Putting down my dog: The late great Little-Dog

[cali]

That was her name- Little-Dog. She wasn't really little. she was a medium sized mutt with a basset/retriever looking oversized head. She was 19 years old. My son was 8 when he got her.

She was a character. Really smart and the most manipulative, sly critter I've ever met. When you were mad at her or if she was jealous, she'd fake a limp. It took us a while to figure out that she was faking, but she'd forget which leg she was "favoring".

Little-Dog liked to lie in the middle of the road. It drove people in town nuts but it also amused the hell out of people. With a habit like that, it's amazing she made it to 2 let alone to 19.

I wanted her to have one last summer. She was deaf and blind, but she still enjoyed wandering down the road to visit here and there- and get treats from the suckers. And then, swiftly, things got bad for her.

The last 3 days were awful. My son was away and I wanted to wait until he was back. She was such a big part of his childhood. I set up with her nights- which were particularly bad and I gave her my pain killers to keep her comfortable. She lost the use of her hind legs on Thursday night. I roasted her a whole chicken on Wednesday with stuffing, which she had a particular affinity for. I fed her the last bits on Friday Afternoon, just before my son arrived to take us to the vet's.

She cried the entire drive. I just held her and sang her a song about how great she was. She fell asleep and died peacefully in my son's arms.

It was a beautiful late afternoon. We buried her on a slight rise at the edge of a field behind my son's girlfriend's house. They dug this perfectly rectangular deep grave and we buried her. I said a Dylan Thomas poem for her. We planted a lovely little apple tree in the grave, sat a few minutes remembering some of her more outrageous antics, went inside and toasted her with hard cider.

She had a great life and a peaceful death. I'll miss her dreadfully.

[bigtree]

1. sorry for your loss, cali

. . . that was a nice tribute.

[cali]

10. thank you bigtree.

Although I'm sad, I'm comforted by what a great life she had- almost to the last.

[trumad]

2. Sorry to hear that Cali...

Dog Heaven here she comes.

[cali]

14. thanks, trumad

if not dog heaven, lovely apple blossoms and later, apples.

[Are_grits_groceries]

3. Never know what to say...

Sorry you lost your pal.
Peace to you and your son.
Grits

[Bluenorthwest]

4. Oh cali, so sorry to hear this

Such a sad event the loss of a beloved animal family member. Take care of yourself.

[CTyankee]

5. I had a little dog that I had to put down, too...I cried for days and it still, these many years

later, I feel such twinges of sadness...I swore after that I would never have another dog. I couldn't bear the thought of doing it over again...even though I knew she was suffering and I had to do the right thing by her. I, too, carried her lifeless body in a blanket in the car going home. My husband dug her grave near the house and we buried her, wrapped in her blanket...

[monmouth3]

6. My heart breaks for you and yours Cali, but what a beautiful send off and tribute..n/t

[MrYikes]

7. Well done in her life and in her death. nt.

[a kennedy]

8. So sad.......

for all our pets who have gone before us.

[DUgosh]

9. Lovely tribute

I am so sorry for your loss

[xchrom]

11. may Peace be with you and son at this time. nt

[Wilms]

12. .

[etherealtruth]

13. I am so sorry for your pain ...

... and so happy that you were able to have her in your life.

Your post has me sobbing ... empathy, remembrance ....

[QC]

15. I feel for you, cali. Had to put down my little friend

three weeks ago. I had him for fourteen years.

It still hurts me every day to think about him.

[cali]

17. I'm sorry, QC

I hated washing out her dog bowl and washing the blankets that made up her bed.

It sucks to lose a friend you've had with you for such a long time.

[QC]

30. Thanks, cali. It does hurt.

One thing that has helped: about a week after I lost this one, I heard from a friend who knew of a puppy that had been dropped off in the country. He was headed for the pound, so I had to take him, even though I wasn't really ready.

So far, it's a mixed blessing--I had forgotten what it was like to deal with housebreaking and chewing--but he's a sweet little guy and I'm too busy to mope now.

Don't hesitate to get another puppy when you're ready. Nobody can replace the ones we lose, but the new ones find their own places in our lives.

[cali]

32. I absolutely will get another dog.

I've had dogs all of my life. Never been without one for more than a few months.

I'm so glad you have a new friend. I agree bringing a new dog into our lives after the loss of a beloved one, isn't about replacing the one we've lost.

[niyad]

141. so sorry for your loss, qc. just lost my old girl two months ago. still hurts so much. peace and

comfort to you.

[QC]

145. Thanks so much.

Peace and comfort to you as well. As much as it hurts to lose them, it's worth it to have had such a friend.

[BlancheSplanchnik]

16. ahh god... our furry babies. Such a deep love.

It truly shatters you when they go.

[Gore1FL]

18. They have a lost pet candle lighting ceremony at the included link.

http://www.petloss.com/

You can register your lost family member for free.

I don't know if it helps or not, honestly. I registered mine when I lost him. That was over 2 years ago and I still miss him.

[Scuba]

19. RIP Little-Dog.

Warm fuzzies to you cali!

[Douglas Carpenter]

20. I have 'Crazy little dog" - I have not formally adopted her - like I did with one other street dog

Where I live there is an abundance of stray dogs and very little services to deal with them and only one vet on the Island who price gouges everyone. I suspect crazy little dog is a barren women who cannot have puppies. At least people say she has never had any in spite of being at least five years old. I call her crazy little dog - because she does bizarre things like literally bark up a tree with no evidence that anything is there. I'll feed her and let her spend the night occasionally especially when it is raining outside.

I have not yet had to resort to euthanasia for any of the many stray animals in the area - I suppose realistically it is the right thing to do at times. "Bless the beasts and the children- for in this world they have no say."

[randome]

21. I am the Dog 'Un-whisperer' for my family.

I put down my own, my mother's and my aunt's. It's always for the best, cali, and you know it.
[hr][font color="blue"][center]I'm always right. When I'm wrong I admit it.
So then I'm right about being wrong.[/center][/font][hr]

[cali]

24. you are so right. It is for the best

Letting an animal suffer is selfish. It's hard to let go, to say goodbye, but when it's time, it's the only kind thing to do.

[stillwaiting]

22. I'm so sorry cali.

I just had to put down my 10 1/2 year old golden retriever, and I never for an instant realized how hard the past 2 weeks could possibly be.

I loved that dog so much, and I will forever miss her. Ridiculously smart, super loving, incredibly playful, and the most emotionally expressive dog I've ever known. More tears have been shed than I ever thought possible.

I've had several other dogs before her, but I've never had a dog that had such an amazing impact on my day to day happiness before, and I can truly say that I have been depressed over the past 2 weeks. She was put down a week ago.

I hope we both can successfully deal with the loss of our pups over the next few weeks and months.

You were so lucky to have Little-Dog for 19 years. So many great memories I'm sure!

[cali]

29. My condolences, stillwaiting.

I'm so sorry for your loss. It is hard. For me, the great comfort was the burial and little ceremony we had for little-dog. I hope that you had some way to mark your loss ceremonially- and if you haven't, consider doing so.

Your golden sounds like she was a wonderful friend. I know how much you'll miss that dog.

[baldguy]

23. .

[KurtNYC]

25. It was tough to read this because I have been there recently

My heart goes out to you at this difficult time.

Grief has a strong physical effect -- take care of yourself.

[alsame]

26. Hugs for you and your

son. It's never easy to say goodby to our furbabies.

You gave her a beautiful life and a peaceful death, she was lucky to be loved by you.

RIP Little-Dog

[mnhtnbb]

27. Oh, Cali, I am so sorry.

What a wonderful tribute you've written.

Last spring we had to put down our 17 year old kitty boy...third fur baby in 5 years.
It is so hard. Just so hard.

Hugs for you and your son.

[Harmony Blue]

28. Sorry for your loss!

Little-Dog meant a lot to you and your family.

[Honest_Abe]

31. You have my deepest sympathies.

I do know a little about how you feel, as I lost my own a couple of weeks ago. I take comfort in the fact that I tried to be as good a friend to her as she was to me. I'm not sure I succeeded, but I tried.
Thank you for posting this.

[cali]

33. I'm sorry, Abe.

I'm sure you were a good friend. and thanks for posting.

[vt_native]

34. Sorry for your loss, Cali

Best to you and your family.

[Richardo]

35. my condolences to you and your family, cali.

You were all extraordinarily fortunate to have had each other for such a long time. She was one great, funny dog.

[LiberalEsto]

36. You did very well by her.

It brought tears to my eyes.
I am so sorry for your loss.

[Fla Dem]

37. So sorry Cali, what a wonderful companion, friend, loved one for 19 years.

[kydo]

38. All Dogs Go To Heaven

I just went through the same thing in May. My best pal of 13 years died. Awesome dog, black lab mix named Mr. Black. He had tumors on his spleen and liver and they ruptured. It was sad time.

But my higher power works weird and shortly after Mr. Black passed a puppy landed in my lap. No really, things just happened that required no work on my part. The new guy is a Great Pyrenees. Today he is 5 months and we named him Corporal Hicks. Hicks is awesome, and we love him. Of course we still miss Mr. Black, but we entered this knowing fully how it will end. And it was worth every penny the first time around.

The point is dog spelled back wards is God. Cat spelled back wards is tac. Like I said all dogs go to heaven. No slight against cats I got three, love them all.

[Inspired]

39. I'm sorry for the loss of your Little Dog.

It sounds like she added a lot of joy to your life. It is so painful when a beloved furry family member passes away. I grieved more when my dog and cat passed away than I did when my father died. I'm not sure why that is but losing them caused such a profound sadness that has been hard to shake off. Take care.

[Frustratedlady]

40. So sorry for your loss.

I had to make the same decision, 2 years ago. My ever-faithful and loving Schnauzer's seizures were coming more and more frequently and I knew he was in pain from his illness.

He was the king of the house and my protector. I felt like I had betrayed him by ending it all...how dare I when he had never betrayed me. But, he gave me one last gift before he left. The vet had a room with a sofa for final goodbyes and, as we settled onto the couch, he snuggled his head onto my lap and let out a wonderful sigh as though he was finally ready to rest at the end of the day. He has been cremated and will ride with me on my final trip.

Lovely tribute. Enjoy her in sweet memories.

[bunnies]

41. Im so, so sorry to hear this, Cali.

Its a gut-wrenching, heart-breaking loss. I know. Its so hard to let go. Even when you know its time. Youre a great doggy-mom Cali. Ive no doubt she loved you very much. My sympathies to you and your son.

[Mnemosyne]

42. I'm so sorry for your loss, Cali. Little-Dog sounds like she was an awesome dog. Nt

[johnnyreb]

43. My thoughts are with you and your son, cali.

Our companions are amazing, and animal lovers are good people.

[66 dmhlt]

44. May all the fond memories you have of her be a balm in your sorrow ...

Lovely tribute

[bread_and_roses]

45. I am sorry - losing pets is so hard

It sounds as if you gave her a wonderful life - I hope that is a comfort.

[polly7]

46. I'm so sorry Cali.

Little-Dog sounds like she was much loved and loved in return. Condolences to you and your son.

[northoftheborder]

47. Sad, but sweet memories for your dear one................

[cordelia]

48. I'm so very sorry. Your tribute is lovely.

[Rowdyboy]

49. A full life and a gentle death surrounded by those we love...

is about all any of us can ask. May Little Dog rest peacefully.

[heaven05]

50. I'm glad you had 19 years

with this friend. May she RIP. Beautiful story. Not her suffering least someone jump on that, beautiful because of the love shared by you three.

[laundry_queen]

51. My condolences.

The missing is the hardest part of death. I'm sorry for your loss. Little-Dog sounds like such a character. Thanks for sharing her with us.

[Tikki]

52. So sorry for your family's loss.....

Hold on to the awesome memories you all shared. And be sure to know that sweet Little-Girl knew she
was loved.


Tikki

[1-Old-Man]

53. I feel so sorry for you, having had to do that.

I had to do it once, for an old boy who was about the age of your Little-Dog. As the Vet gave him the shots I gently rubbed his head and told his he was a Good Boy over and over. It was the most heartbreaking thing I've ever had to do. You have my deepest sympathy.

[kysrsoze]

54. So sorry to hear. It's tough to lose a close family member. Hang in there.

[SammyWinstonJack]

55. ...

[LWolf]

56. That's so hard,

that part we know will happen when we open our hearts to a 4-legged family member. I'm sorry.

My sons still talk about their childhood dog, proclaiming him the best dog EVER, and he's been gone for 15 years now. When his time came, too old to get food down, going blind, and finally unable to stand, I called the vet out for a "ranch call;" he went on his bed, his head in my lap, our hands stroking him until he was gone. Then I collapsed, and my sons did the rest.

Fifteen years on, and we love him as much as we did when he was with us, and we haven't forgotten a thing. We honor his memory by making room in our hearts for others, knowing that we will see them along that path, as well.

[sobenji]

57. What a beautiful tribute

What great caretakers you and your son were for this beautiful soul.
I have had and will continue to have the same decisions and heartbreak many times and so empathize with you both.
The price we pay for the unwavering love and devotion is we only get to have them for a relatively short period of time.
Thank you both for being little-dogs world.

I think I have some dust in my eyes now.

[adirondacker]

58. So Sorry for your loss Cali. nt

[cantbeserious]

59. A Touching Transition For A Beloved Companion

eom

[Granny M]

60. dear Cali,

My heart goes out to you. She sounds like such a wonderful character. You will miss her terribly, but I hope you are comforted by the wonderful long life she had with your family. You gave her a gentle passing, and a lovely burial ceremony. Blessings to all who loved Little-Dog.

[Greybnk48]

61. My condolences Cali

and well done! Little-Dog was one of the lucky ones thanks to you.

[cali]

62. I just want to thank each and every one of you for your kind

and supportive words.

It means a lot to me and it's a real help.

Thank you.

[totodeinhere]

63. What a beautiful tribute to your departed companion. n/t

[cal04]

64. I'm so sorry for your loss cali

that was a beautiful tribute to Little-Dog
s to you and your son

[gejohnston]

65. sorry for your loss

A Dog’s Last Will & Testament

Before humans die, they write their last will and testament, giving their home and all they have to those they leave behind. If, with my paws, I could do the same, this is what I’d ask…

To a poor and lonely stray I’d give my happy home; my bowl and cozy bed, soft pillow and all my toys; the lap, which I loved so much; the hand that stroked my fur; and the sweet voice that spoke my name.

I’d will to the sad, scared shelter dog the place I had in m human’s loving heart, of which there seemed no bounds.

So, when I die, please do not say, “I will never have a pet again, for the loss and the pain is more than I can stand.”

Instead, go find an unloved dog, one whose life has held no joy or hope, andgive my place to him.

This is the only thing I can give…

The love I left behind.

[cali]

66. that's great. thank you

Little was one of a litter that someone was giving away in front of the store.

I'm going to adopt a shelter dog.

[niyad]

142. tears in my eyes now--thank you.

[gejohnston]

144. you're welcome

[KittyWampus]

67. Glad she had such a good home and loving humans. Sorry for your loss

thanks for sharing the memories. It's very painful to say good bye.

[Puglover]

68. It is so hard to let them go.

I am sorry my friend.

[greatlaurel]

69. Please accept my condolences on your loss.

Our lives are enriched beyond description by our 4 legged companions, but it is so difficult when they pass. Take care.

[jsr]

70. Very sorry to hear.

[barbtries]

71. that was so moving.

i'm sorry for your loss.

[City Lights]

72. So sorry for your loss, cali.

Beautiful tribute. Cherish your memories and photographs. to you and your son.

[virgdem]

73. My deepest sympathy to you for your loss, Cali...

reading your post brought back memories of the recent loss of my cat, Abby. I had to put her down due to Cancer on July 28th and it was as hard as I ever remember putting down the last 6 cats over the past 10 years. I loved your beautiful and touching tribute to your dog-she was indeed a character. I wish you peace as you grieve in the coming days and weeks ahead.

RIP Little-Dog

[Avalux]

74. I am so sorry....

reading this has me teared up thinking of my Ellie who passed 3 1/2 years ago now in much the same way. I know how very hard it is to lose a beloved friend. When things were rough and I wasn't sure how I'd get through the day, she was there with her love and silly antics to make me laugh. She took care of all of us and held us together - me and my three girls. No matter how little you have, a dog makes you rich.

You and I have disagreed and sparred on occasion, but please know my heart goes out to you and your son during this difficult time.

I Loved You Best

So this is where we part, My Friend,
And you'll run on, around the bend.
Gone from sight, but not from mind,
new pleasures there you'll surely find.

I will go on; I'll find the strength,
Life measures quality, not its length.
One long embrace before you leave,
Share one last look, before I grieve.

There are others, that much is true,
But they be they, and they aren't you.
And I, fair, impartial, or so I thought,
Will remember well all you've taught.

Your place I'll hold, you will be missed,
The fur I stroked, the nose I kissed.
And as you journey to your final rest,
Take with you this...I loved you best.

-Jim Willis

[Diclotican]

75. cali

cali

Deeply sorry for you loss - it is always sad to loose a family member, that be a human - or a dog, who have loved and cared for you - as you have for it. She sounds like a great dog, who also was smart enough to make the best of the world around her.

But you will still remember her - her antics - her appetite for life - and that she enjoyed her life to the full - something I think we humans could learn something about doing from our friends in the animal kingdom..
She might be dead - but she will never be forgotten, by you and your family - and that is important in all of this - I know the sorrow about loosing a friend is great now - but over time the sadness will end - and you will remember all the good things with your friend.

Diclotican

[life long demo]

76. I am so sorry Cali and your son also.

Heartbreaking. She was blessed to have you and you where blessed to have her. That's the way it is, that's the way it should be. Let the tears flow. She will always be with you, in your heart.

I believe when we die, we are met first by all the pets that we have loved over the years (at the rainbow bridge) and our family members and friends are behind them. Makes sense because your dog (or cat) is always waiting at the door for your to come home. She's waiting for you.

[pnwmom]

77. A toast to Little-Dog.

What a great and long life she had.

[Cleita]

78. So sorry.

Losing a pet, especially one who was part of your life for so long, is so painful. May she rest in peace.

[Emit]

79. RIP, Little-Dog. I am so sorry for your and your son's loss, cali.

Little-Dog sounded like a very special character, and that was a wonderful tribute!

May peace be with you all.

[Enthusiast]

80. Little-Dog was an incredible dog.

We have similar dog story. The loss was much worse than we anticipated.

[cali]

85. I'm so sorry for your loss.

It is awfully hard to say goodbye.



(I have to confess, I was hoping that the oxycodone I was giving her in the last couple of days, would bring her an easy death and we we could avoid that last journey to the vet's. Her death was peaceful, but oh that half hour trip there was heart wrenching- and it seemed like it took forever)

[Enthusiast]

90. We also had that last half hour trip to the vet.

But she lived a very rewarding life. Only the one time when she impaled her mouth on a fishing lure's treble hook, that was a bad deal, lol. OMG!

[ljm2002]

81. Beautiful tribute, cali...

...she sounds like she was a real character!

I'm glad your son was able to make it home and say his final good-bye to his beloved pet.

[Squinch]

82. That made me cry. I am so happy you had such a good friend, and so sad you had to say goodbye.

[truebluegreen]

83. We lost our pack leader a few months ago and I still cry.

The only good thing was he chose his own time. It was so fast! One day he was still going for walks, still smiling, still laughing; the next day he was too weak to stand. We lose them all too soon.

So sorry for your loss, so glad you had so much time with her.

[msanthrope]

84. I am so sorry cali. I hope you will take comfort in the knowledge that you

gave her a great life.

[OnyxCollie]

86. I'm so sorry.

(sigh)

[cali]

162. Now that's a great doggy grin!

[toby jo]

87. Our little guys take pieces of our hearts with us to the other side, eh?

You did so well by her, such peace. Sorry for the loss, Cali.

[11 Bravo]

88. I'm so sorry, cali!

I've had to do it three times and it never gets any easier, so I know exactly what you're going through. I hope you can take solace in the fact that Little-Dog has found her peace.

[maced666]

89. Please consider another rescue dog.

As soon as you could possibly consider it.
The world of lost dog souls in shelters need owners exactly like you, as much as you need them.

My neighbor did so after losing her beloved Murphy last year, waited only three days. For some it takes longer but she is in a wonderful new relationship now with a beautiful mixed breed and her new dog has helped her -as much as it can -recover from the loss of Murphy.

Sorry for your loss, but its obvious you and Little-Dog shared a wonderful life and for that I'm happy for you both.

[cali]

91. yes. that is absolutely what I'll do

and I'll do it soon- before winter sets in here.

I just can't imagine life without a dog and I'm big on mutts and rescue dogs.

[Whisp]

92. Your Little-Dog and my boy Milo

are having a great time in doggie heaven together.

I am so very sorry for your loss. Just rips your heart apart to lose these beautiful souls.

[Stargazer09]

93. I'm sorry for your loss

[hunter]

94. Dogs are family.

I miss every dog who has ever been family, even the bad ones. Dog personalities are every bit as diverse as humans, but generally they are much more optimistic and willing to form close bonds, far more than humans are.

[malaise]

95. It's as hard as burying a family member

I cried for a month after putting down my beloved Roots years ago.

I know your pain.

[mountain grammy]

96. All dogs go to heaven. I think that's why there IS a heaven.

for our wonderful pets. So sorry for your loss.

It took me almost 4 years to replace my best friend for 14 years. My advice: don't wait that long.

[benld74]

98. We put our Tigger down in August, sorry to hear about your loss, please check out

rainbowbridge.com

A monetary tribute to you pal goes toward shelters nationwide, and allows other to see your Little Dog and what he was like.

[cali]

111. I'm so sorry for your loss of tigger and thank you so much for the link

[Lugnut]

99. I'm so sorry, cali. :(

It's never easy to lose a furry friend.

[MNBrewer]

100. Sorry to hear of your family's loss

Hug

[steve2470]

101. so sorry for your loss, I know this is a difficult time for you, take care nt

[SummerSnow]

102. what a beautiful tribute. Sorry for your loss...

May all your memories of her bring you comfort.

[Sissyk]

103. I'm so sorry, cali!

Sounds like she had a wonderful dog's life.

Hope you and your son cherish the fond memories.

[westerebus]

104. She was loved

and still is..

[PotatoChip]

105. I'm so sorry Cali.

It's amazing how much our furry friends come to mean to us. It's so hard to see them go, isn't it.

Sounds as if you gave Little-Dog a wonderful life, though.

Sincere condolences to you.

[WilliamPitt]

106. (((hug)))

[a la izquierda]

107. Oh Cali, I'm so sorry.

I know how hard this is and I'm sad for you and your son.

[fadedrose]

108. Am too old to get a dog

But I borrow and babysit my son's dog. I need a dog near me. I've been through what you're going through and it's something so heartbreaking that people who never had or wanted a a pet could understand

You will convince yourself that no matter what anyone says, you and Little-Dog will meet again in a better place. You will see her where she isn't. Whereever she laid most of the time is where she'll stay. The road where she liked to recline is where you'll see her.

And I don't mean for 2 weeks or 2 months - I mean for the rest of your life.

Dogs are such a gift even when they are a pain in the neck, because they somehow manage to love us when we are dirty, messed up, and even crabby and mean. I feel we are lucky to be loved and most important, that we were given the gift of being able to love an animal. One of the sweetest pleasures in life...

No comfort for you, cali, and that's the way it is.

Tears are forming in my eyes for you (and for me)....

[cali]

110. my dear faded rose, I'm so glad you have a pal in your son's dog.

I'm sure you're right, I'll see her everywhere. I do with Tuck, my other beloved dog who I lost 5 years ago.

but although I'm sad, I'm at peace about it. I loved that I could bury her with a bit of ceremony. And every year the apple tree will blossom in that incandescent way' shimmering white blossoms against the biting acid green of spring grass.

I'll see her in that too.

[magical thyme]

109. rip little dog

It sounds like you gave her a great life. I'm so sorry for the loss of your little dog.

[robbob]

112. Sorry for your loss

My sweet dog Daisy is losing the use of her back legs. It's been going on for months now, and it's killing me. They think it must be a degenerative nerve disease affecting her spinal column; she's in not pain and still loves to go for walks, but I don't let her do stairs and I lift her in and out of the car.

I'm taking her to a doggie chiropractor but she says if it was just a blocked or pinched nerve in her back we would have seen more improvement by now, which we haven't. I'm thinking of getting a dog wheel-chair to support her back end, but it feels like that would be the final stage. When she gets up her momentum she still trots along fairly well but of course, being a hound she has to go down into every ditch and puddle, following her nose, and on rough terrain she wobbles and falls down and has trouble getting up and going again.

She's only 9-10, my little hound dog, and she's the love of my life. I don't know how much longer she's got; every winter I wonder if it will be possible to get her through it. She's terrified of visits to the vet; luckily I have a vet friend; I will ask about the possibility of having her put down in a near by park, enjoying treats and lying in the sun on her favorite blanket.

It's hard because, aside from her legs, the rest of her is healthy. She's eating well, as I said she doesn't seem to be in any pain and she loves being held and petted and going for her car rides and walks. I've asked her to let me know when she's had enough. Sometimes I wish it was something final and clear, like cancer or a painful condition, because then the decision, still painful, would at least be obvious. I suppose in the meantime I'm just grateful she is still in my life, and still enjoying life as much as she can.

Again, my sympathies, Cali. I am not looking forward to the day Daisy leaves me.

[cali]

114. so sorry, rb.

I know I shouldn't give advice, but hey, if Daisy isn't in pain and is healthy and enjoying life, why not get her a supportive device?

Thank you for your kind thoughts. I wish Daisy the best.

[Loki]

113. Going through the loss of a beloved pet and friend

is such a hard thing to do, but we choose to have them in our lives because they give us such joy and companionship. A small price to pay for their unconditional love and loyalty. Here's to Little-Dog. She is now running free with all the four legged loves of my life.

[No Vested Interest]

115. You were so kind to Little-dog in her last days.

I'm sure you'll have tears as you read the words written here by DUers.

Her story struck a chord with me, for we had a Standard Dachshund, LAdy, who also liked to lie down in the road. I believe she like the warmth of the tarred area where the street was repaired.

Unfortunately, she died when hit by a car, not when she was lying down in the street, but when she was making her rounds of neighborhood garbage cans set out the evening before pick-up.

Lady was not too classy, but she was a part of our family and we were sad when she was gone.

Peace to you and yours.

[cali]

123. thanks. Lady sounds like a character

too. I love "unclassy" dogs.

[No Vested Interest]

166. That must have been 25-30 Yrs ago, when dogs most often had free rein

on their outdoor activity. It was not particularly frowned upon to let your dog run "loose" at that time.

With our next dog, Polly, who actually had a pedigree and papers, we were careful to walk her on a leash.
Now she was a true "lady" and oh so lovable.
That's the dog I hope is waiting for me i heaven.

I hope your grief at losing Little-Dog is easing; I'm sure you still miss her terribly.

[RebelOne]

116. So, so sorry. I feel your pain.

I have had to put two dogs down within the past 12 years, and another one died at home while I was at work. He is buried in my back yard. I had the other two cremated and have their ashes, but I still grieve for them.

[roody]

117. Something beautiful remains

[dballance]

118. I am weeping

I have a mutt who is a rat-terrier/jack russell mix. I've had him for the last 15 years or so. Since the neighbors brought him as a stray over to the bleeding heart house in the neighborhood.

For 17 he's amazingly active and wonderful. My best relationship EVER!

I'm glad you had a great family member like my Nikko for the time available. They are wonderful people!!!!!!

[cali]

124. oh db, I so hope you have some good time left with Nikko

wonderful people, indeed.

[Moostache]

119. So sorry for your loss...sounds like a great dog

We have a 16-year old cat and he went through a really bad illness this year. I thought we were days away from losing him before he bounced back. It may be his Indian Summer as well but I cherish the time we have left. Hopefully the days ahead will be slowly turned from loss to remembering the good time you shared. Best wishes...

[motocicleta2]

120. thanks for this

It's a really great remembrance of your pup. My old girl, a malamute/chesapeake bay mix, passed away December 29 of last year, as my friend and I carried her in her dog bed to the car to be taken to the vet's to be put down. I love dogs, and there's no way around this kind of pain. Hearing about Little-Dog is comforting to me somehow. We're lucky to share their lives as long as we get to.

My daughter badgered me for months to get another dog. I kept saying I already had my dog. Finally I gave in, just to go to the humane society to look at dogs. One day, one trip. The next day, June 4, we came back to pick up our new puppy, some kind of terrier/corgi maybe? I miss my old girl terribly, but this puppy has been so good for me.

Thank you again. Much love to you and your son.

[cali]

125. I'm so glad this was a comfort to you.

May you and your new pup have many joyous years together.

[motocicleta2]

167. sniff

You are so sweet for replying to all of these people. I love DU.

[LittleBlue]

121. Terrible to lose a friend like that, Cali

Little-Dog is at peace. My thoughts are with you.

[Faygo Kid]

122. Sasha went before 2, and I have never recovered

Sasha was a rescue; pit bull and lab. Sweetest, most loving dog ever. I took her to a park off her leash in 2001, she saw another dog across a busy road, and that was it.

I lost Tippy at 9 in 1964, Missy in 1978. All run over. Never again.

[Purveyor]

126. I'm so sorry to read this Cali. There are never the right words to say at a time like this except

sorry and take care.

For those of us that have gone through this know, time helps after a while but I still catch myself crying over one of the loved dog we've lost years ago.

[Peacetrain]

127. So sorry Cali.. I cried myself sick

when we had to put our 20 year old cat down.. I know how you feel.

[MissDeeds]

128. cali, I am so sorry

Losing a beloved pet is a heart wrenching experience. I'm sure Little-Dog was showered with love and care during her long life, and I hope you'll take comfort from that. I lost one of my bichons in December at twelve and a half and it still hurts like crazy. He was the sweetest little guy and showed me more love and affection than most of the people in my life. He was my special little dude and I loved him so very much. I'm sorry for all you're going through and will keep you and your son in my thoughts.

MissDeeds

[MFM008]

129. awww

bless little-dog.

[cui bono]

130. I'm so sorry for your loss. I know how hard it is.

I had to put my dog down 4 years ago and I still haven't gotten another. She and her brother were my babies. He had passed a couple years before her.

The good thing is that after the grief passed I now fill with joy whenever I think of them, feeling so lucky to have had such great dogs. I hope you get to that place soon.

[MannyGoldstein]

131. The best eulogy of a dog I've ever read

And I'm sure that Little-Dog deserved it.

Thanks, and peace to you and all who loved her.

[Oilwellian]

132. I'm very sorry, Cali

It's so hard losing our best friend.

[EV_Ares]

133. Cali, so sorry for your loss of a family member, brings tears to my eyes because I know what I felt

when I had to do that to my pal some time ago. I am glad he had you and your son for a family and had you both to the end.

Take Care, you will never forget Little Dog but you will laugh at some of the memories from time to time and remember the great friend you had.

[Liberal_in_LA]

134. rip lîttle doggie

[roguevalley]

135. I am so sorry, Cali. Your dog was ancient like mine. I had six

dachshunds, four I had to let go the past four years. 11-22 were their ages. It is a deep hole they leave. You gave them a beautiful send off. I know your baby is around you now. I still hear their nails clicking on the floor at night. I wish you peace. You and your son are in my thoughts. Take care. Time is your only friend now.

[rock]

136. I am extremely sorry

Please accept my condolences. Remember all the fun times you enjoyed together.

[lucca18]

137. So very sorry for the loss of your wonderful "Little -Dog".

What a smart dog.....what a character!
How lucky you all were to have her in your life; and how lucky Little-Dog was to have all of your love given to her......

[shenmue]

138. Rest in peace

Very sorry.

[grantcart]

139. I put Champion (golden retriever) after 11 beautiful years last year

I cried like a little girl and only when I saw the Vet become overcome with emotion and start to cry at my pathetic sobbing did I regain my composure.

When I would make my nightly call home when travelling on the road the kids eventually got bored with talking with Dad and it eventually would fall to Champ to talk with Dad. They would put the phone on the chair in my office and Champ would listen to me and then go "Aaaaarruuuurrrrraarrr" in his bizarre attempt to make human noises come out of his canine throat.

When I eventually got home he would lie down next to me and wouldn't leave my side for the next three days.

When he went out on walks he pretended he was one of the guys and would race ahead to push the crosswalk button at the corner to the amazement of the onlookers in traffic.

I join you in saluting Little-Dog.

[niyad]

140. may the Lady of the Beasts hold little dog close, and send you peace and healing. thank you

for sharing this little darling with us, she must have been adorable. having just lost my 18-year old cat two months ago, I understand all too well what you are experiencing. I still miss her dreadfully every single day (as I do the rest of her family, even though they are now together again.). I still look for her to be in the window when I come home.

((((((((((hugs)))))))))

[defacto7]

143. Sometimes I wish our pets could live almost as long as we do.

I've been there a few times.

Sorry for your loss.

[Samantha]

146. Beautiful tribute, Cali

So sorry to hear of your loss. Sounds like she was a wonderful, wonderful dog.

Sam

[chimpymustgo]

147. Little-Dog. Darling name, swell life, sweet send-off.

Peace be with you, Cali.

[KoKo]

148. Cali...So Sad...hard to read...

having recently been through something similar. Beautiful post..sharing your angst and personal memories.



We have buried our buddies...in graveside services in our yards... I wanted them close. We had to leave a few behind in moves...but, there's always an honor in a special stone/rock (when we lived in CT...and there's a special stone in NJ...and there's two here where I am now...with flowers planted every year.

Best Friends through Good and Bad Times...

It ain't easy.

[indepat]

149. Nineteen years is a very long life, but not nearly long enough for Little-Dog who gave so much love

and was so loved in return. Our heartfelt condolences.

[pacalo]

150. What a sweetheart.

She reminds me a little of the well-loved collie that lived across the street from me when I was a child. Every time the ice cream truck came down the street, Trixie would meet him at the roadside because she knew he would give her a popsicle.

I'm sorry for your loss, cali.

[IDemo]

151. We told ourselves last year after putting down our 4th in 20 years, no more dogs

The grief one feels upon saying goodbye to these creatures is profound. The companionship and love they provide has often made me wish humans were more dog-like.

And that lasted about two months. My two new furballs, both rescues, are at my feet as I type. We have been taking care of my sister's shepherd as well since June. Once a dog person, always a dog person.

[Skittles]

152. a lovely tribute

Grieve not,
nor speak of me with tears,
but laugh and talk of me
as if I were beside you...
I loved you so --
'twas Heaven here with you.

by Isla Paschal Richardson

[cry baby]

153. You made me cry with your beautiful tribute to LittleDog.

I know your sorrow and my thoughts are with you and your son.

(((((Hugs)))))

[NealK]

154. I'm so sorry.

[IrishAyes]

155. Please accept my condolences

All who've lost a beloved pet can sympathize. But I'm also grateful you shared such a beautiful memorial to your furkid. May I say she was as lucky to have you as you were to have her.

[MerryBlooms]

156. I'm so sorry for you and your family's loss. My condolences. ((hug)) n/t

[2theleft]

157. Little-Dog sounds like an amazing pup...

and what you wrote about her touched her my heart. I still think about my Scout (died 2 years ago) every day, even though I have my two other dogs by my side. They do touch your heart, don't they?

I call my boxer 'little dog"...she's not little, but is compared to her 100+ pound doberman/hound mix brother.

Hugs to you, Cali, and your son. I'm happy to hear you will be adopting another fur kid soon. It will help so much to ease the ache in your heart.

[Triana]

158. I'm so sorry for your loss.

They're such important family members. Seems she had a good, long, loved life though. And died with her people there so not alone. It'll eventually get easier to live with her gone - but you'll never ever stop missing her.

[busterbrown]

159. #159

Everyone of the posters knows exactly what you are going through...Rivers of tears for 3 days for me..

5 years ago we lost our dog Jebby. Since then we have not gotten another friend.. Too much pain to go through again. But then again, all the joy we received might necessitate another trip to the Shelter one day..

[inch4progress]

160. Sorry to hear you lost a member of the family

[Veracious]

161. Sorry for your loss Cali, Little-Dog had a wonderful life.

They are our greatest joy and friends, it is our solem duty to make sure they are never in pain, or cold or hungry or suffer in any way. You gave your Little-Dog a great life and she loved you all very much.

[vankuria]

163. I'm so sorry...

Know just how you feel. Sounds like your dog had a wonderful life and right to the end felt the love you so generously gave. When we put our dog down several years ago,we made a garden in his memory to honor him and so we could still take care and tend to him. It does get easier over time, but you never forget nor should you.

Sending hugs and positive thoughts your way...

[leftynyc]

164. So very sorry for your loss, Cali

I know how your heart is breaking - especially having a child that was so close to his dog. You will all be in my prayers.

[Solly Mack]

165. I'm so sorry!

(((cali)))