Oh wow. I'm sorry. I am with my first two dogs who are 6 so I haven't had to witness this or go through something like this. I do hate when my dogs are sick and one was in the ICU for weeks before and I just didn't think it was his time. My mom's dog had hip dysplasia and she put him down only after he was in obvious pain for days.
If she's eat/playing/ and little or no signs of distress i would keep on keeping on. When my dad was hospitalized I knew when it was time to remove life support due to physical signs and the doctors saying there wasn't much left they could do and if they did do surgery etc, his quality of life would not be much.
Your pup has had great years with you and is obviously loved fiercely. When the bad outweighs the good, it's time and you're doing the most kind and humane thing you could do for your baby. It takes a great amount of love to put your dog's needs before your needs to hold on to her. It's a selfless act.
I'm sorry. I know how you feel and it sucks. My dog has bone cancer right now (and he just turned 6 today) and is also in good spirits and energetic--so we're just watching and waiting for the time to come.
18 months ago, we had to put our cat to sleep. It was a really hard decision, but I really did know when it was time, and once I did it, I immediately knew I had done the right thing--which was a relief.
You have your dog's best interest at heart, and he trusts you to take care of him. Unfortunately part of taking care of him is knowing when to let him go. Trust your gut. You really will know when it's time.
I'm so sorry, sxia! In the end you DID know- and did the kindest thing for her. There are definitely dogs who will fight through all their own pain stoically until they think their people are ready to let go- they are amazing animals when it comes to understanding us. I'm glad she's at peace and happy that you were able to enjoy so many happy years with a special pup!
Post by more adventurous on Jun 14, 2016 14:21:34 GMT -5
I know this was a while ago, but I just came to this board to search for something and had to say that you have me in tears. Such a sad, but sweet goodbye. It's truly the hardest decision a pet owner will have to make, and you did well. It's obvious that you loved her deeply and only wanted the best for her. Thank you for sharing.