Senior dogs make for hard decisions.

[Red Chrome]

I unfortunately had to finally make the decision to end Hobie's suffering. He is 13 years old and he can barely get up and down. He has had more falls recently as well. He is a very proud dog and doesn't accept help easily. He hates it in fact. I talked to my vet Friday and took him in for his senior exam and to get an outsiders opinion. My vet advised me that the kindest thing I could do for Hobie would be to make that decision. He sent me home with some heavier pain meds for him and told me to take him home, think about it and make a list of good and bad days. I did that and an hour later called the office to make an appointment to do what is best for Hobie.

I don't want to do this. I hate doing it and my heart says to try alternative medicine. My head tells me it isn't fair to Hobie and that I know what I need to do for him. I hate this feeling and I hate having to make an appointment for it. It is set for Wednesday, it is the quiet day at the clinic and what his vet suggested for him. Hobie hates the vet so the quieter the better.

I wish there was a magic cure to make old dogs not be old anymore. I don't want to do this. I want him for more years. My family and close friends keep telling me, I am doing the right thing. I don't see it. This is the worst feeling ever.

[AdrianneIsabel]

:'( I'm so sorry

[Red Chrome]

This is why I am not going to Rose City to compete. I have known the time was coming, I just didn't want to believe it.

[PlottMom]

I'm so sorry, I hate watching them age ((big hugs))

[JessLough]

I'm so sorry. It never feels like it's the right time, and I know you've heard it before, but you are doing right by him. It's the kindest gift you could give him. (((((hugs)))))

[CharlieDog]

Originally Posted by JessLough

I'm so sorry. It never feels like it's the right time, and I know you've heard it before, but you are doing right by him. It's the kindest gift you could give him. (((((hugs)))))

This. I'm really sorry. He's had a great life with you. The best thing you can give him now is a good dignified passing. It never feels like the right time.

[HayleyMarie]

I am so sorry. It's never easy. You gave him a wonderful life. He will always be your boy.

[Sparrow]

I am so very sorry. :-( I know with my cat, once the decision was made (which was the hardest, most horrible thing I've ever done in my life,) I was at peace, and was then able to spend her last day on this earth with her and actually enjoy that time. I was able to see from her that it was the right time, but we still had quality time together. She even purred and stretched out for snuggles on that last day, and I was always sure something like would make me feel it wasn't time yet - make me question it. But it was right, and making the decision made it okay to relax and enjoy that time together. I was afraid it would feel morbid, but it wasn't. It was special.

You know when you know, even if it's harder than you thought it would be to decide. Everyone always says you'll know for sure when it's time. They will let you know. That isn't exactly true, and I was really pissed off over not knowing. But getting an outside opinion, talking to yourself, talking to a close friend, and talking to your pet... you get there. Once you are there, take that remaining time and give it all you've got. Make treasured memories. Make paw prints on a piece of paper. Cut a lock of fur. Take pictures of you together. Snuggle. Love. And have a frank discussion with him about the matter. Pour your heart out, and give lots of kisses and strokes.

Remember that many do not have it so good to be able to decide how and when to end suffering in a dignified and peaceful manner. Many do not get to truly say good-bye to their family members. At least you get that much, and he gets the passing he deserves. <3

Hang in there.

[Barb04]

I'm so sorry. You're doing the greatest act of love we can for our loved ones, to let them go & not suffer. Hugs

[Gypsydals]

Sorry ((HUGS)). That is one of the toughest decisions you will have to make. I had to make it with my 4 yr old Dalmatian.