Awful, I just went through this a few weeks ago, although it was a heart tumor rather than lung cancer. Nobody knew it was even there until it burst open and blood surrounded his heart, causing him to instantly lose strength and appetite, and then be put down......all within the weekend. I wish there could have been more time. Seeing the dog wag his tail when you come into his sight, while he's in tremendous pain collapsed on the floor and trying to take in oxygen from a machine....I don't even know what to say about how hard it is to let go. Enjoy what precious time you have left with him. Make it special.
Sorry to hear, Fez. I love and care for my dogs far more than I do but a select group of humans (and that's a tie). Dog is man's best friend for a reason. I'm sorry you're going through this, mate.
My lab died 22 months ago from a brain tumor. We have a new dog in the family I love and adore but it doesn't take away the sting of the lost family member. Honestly, makes me miss my lab more.
His name was Simon. I'm a fan of giving dogs human names. They're people too. I wanted a Boxer but since we lived in an apartment I had to adhere to a few criteria when we chose a dog. I was watching Eukanuba and Westminster dog shows and shit lol. I actually like to watch dog shows. Anyway, I see this little tough-looking mini brindle Boxerish looking dog scampering about with his little 1/3 of a tail wagging. I didn't even know what a Boston Terrier was. I had to have one. He was perfect. His lil eye had a mind of its own! He was smart. Obeyed my every command. I could walk him without a leash... Damn.... Fez... This has me gettin' emotional on the way to work...
The pee pads are for when we're gone for long hours. They're pretty good about it, the little one on the right is old. From left Sarge (buddy or buttface I call him) Sidney (beast) and Libby (grandma)
Thanks guys/gal. This was beyond rough. We had a scheduled euthanasia for Saturday but had to make an emergency call to the vet today - his decline was extremely quick. I left the room after the first shot - a sedative - came back in when the final shot was given. I went to hug him one last time and shut his eyes - he wasn't totally gone yet. As I reached to close his eyes he took one big last gasp inches from my face. Talk about salt in the wound. Waiting for the vet felt like an eternity. It was cloudy and at 3:15 the sun came out - literally the exact time he left us. Everyone in the room looked at each other when this happened.
Thanks, Sly. Reading personal stories and photos of other dog lovers on S2 helped. I don't feel so alone in this process. I do plan to rescue another pitty in the future, as a tribute to Snoopy. He was a rescue, too. But not right away. Those who ever have to make this tough decision I highly recommend a mobile vet service. Snoopy was on his bed in the living room surrounded by his fur bros and fur parents. He didn't show fear at all. IMO that was because he was at his home, his safe haven. He was nearly 15! I never saw my dad cry - until yesterday. We're all gutted. Hopefully this will pass soon.
It will get better. I'll never forget having to do it but the memory isn't as painful now. I remember it more that they didn't have to suffer anymore instead of just the loss of a part of the family. I almost adopted a big sweet dumb blue and grey pit mix a few years ago. He was such a sweet dog, I think his skull was as big as mine. We don't get big dogs here because we refuse to leave them outside in the heat. He was such a friendly dog, kinda sad I didn't break my own rules.
Really sorry to hear that Fez. Lost my dog a little over a year ago and still think about her everyday, even with a new dog I find I compare her to Sadey a little to much.
That's funny to hear. Buddy, the light brown boy is my favorite dog I've had since I was a kid. His sister the darker one was a nightmare for a year or so after we got her. I literally thought she was insane and should be put down. The vet pretty much told us he'd have her put down. A couple of years later and some training and she's almost as good as he is. It is a real tossup between this.... And this...
Sorry for your loss. I'm an animal lover and have two cats. Ive buried/put to sleep a few. Time heals.
Again, thanks everyone. This thread reminded me of how awesome S2 can be. It's been two weeks and I feel like I'm feeling like myself again. Easily one of the worst days of my life. I had him cremated with the intention to send them off to be made into a crystal memorial art piece.
I just adopted two dogs today - 7 month old golden lab siblings. I didn't want to split them up so they're both home now and adjusting well. Adopt don't shop!
