I think that dogs know when their time is coming to a close. They try to tell us but we don’t want to believe what we are hearing. We don’t speak the same language after all. But last night when Lucky barked repeatedly even though he didn’t seem to need anything in particular, while Ronin whined and paced the house, I knew that something was going to happen.
Somehow, even a rodent or poop on the carpet would have made me happy. This was because I knew that it was only a matter of time before I’d kissed my dear dog’s nose one last time. And if it was to happen, I wanted to wake up to find him peacefully and forever sleeping in his crate. But that wasn’t how things went.
Instead, I came home in a rush to leave town for the holiday. My friend have been given a key and instructions. I only wanted to check on the dogs before I went. Why? I don’t know exactly. Or at least not consciously.
At home, I grabbed a baggie, let the dog out of their run, and began “tidying up.” Lucky came in to see what was keeping me and I petted him but stayed on task. Then we all went into the house and that was when it started.
[Description to follow: Click with caution.]
Lucky began gagging, then foaming at the mouth, stumbling, and collapsing. In an instant, my plans had shifted. I called BoBo to fill him in on the details. Fortunately, YaYa had already described the scares that we’ve had all too often lately. Minutes later, I had Lucky in the car and we were en route to his vet.
They had a room ready for us with a blanket lining the lowered exam table. Lucky climbed right on. I signed the papers, and waited. Those few minutes seemed like forever…
I stayed with him during the procedure. I stroked his head and held him after the medicine was administered. And I slobbered tears all over him afterward. As many of you may already know, it was very difficult having to make the decision to “put my dog down.” I’ll tell you this, my husband would have given anything to have had the same luxury in the final days of his illness.
I have yet to leave on my trip. I’m taking my time I guess: being with my Ronin and processing it all. I really wanted Lucky to hold on until BoBo could see him again and say good-bye to his dog. But, I guess that wasn’t in the cards. Maybe that would have been harder. We’ll never know.
{{{hugs}}} to you and your family, Juls. We lost Howard over a year ago, and I’m still grieving his loss. Our friends, our pups, so special. LOVE that picture of you and Lucky at the top. xoxo
Hugs to you…losing pets is always hard especially when you have to make the decision…
So very sorry, Juls. :((
I wish I was there to give hugs to you all guys, Juls. So very, very sorry.
Many hugs to you, Juls. So sorry.
I had to put my first dog down. Dee Dee did hers a year or two later. It’s hard, but they deserve the same respect through to the end. They earned that. It doesn’t make it hurt any less, but their is comfort in knowing that we did the best for them all the way until the end.
Such a very hard thing to do, even when you know it’s the right thing. My condolences to all of you. As for BoBo I’ve been there — away from home, unable to say goodbye to MY dog. It was rough, but having been there for other more recent pet losses, I can also say it was something of a gift; my final memories of Asher are of his younger, more vibrant days. Hopefully, your son will find that too.
Juls, I’m so, so sorry. I am hearing little whispers around here too. Very small signs – ones that I hope are only signs of aging. When Web arrived on Sunday, we talked about him saying good-bye to her. My heart aches for your family, yet I am happy that something told you to come home for the last check. Your heart and your love led you.
I hope you have a wonderful trip and a Merry Christmas in many other ways.
Shedding a tear for you and your memories. His timing is eerie, isn’t it? You were able to be with him. I hope you have a wonderful Christmas. xo
I’m so sorry…I have to agree with Hilary. As hard as it is to say goodbye it’s just a wee bit easier with your finally thought of him as a healthy dog. My heart goes out to you.
I love you!
C
Tough loss. Thinking of you and family.
Thanks Everyone!
Nothing about losing a pet is easy. I’m sorry your Lucky Dog needed to leave at this time of year. Hugs to you and the boys.
Oh Juls, that is so sad. You are such a strong woman.
so very sorry juls. he was well loved.
oh, Julie – I am getting caught up on all I’ve missed. So sorry Lucky’s time came to and end right at the holiday. What a special dog. Love the picture!!