The dog I have had and loved for over 15 years was put down today . It was the best decision anyone could have made for him because he was suffering and in pain, but it's still hard knowing that he's gone. What do you do to deal with the loss of a pet? I don't doubt that some of you might find sadness over the death of a pet over the top but to me, my pets are part of my family and their death saddens me as much as a person's would. As hard as it is to know he's gone, at least he is not in pain anymore. That's something to be happy about, yes?
Be happy they lived a good life. 15 years is good going for a dog. I usually get another pet for the house after losing one...
I do like my pets, and I really am truly sorry to hear that news. It's better that his suffering was put to an end. I understand about treating your dog as you would a person, and I share the same opinion. I hope your dog is happy now where ever he is -Hecky
it has to be a mixed feeling. no pain for the dog. but missing a member of the family who is always there to welcome you is hard. i feel mixed feelings here. sorry for you missing your dog. but for the dog it is good to hae no pain anymore.
sorry to hear that. I can't relate but animals are like family.. especially when one is emotionally attached to them. Yes, what you did was the best decision in that situation because no one wants to see their companion in pain. At least the pain is gone and just embrace the fact that he experienced a loving life with you What more could he have asked for? I'm sure he was more fortunate than others out there, his life should be celebrated. Remembering about the good memories you had with him might feel help lead to some closure.
Thank you all for your kind words and support. I am glad that he is no longer in pain but of course I miss him and wish there had been another way He did live a long life and for that I am grateful. I got to spend my childhood until now growing up with him and I will never forget those memories.
I was thinking the other day, if your pet passed away, what type of photo is the best for remembering them? One where you're in the picture with them, one where they're young, one where they're sleeping or whatever? Something to really capture the moment. Anyway, it's just to think about. -Hecky.
That's a good question and definitely something to think about. Right now I have a picture of him as the wallpaper on my cell phone. But there are actually a lot of good photos of my boy, it'd be hard to pick one that really captures how special he was.
Very sorry for your loss but please think of the bright side to this. At least ur dog is no longer in pain and that your dog has lived a happy 15 yrs of his life.. that's not so bad at all.
Sorry to hear the bad news, Denise. I still miss my dog and she died ten years ago. Maybe getting a new puppy would help.
I do have another dog already - but this one was my baby. I grew up with him so it makes the loss that much harder to take. Thank you for the support Rob but at this point it's probably too soon for another puppy. Maybe a little down the road I can consider getting another dog. He was an awesome guy and he will definitely be missed!
No, he didn't have cancer. He became completely blind and lost almost all of his hearing. It got to the point where he was walking into walls, people, doors, etc. The worst part was that his back would keep going out, causing him to be in pain - when that would happen he would be unable to walk. He couldn't support himself on his back legs and would suffer. There was nothing anyone could do for him.
I'm so sorry to hear that. When my last cat died I was a bit sad but really it was his time, he was 18/19 and he was near enough blind. After a while we got some new kittens (was only going to get one, but they were so nice...had to get both of them), it's made my other cat more friendly too (he likes having another cat to play with and hunt with), he started bringing in more mice and animals though, seems to want to teach the new kittens how to hunt.
I am very sorry for the loss of your friend. You did the right thing and cared for your dog as best you could. They know that even if they can't tell you. I would be very grateful to have a dog that lived 15 years. I know your pain as I have thought what it would be like to lose my Daizy that I have raised for 8 years. She is getting old for a large breed dog and is slowly showing her age when she is slow to get up because of her hips. Remember the good times and maybe it would be good to shop for a puppy. Puppies can make you laugh and they are sooo cute! And don't forget the puppy breath smell!
Thank you Twisted and Firegirl. I'll consider getting another dog when enough time has passed. I am very glad I got to spend so many years with him - I will always be grateful for that. I appreciate everyone's condolences and I am trying to remember that he's no longer suffering. That at least is a good thing!
Hey 15 years=105 DOG YEARS. That must of been a healthy dog since he lived for so long. Sorry to hear that, my puppy died 3 months ago. - Prilep