Preparing for the end

[WillParkinson]

My dog, Misty, can barely move. She seems in discomfort. She ate this morning and then laid down. She doesn't want to get up. I put her in the bed so she'd be comfortable, but I fear the end is near.

She's had a good life. She's 15 years old. The vet said that she's lived longer than most dogs her size.

I want what's best for her, of course. If she's suffering I don't want it to continue. But it's very hard for me say goodbye to 15 years of my life. I look in her eyes and still see the dog that followed me home one day. The one that could, in younger days, jump through the car window without touching the car. The one who, when she thought I was mad at her, would get on the bed and drive her head underneath my pillow and lay there till I put my arms around her.

Our youngest, Bailey, doesn't want to leave her side. I think he knows. And, sadly, I think I know, too.

Paul is on his way home to take her to the vet for their opinion. I fear what it's going to be and don't think I can ever be truly ready for it.

So just needed a moment to put it down before the tears fill my eyes and I'm not able to say it.

I love you so much Misty. I wish you peace.

[Hugin]

1. It's all you can do...

You have my sympathy.

[WillParkinson]

2. I know...

In all my life I've never had to put down a member of my extended family. It's sad, but I don't think I have the strength to do it.

[Hugin]

3. ...

:(

[Suich]

4. I'm so sorry, WillBowden.

:hug:

[YDogg]

5. Peace be with you, Misty.

[VLC]

6. The last time one of my animals died, my neighbor said the only thing that helped at all.

She said, "She was happy."

If you do lose Misty, I hope that thought brings you some comfort.

[Coyote_Bandit]

7. .

:hug:

[Critters2]

8. I'm so sorry.

I've been there. When my first dog died (mercifully, in her sleep--not euthanized), the vet said "This is the price we pay for 15 years of the joy and happiness of living with a dog. You don't think so now, but one day you'll be more grateful you had her than you are sad that you don't." It's true. They make our lives so much better, but the price to us is that they don't outlive us. You can be proud that you were loved by a wonderful animal. And one day, you'll remember her and smile...laugh even.

But until then, you'll need lots of these :hug:

And one for Misty :hug:

[WillParkinson]

9. Update

The vet said that Misty's blood cell count (both white and red) were very low. They're not sure what the cause is. They've put her on steroids to lower her immune system and antibiotics to fight the infection they believe she has. This morning she's not moving around but her eyes aren't glassy.

[ScreamingMeemie]

10. WillB, you and Misty will be in my thoughts today.

I remember, a long time ago, you posting pictures of her and she is beautiful.

~Laura

[stuntcat]

11. love to Misty

:hug: