Why is it so hard to make that decision. My dear yellow lab Abby had to be put down today. She was 14. I found her as a stray almost 8 years ago. She came to me at a time when I needed her most. My marriage had just ended and my parents had been killed in a traffic accident. It really was a week form you know where! My son and I were shopping just after Christmas. We were both feeling down as it was our first christmas after all of our changes. Well here was this starving yet beautiful dog in the parking lot. 40 below zero and dark out! I was not a dog person but could not leave her there. Anyway she ended up being very well trained and full of life and love. She has never been sick and was always a joy. We needed her and she needed us. Fast forward...the past year her hearing has gone and her eye sight was starting to go. She would get confused and just stare at a wall or the food. she still liked to go for walks and followed me from room to room. This morning I walked by the window to see her out in the yard shaking and having exteme diareha. I ran to her just as she collapsed. She was breathing very heavy. Her shaking became more viloent. She is a big dog but I mustered all my strength and put her in the car. Raced to the vet. They said she was having mini strokes and seizures and there was nothing they could do. She wont make it through the day he said. The recepionist sat on the floor next to Abby and I and visited with me while I pet her and said goodbye. I know it had to be done but... My hubby is at work and my son is at school and it is suddnley way to quiet around here. I am not looking forward to telling either one of them. So PLEASE for me, everyone go and hug your dogs, cats and chickens!! And any other pets you might have. Thanks for "listening" Tanya
You did the right thing for your girl. Take some comfort in that. Yes, it's too quiet and will be for a while. But she has peace. Your family will understand. :aww I have lost pets before too, and hug everyone as if every day could be the last. Really, that's the best way to live.
Oh, I am so incredibly sorry. I know that nothing but the time to heal can make it better. You and your family are in my thoughts.
There's that saying,... This too shall pass. We've had two beloved dogs that had to be euthanized, for completely different reasons. It is never easy, and hard on children at first... but it will be ok eventually. She is in a better place now and no longer suffering. I truely feel for you and your family. http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
Tanya I am so sorry, I have been there. Abby was a very lucky dog up until the end of her life and you both got something out of finding her when you did. Some things are just meant to be and that was one of them. Just know she is now pain free and young again, running through those green fields with all the others.
I am so, so, so sorry. My mom had to do this a year ago and it was very hard. I was the one who had to make the decision for her and it really did hurt to say goodbye to such a faithful and loyal friend. These animals that we love so dearly, engrave a part of themselves onto our hearts and into our souls. They truly become a member of our family and in a way, one of our children. I truly am sorry for the pain that you are going through with this. It makes me cry to. Here's to Abby... 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...
:aww I know how you must feel, I had to take our old cat to be put to sleep a few years ago. I had no one to go with me. It was one of the blackest days of my life. But you did the right thing, and your dog lived a good, long, and well-loved life.
Gumpsgirl, that poem made me lose all control I had. It was truly beautiful. Now that I am about cried out, for now. I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and heartfelt words. Abby would be happy and wagging her tail too!
Prayers for you, and your family that your heart will be at peace. You made the right choice, and now Abby doesn't hurt anymore. God bless you, and heal you from your loss. Christine