I put my dog of 15 1/2 years to sleep yesterday.
She got tests...a cbc, xrays, she aparantly had some disc problems and infection in her lower spine. She was not able to control her back legs well, could not use stairs or get up from sitting. It was very horrible for her. It was a good 2 weeks of her suffering in vein, hoping the meds would work.
After losing close to 1/2 her body weight, I said no more.
She died after her favorite 'going bye bye in the car car' on the lawn under a tree, in my arms from the vet who met me there. It was mercifully peaceful, I was surprised she did not struggle at all. She just went to sleep. We are all ok, the kids didn't even cry I talked so much about how great heaven is and Steve Irwin being there to love her up.
More than grief is my relief that she is no longer suffering. I ball up the blankets on her bed at my bedside, so it looks like her there.
So, that's about it. And you don't have to say anything about CoCo. I've posted, I know you all know, that's enough. I don't really like to talk about it, but I just miss her. She was a better dog than I ever deserved. But what dog isn't? Humans should be more doglike in so many qualities.
I liked this, hope you will to...dunno who wrote it. I want to have Carmen write it out, and frame it with pictures of our three dogs, now all deceased.
A Dog's Prayer
Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me. Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me know.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.
When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to the bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.
Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should your life be in danger.
And, beloved master, should the great master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you, rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands send me to the merciful boon of eternal rest. I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.