
No matter how happy we are one day, there is always something around the corner waiting to cut us down a notch.
That’s life. I know. All the philosophy in the world doesn’t change the world of pain happening or about to happen.
My chocolate lab is almost 14 — a record in some ways. She had a fall a couple of years ago and her back legs don’t work quite right. The other day she slipped climbing out of her cage (she goes in all by herself… I leave the door open) , and pulled a muscle. She’s not eating a lot, and defecating around the house almost every day.
She is on her way out.
I know this has happened to very many of you — possibly over and over again. This isn’t the first dog for us that we will eventually have to put to sleep.
How do you make that decision?
Many say it’s only a dog. This part I get. But the dog is my friend, too. Listened to me crying in my beer and walking the paths exploring the woods or fetching till she almost falls over.
Like you, I will know when it’s time. I will hate it with every bone in my body, but I will know. I won’t let her suffer, I won’t force her into a life of pain and confusion just to hug her one more time.
I really didn’t mean to share this today, but it just goes to show you that you are not alone in your confusion and pain. It’s something pet owners agree to do the moment they take those puppy eyes home.
Give your cat and dog an extra hug today. Make new memories.
Oh no, I am so sorry, this is a tough time. My heart breaks for you, sending hugs ♥
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Thank you my friend. It’s funny — the last few days she’s been full of pixx and vinegar — almost like her old self. Maybe she read my blog….
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Please don’t be friends with anyone who ever says, it’s just a dog. Those people have no hearts. I’m so horribly sorry for what you’re going through. Just one more piece of your heart torn off. There are no words. I’m sorry and sending you love and hugs.
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One wonderful thing is that we have a 10 month old lab too and she has given life and love to our older dog. She doesn’t go far from her… it’s like she knows. Thank you my friend.
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A good dog can make an ordinary life. . . Extraordinary 💕. I’ve had to make that decision several times and it comes down to what’s best for them, not what you want. You describe classic hip dysplasia with labs, where they also lose bowel control. When it’s time, be there and hold her as she crosses the proverbial rainbow bridge. It sucks, but you’ll never regret it. Hugs from SC. 💕
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You have shared everything I’ve been thinking. Tonight she’s doing great .. great being relative. But tomorrow, who knows. I will know when she’s ready. Thank you so much.
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Sending cyber hugs. Our current standard poodle, Khloe, is turned 13 in September. Our previous poodle,Luca, was almost 13 when we had to make the agonizing decision to put him to sleep. What we thought was worsening arthritis turned out to be bone cancer. It was heartbreaking and we were also thankful for the time we had with him. Khloe has arthritis and is also going blind. My husband and I have daily conversations about her and so far, her quality of life is good. But one day it won’t be. Even knowing the pain we’re going to feel, the joy she’s given to us and others around us is worth it. Our pets may not be people, but place they hold in our lives and hearts in immense. I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
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Thank you so much, my friend. I didn’t know if I should blog something like this, but I knew there would be others who have been in this situation time and time again. When she stands and barks at our other wanting to play, it seems like she’s her old self. But not really eating or walking with a big hop with her back legs makes me think twice. She’ll always be with us with Kaluha stories, that’s for sure.
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((( ❤ )))
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Back to you tri-fold!
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This is always difficult, but as you said, you will know when the time is right. Hugs to you, my friend.
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Thank you, my friend. I know you understand.
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