Farewell My Friend

[Dlyne8r]

Originally Posted by Lady Brave

This afternoon I made the decision to have my cocker spaniel, Puddin, put down. He was 12 1/2 years old. The hardest part about it was saying to the Vet, "Go ahead and do it." That was tough. I kept second guessing as to whether or not I was making the decision too early, but I really didn't have a lot of options. He had lost his sight and hearing. He had lost weight and was having trouble getting up and down. The Vet felt like it was time as well.

I am really grateful though. His passing was so peaceful. Puddin was like me... fiesty and stubborn at times, but he laid there so calm with his nose on my chest. There was no struggle. It's almost like he was saying, "I'm tired. I'm ready to go." He didn't make a sound and just slipped away peacefully.

Sorry this is so depressing, but I just wanted to get it off my chest. This is the first time I've ever had to do something like this. I handled it better than I thought I would. I guess it's because I had already been preparing myself for it over the past few weeks. I will miss him terribly though. He was a wonderful dog and a faithful friend. May he rest in peace.

My thoughts are with you...and Puddin. I have said many times that I much prefer the company of our family dog (or any pet for that matter) over the company of most humans. Dogs are like young children, they give you unconditional love. You come home from work, pat 'em on the head, feed them, love them, and they love you forever. Unfortunately, you can't say that about people. It's more like "what have you done for me lately?" Anyway, I've been where you're at Lady Brave and my heart goes out to you. I've had to put one down and I was a total wreck for weeks leading up to that moment. I am a man, and I'm not ashamed to say that when I came out of the vet's exam room afterward, I was balling like a little kid and could hardly write the check for their services. I cried more for that dog than I have for some family members at their funeral (I know, that's harsh ). Your best medicine? Hurry down to a rescue shelter or somewhere and quickly bring home another furry bundle of joy!