.

I wish dogs could talk.

[CleBrownsfan]

I got a call from my wife while I was driving home from work yesterday that our dog Dante was ran over by a car in our driveway (to make this an even worse tragedy - it happened in front of my wife and kids). Dante was a 10 year old Jack Russell with more energy than life itself. My arm would tire before he would while I threw a ball, stick, or any thing that may or may not fit in his mouth. On the opposite end, he loved to snuggle as close as he could to you under the blankets. He will be missed but never forgotten - RIP buddy :(

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/62087918@N07/8012165963/" title="018 by Broth32, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8178/8012165963_875477c8b5.jpg" width="500" height="331" alt="018"></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/62087918@N07/8012165049/" title="070 by Broth32, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8322/8012165049_64ffe3d660.jpg" width="500" height="331" alt="070"></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/62087918@N07/6652482779/" title="031 by Broth32, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6652482779_135410d9d3.jpg" width="500" height="331" alt="031"></a>

[Lathum]

oh man, that is terrible, so sorry to hear that.

[saldana]

sorry man...my heart goes out to your kids especially

[MizzouRah]

Oh no way.. :( so sorry for your loss.

[Sweed]

CleBrownsfan so sorry to hear of your loss.

[DaddyTorgo]

Not this thread :(

Sorry for your loss man.

[BYU 14]

So sorry for your families loss. Feel so bad for you, especially your kids.

RIP Dante :(

[M GO BLUE!!!]

It's rough enough when we have to put them out of their misery, but when it's unexpected such as being hit by a car it's even rougher... sorry.

[Karlifornia]

Wow. So sorry. RIP Dante

[SackAttack]

Bad thread. Bad. No cookie.

Sorry for your loss, CleBrownsFan

[CraigSca]

Oh gosh, this is terrible. Prayers are with you and your family tonight.

[CleBrownsfan]

Thank you everyone for your well wishes. It was definitely an odd day without our Dante hanging around us today.

[molson]

Brutal. I'm glad you were able to give him so many great years though. It makes me think of Skydog's thread about not being promised tomorrow, it applies to our dogs too.

[General Mike]

So sorry CleBrownsFan. Terrible loss for your family.

[Castlerock]

So sorry. Just terrible news.

[Edward64]

Condolences. I know its tough losing a dog.

[BYU 14]

Though he was not our Dog, little Andre made national news, raised awareness for animal abuse worldwide and inspired so many with his courage and all he fought through over the last 10 months.

Sadly he has passed away over night and world is a little less bright for me right now. I met him at a fundraiser with his newly adopted human back in the spring and have followed his story on facebook and through the news from day 1, to the point where I almost felt like he was our surrogate Dog. His adopted human was amazing and gave him a great life over the last 7 months or so and I know she is devastated right now....Hell I can't stop crying either.

If you have Facebook stop by his page and read his story and leave some love for him. He was truly a remarkable Dog.

RIP Andre, you will be missed by all whose lives you touched!!! :(

Update Your Browser | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/leeanthony.crooks#!/pages/Andre-the-rescue-dog/322558271120954)

[MizzouRah]

Sorry for your loss. :(

[Sweed]

Though he was not our Dog, little Andre made national news, raised awareness for animal abuse worldwide and inspired so many with his courage and all he fought through over the last 10 months.

Sadly he has passed away over night and world is a little less bright for me right now. I met him at a fundraiser with his newly adopted human back in the spring and have followed his story on facebook and through the news from day 1, to the point where I almost felt like he was our surrogate Dog. His adopted human was amazing and gave him a great life over the last 7 months or so and I know she is devastated right now....Hell I can't stop crying either.

If you have Facebook stop by his page and read his story and leave some love for him. He was truly a remarkable Dog.

RIP Andre, you will be missed by all whose lives you touched!!! :(

Update Your Browser | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/leeanthony.crooks#!/pages/Andre-the-rescue-dog/322558271120954)

This one is really sad and I am tearing up as I type. In your original post I found the picture of Andre both inspirational, that a dog so mistreated would have the ability to still have love for a human owner, and sickening that someone of my species could do such a thing.

Knowing he lived a loving life after being rescued is comforting. I would like to think he's in a better place chasing a ball in a bright sunshine filled field.

Please express to Andres' adoptive owner and facebook followers that there are many of us that don't do the social media things but are still thinking of Andre today.

[BYU 14]

This one is really sad and I am tearing up as I type. In your original post I found the picture of Andre both inspirational, that a dog so mistreated would have the ability to still have love for a human owner, and sickening that someone of my species could do such a thing.

Knowing he lived a loving life after being rescued is comforting. I would like to think he's in a better place chasing a ball in a bright sunshine filled field.

Please express to Andres' adoptive owner and facebook followers that there are many of us that don't do the social media things but are still thinking of Andre today.

Thank you Sweed, I will pass your thoughts along. I am still jacked up over this. I will always remember how trusting and loving to all that went to meet him at his fundraiser. It is like he had forgiven whoever had abused him and was just happy to be petted, held and showered with attention. After all the surgeries and everything else, I was really sure he was going to make it and live for many years.

It is just heartbreaking reading the update from his owner today. Talking about his things still scattered around their place and she just keeps waiting for him to bump into her leg. I feel so bad for her, see loved him so much. I know because of Andre I have gotten a lot more involved in helping Animal abuse organizations and will continue to do so in his memory.

The amazing Andre

[BYU 14]

Wanted to share one last thing on Andre. His seeing Eye human, Sandy, put this awesome video together detailing his life from rescue to his way too early passing from complications of Diabetes. It is very touching.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/_CBC2-eV-Hc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Sweed]

Thanks for sharing that BYU 14. It was great to see what a great home he ended up in and how good\happy he looked in some of those pictures. God bless Sandy. I am off now to give my dog a huge hug.

[Wolfpack]

For those seeing this thread bumped, I apologize in advance for bringing and sharing my sadness.

Having said that, being the reserved type that I am, I've always preferred cats to dogs. I never had one growing up (dad was always afraid they'd ruin the furniture or the carpet--he's right, they do), but when I graduated from college, my then-girlfriend (now wife) and I decided we'd get two cats together. We opted for pure-bred cats over strays and wound up with a Maine Coon and a Bengal. The Maine Coon, Josh, has always been a somewhat reserved, but very lovable ball of fluff, sort of like myself, while the Bengal, Max, was more high-strung, emotional, and loud, sort of like my wife (not that my wife is loud as such, but she is much more talkative than me). They've been our children before we had children, but they're now grandparents in cat parlance at 14 years old. As our children have grown up, they also have come to love those two cats.

Sadly, however, it looks very much like we are going to lose Max in the very near future. He'd always been a high-energy cat, but he definitely had begun to slow down in recent months. In the past couple of months, he actually started to get a bit thin. We thought maybe he wasn't eating his food as well as he used to, so we tried switching to smaller, easier-to-eat kibble and he seemed to come back a bit, but in the past two weeks, he has drastically worsened. We were away all Thanksgiving week and on Friday, we got a call from my wife's friend, who was caretaking for the cats while we were away. She said that Max looked really skinny, wasn't really eating his food at all and she hadn't found more than a cat's worth of waste in the litter boxes. We were concerned, but I said it was likely because Max, being the picky eater that he is, was probably not interested in what probably was stale food. Nonetheless, we came home as planned on Saturday with my wife and I both hoping that nothing bad really did happen. We actually couldn't find him for a few minutes after getting home, but he did turn up eventually. Unfortunately, the caretaker was right. He wasn't doing very well. He seemed to be walking more stiffly in his hind legs and he had a lot of trouble eating the fresh kibble I gave him, usually dropping it out of his mouth after trying to crunch on it. He was even skinnier than he was when we left for the trip.

Thinking (and perhaps wishfully at that) that his old teeth were making it difficult to eat hard food, we tried to switch him over to moist food this past week and while he did eat some, he wasn't close to eating a full amount for a normal cat. Though his eating gave some hope that he'd perhaps recover some, I started thinking it was unlikely Max was going to survive to see his 15th birthday next summer.

As the week went on, however, those hopes faded as he continued to lose interest in the soft food as well, until today when he pretty much didn't eat anything at all. He's been drinking water, but that's pretty much all he's ingested. His hind legs really seem to have seized up on him as he has basically (when he's moved at all) been hobbling around from place to place.

At this point, we probably will take him to a vet tomorrow. Given his age and what seems to be the advanced state of his decline in health, unless there is a simple solution, we will be facing the difficult choice of putting him to sleep. We've already begun grieving over it. This is going to be hard.

[MizzouRah]

So sorry Wolfpack. :(

[BYU 14]

Man, I hate seeing this thread bumped. so sorry Wolfpack. You have given Max a wonderful life and I hope that provides some solace through this difficult time.

I feel for you and your family.

[Sweed]

Sorry to hear this wolfpack.

[claphamsa]

that sucks, the senior feline around here is pushing 15... and i woe the day he stops eatting :(

[Wolfpack]

The vet visit went about as expected. There was some initial hope that perhaps it was just a UTI, but further testing confirmed that he's in advanced kidney failure, which has been ongoing for some time and the UTI merely has accelerated the decline in the last couple of weeks. He's been given a dose of fluids and we've been given treatment for the UTI in the hopes that it will at least improve his quality of life, but it's a terminal issue overall at this point. We'll know by mid-week whether the treatment will be able to do anything for him. If not, we'll have to put him to sleep to spare him further pain and discomfort. Unfortunately initial signs aren't promising as he's still refusing to eat anything.

He's in my lap now as I type, not a place I normally let him be, but we've all been very tolerant and kind towards him as we see the handwriting on the wall and want to do what we can to help him be comfortable in what time he has left.

:(

[Castlerock]

So sorry, Wolfpack.

[HeavyReign]

I'm surprised the vet didn't send you home with fluids to give the cat subcutaneously. Three years ago I took my older cat to the vet with similar issues at age 17. She wasn't eating much, was thin, and pretty much spent all her time laying next to the plug in heater we had. They gave her IV fluids at the vet and did blood work. They had me use the fluid set twice a day and when she was rechecked a week later her numbers were much better. She's still alive today. She goes through spells where she doesn't feel well but overall she's a very happy cat. Someone else I know had a cat with this issue as well and their vet told them that it wasn't treatable. Here is a website I found when doing research about this if you want more information:

http://www.felinecrf.org

[BYU 14]

So sorry Wolfpack, was hoping for better news from the vet :(

[Wolfpack]

I'm surprised the vet didn't send you home with fluids to give the cat subcutaneously. Three years ago I took my older cat to the vet with similar issues at age 17. She wasn't eating much, was thin, and pretty much spent all her time laying next to the plug in heater we had. They gave her IV fluids at the vet and did blood work. They had me use the fluid set twice a day and when she was rechecked a week later her numbers were much better. She's still alive today. She goes through spells where she doesn't feel well but overall she's a very happy cat. Someone else I know had a cat with this issue as well and their vet told them that it wasn't treatable. Here is a website I found when doing research about this if you want more information:

http://www.felinecrf.org

We've seen that site. Thanks for suggesting it, though.

Unfortunately, Max is too far gone at this point. He's not really responded to the attempts at feeding or treating him. He's almost unable to walk now, and the times he's awake, he seems to be in a lot of discomfort. The inability to walk has led to a couple of accidents today because he couldn't get to a litter box. As hard as it is to do, we've finally decided to take him in to be put to sleep tomorrow. I'm facing a long night ahead in trying to help him be as comfortable as possible until then.

Thank you all for your kind words. I knew it'd be a hard day when one of our cats died, but it's still a bit surprising to find out just how hard it's been to say good-bye. (Dammit, I can't even finish this pot without tearing up. :( :))

[CleBrownsfan]

:(

So sorry Wolfpack... I lost my pet companion a few months ago and there has not a day I have not thought of him. Time does heal and now we reminisce almost daily of something Dante use to do to make us smile.

[McLovin]

Sorry to hear Wolfpack. It's so hard. Read "The Last Battle" poem that Castlerock posted on page 2 of this thread. I read it often.

[Sun Tzu]

These stories just rip my heart out. I'm sorry for your loss, Wolfpack. I'm sure kitty appreciates your love over the years. Thank you for sharing.

[HeavyReign]

Sorry Wolfpack, I was really hoping that there was still something you could do. One thing I've read is that cats have a way of letting you know when it is time. Unfortunately it does sound like Max has reached that point. One of my biggest fears is how I'll handle the day when my cat reaches that stage. It was rough last summer when my younger cat passed on. For me the biggest relief was in knowing that I gave my cat a great life in the time that we shared.

[Wolfpack]

July 31, 1998-December 4, 2012

Rest in peace, Max.

Thanks again, everyone for listening in and offering your thoughts, prayers, and best wishes. We know things are better now for him.

[BYU 14]

Just heartwrenching, I just know you are torn up, hang in there buddy.

RIP Max :(

[Honolulu_Blue]

Sorry to hear that. It sucks.

[claphamsa]

RIP

[DaddyTorgo]

RIP

[MizzouRah]

My dad and mom's shih-tzu was put to sleep this morning at 5 AM. They have a veterinarian that lives just a couple of houses down and they took her yesterday because she had blood in her stool.

The vet finally got her to eat and her stool looked normal, so after some tests he said they could pick her up last night.

This morning she was having a seizure, so after the seizure ran its course and they had her calm, they called the vet and got in the car. On the way to the vet she had a really bad seizure and my dad (as he was crying) told me she was in great pain.

The vet gave her 3 doses of volume, but she wouldn't come out of it. From there, they decided to put her down.

Very sad how something goes bad so quickly... :(

Kiss your animals today and tell them you love them!

[CleBrownsfan]

:( Sorry Mizzou

[MizzouRah]

Thanks :(

[CrimsonFox]

Very sorry Wolfpack and Mizzou! Hugs to Max and the shizou.

[BYU 14]

So sorry Mizzou :(

[Sweed]

Sorry to hear MR.

[MizzouRah]

Thanks again everyone, I hugged all my dogs and our two cats today.

[Lathum]

sorry to hear...

[samifan24]

My girlfriend's family had to put down their six year old Golden Retriever, Duke, today from inoperable stomach cancer. I am heartbroken. I loved that dog like it was my own. He was always happy to go for walks in the neighborhood or beg for scraps when his mom and dad weren't looking. He began throwing up his food about a week ago and the vet thought he had a problem with acid reflux so they gave him some medicine. He continued to throw up so my girlfriend's mom took him back to the vet yesterday and that's when they found the cancer, way far back in the back of his stomach in an advanced stage and very difficult to remove. We said our goodbyes last night but we'll all be reeling from this shock for a long time. RIP, Duke.

[BYU 14]

So sorry Samifan, so sad that it was so far advanced when the symptoms manifested.

Sending postive thoughts your way.

RIP Duke

[MizzouRah]

Sorry for your loss samifan :(

[Honolulu_Blue]

That really sucks, samifan. Far too young.