Pet owners: deciding when to put a pet down

[RevJim 0]

Quote

Tell me the truth, it's the eyes that get you, right?

Yea. Those eyes..... All I can hear in my head is "You WILL do my master's bidding. You WILL be her pack biotch! You WILL NOT argue when she tells you to sit, or when to drink..."

I find myself losing willpower already.

It's your life, live it!
Karma
RB#684 "Corcho", ASK#60, Muff#3520, NCB#398, NHDZ#4, C-33989, DG#1

[skycat 0]

Awwww....rose is so cute, she just needs to get over her fear of my stairs so she can come up and play with Fox.

Fly it like you stole it!

[Kris 0]

Quote

Rose goes every where with me. Last year we hit SkyFest, SummerFest, and WFFC. Throw in a trip to Aggieland too. This year we'll be heading out to Perris Valley for May

Rose rocks! She's even cuter in person.

Sky, Muff Bro, Rodriguez Bro, and
Bastion of Purity and Innocence!™

[mnealtx 0]

Quote

What's that poem about the "rainbow bridge". It helped me...

This isn't the "Rainbow Bridge" poem...but seems appropriate..

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 blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly
teach me the things you would have me do.

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
fall upon my ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a
domesticated animal, no longer used to 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 though 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 worshipper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not
reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer from thirst,

Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your
bidding, to walk by your side, and to 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 you arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of
eternal rest --- and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I
drew, my fate was ever safest in your hand.

By Beth Norman Harris

Mike
I love you, Shannon and Jim.
POPS 9708 , SCR 14706

[Airman1270 0]

Hmmm... You could get the Florida courts involved, then just let the poor dear starve to death. I understand it's okay as long as you play some nice music and give her a stuffed animal to cuddle...

Seriously, I murdered my cat in 1996 after 18 wonderful years. We always had cats when I was growing up, but they were like Kennedys, always dying young. This was the first one to make it to old age. It was obvious she was shutting down, and if I'd waited another week or two I would have saved the $50. But we took her to a pet medical facility and gave her a shot of something nice. She went out purring and licking my nose.

It'll hurt (you) a little, but you'll forever be glad you took this step. The fact that you're asking about it indicates you already know the time is coming.

Cheers,
Jon S.

[chuckbrown 0]

It's time.

I've had to do this more times than I care and it's horrible every time. My problem is that I have to hold them in my arms while the vet does his thing. It's very hard to do, but it's the least I can do to be with them in their last moments on earth. The last time this happened, the dog was 15 (I found her as a 6 mos. old stray & was the best dog I ever had -- Lab/Doberman mix). She too lost control of her functions and had trouble just walking. She was in pain all the time. I miss her very much, but am glad I was with her at the end.

Now my 9 y/o Doberman was just diagnosed with lymphatic cancer this week. His chemotherapy started today. I'm really praying he responds to treatment, 'cause the end always sucks. Until my time when I get to run with the pack again forever.

Afterwards, remember to have a howl in his/her memory.

[Vallerina 2]

Quote

Afterwards, remember to have a howl in his/her memory.

He used to howl all the time! It was funny!

I know that it seems silly and all, but I miss how my dog was when he was healthy. It was funny to watch him play fetch with a frisbee for hours in the lake.

Sigh...I'm not sure if it's time right now, but probably in the next month or so.

There's a thin line between Saturday night and Sunday morning

[chuckbrown 0]

Quote

Sigh...I'm not sure if it's time right now, but probably in the next month or so.

The first time I went through this, I said that for a year. I was glad I had that final year. You'll know when it's time.

[tigra 0]

It may be time, but it may be that for now, the family has to make some sacrifices because it ISN'T time. It doesn't sound like its your decision to make in either case. Is he still getting enjoyment out of his life- the small things like when you sit next to him and pet him? Treats? Is there still a gleam in his eye? I've had to make the decision to put two of my cats down, and it was the hardest thing in the world but I let my heart be my guide both times.

If its your mom that's attached and not ready to let go for whatever reason, I think you have to respect it. Since this isn't the first time she's been though this, you already know she's capable of making that choice when the time is right. Don't pressure her, give her the benefit of the doubt that she'll do what's right when the time is right no matter how much it hurts.

Those are just my thoughts!