Saying Goodbye to a Companion
Jul 13, 2007 at 10:07 AM Post #31 of 42
Quote:

Originally Posted by kool bubba ice /img/forum/go_quote.gif
Whats irks me are heartless owners.. My friend took in a dog cause the original owners wanted to put it down.. It jumped in the pool too much.. Maybe they need to be put down instead..Less idiots to deal with..


Ah, yes, Pooljumpitis, there's no known cure... but obidience treatments apparently help.
wink.gif


And what vet would do it? Yeah, asked and answered, but still...
 
Jul 13, 2007 at 11:26 AM Post #33 of 42
Reading your original post brought tears as I recalled a similar experience with Luke, the dog in my avatar. The following thought has helped me.

When you bring a dog into your family with the knowledge that you will likely outlive him, you make an implicit pact that you will care for him for the rest of his life. That promise includes terminating his life when his suffering exceeds his pleasures. The fact that keeping this promise is so very painful for you indicates a profound human-canine bond. That you hurt is a tribute to your relationship with Twist. Take solace in the knowledge that you have fulfilled your promise.

Time will help.
 
Jul 13, 2007 at 5:02 PM Post #35 of 42
Well said, Jeff E. Both a tear and a small smile are my response. I will be passing your caring, insightful thoughts on to other dog lovers I know. Thank you.
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeff E /img/forum/go_quote.gif
When you bring a dog into your family with the knowledge that you will likely outlive him, you make an implicit pact that you will care for him for the rest of his life. That promise includes terminating his life when his suffering exceeds his pleasures. The fact that keeping this promise is so very painful for you indicates a profound human-canine bond. That you hurt is a tribute to your relationship with Twist. Take solace in the knowledge that you have fulfilled your promise.


 
Jul 13, 2007 at 8:30 PM Post #37 of 42
Sorry to hear of your loss.

You bring back memories of carrying our 95lb German Shepherd Dog to the Humane Society to be put down. My dad and I just cried out eyes out.
 
Jul 13, 2007 at 10:42 PM Post #38 of 42
Thanks to everyone for your kind thoughts, memories of your own lost companions, and general good feelings. My wife and I try to make sure our pets have happy, well fed, enjoyable lives. When the time comes to let them go, we always try to keep what is best for them in our heart. As Jeff E said, it hurts so much because we bond with them so tightly and care for them so much. If people could give the unquestioning love that our pets do the world would be a much better place.

These messages have helped me remember the good times with Mr. Twist, and those are the things I want to keep in my heart. I'm not a very religious person, but the one hope I do have is that there is a heaven that will let me see all of our old friends again, healthy, happy and with that awesome light shining in their eyes.

Regards,
Mike
 
Jul 13, 2007 at 10:47 PM Post #39 of 42
Greyhound rescues are some of the best stories - good on you for giving Twist a happy home away from the track. The time with you guys was probably the best time of his life.
 
Jul 13, 2007 at 10:54 PM Post #40 of 42
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jahn /img/forum/go_quote.gif
Greyhound rescues are some of the best stories - good on you for giving Twist a happy home away from the track. The time with you guys was probably the best time of his life.


Twister was actually our 4th greyhound. Billy and Al have departed and are probably running with Twist right now. Or snoozing on soft pillows somewhere. Gypsy and Marco are still here, wondering where their pack mate went, but helping mom & dad get over the loss. We're all grieving together but having them to help us out makes it a big bit easier. Even the cats are a little off kilter with him gone. Three of them too, more Humane Society prodigies.
icon10.gif
 
Jul 13, 2007 at 10:57 PM Post #41 of 42
Don't read without kleenexes and a pet nearby to scoop up:

Quote:

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain does keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done
For this - the last battle - can't be won.
You will be sad I understand
But don't let grief then stay your hand.
For on this day, more than the rest
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end.
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don't grieve that it must now be you
Who has to decide this thing to do.
We've been so close - we two -these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

If I Should Grow Frail by Julia Napier


 

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