Re: tough decision -- Talking Circle Alternative

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Date Posted: Wed, 12/25/02 8:02am
Author: CaseynGeneva
Subject: Re: tough decision
In reply to: Steve Russell 's message, "Re: tough decision" on Tue, 12/24/02 6:53pm

Steve:

I lost my German shepherd last year. She died in my arms (found out later it was a tumor on her spleen that had ruptured). It broke my heart. I was closer with her than any other animal I had. Because I've been housebound for the last several years, she had become my constant companion (she even waited at the door when I used the bathroom). She was also my confidante. I could tell her things that I'm not comfortable telling even my own husband. Dogs just have a way of understanding, and they never say anything stupid ;) They are great listeners.

As for crying...I'm impressed with a man who has the strength to cry.

Since you asked, I will tell you what I would do in your situation....

I would not go for the treatment. Not because of the cost, but because it will not give her that much more time and it could possibly kill her. If she's not in pain, I would do nothing but love her. Spend as much time as you can with her, tell her how much she means to you (though she already knows that), and just enjoy this final stretch of life with her.

If she starts to exhibit pain, she'll tell you when she's ready for you to make that decision to let her go. You'll see it in her eyes.

This happened with our dog before our German shepherd. She had been my husband's dog before we met and had moved with him from AZ to CA to IL. She was a fine dog. As her kidneys failed, I tried desperately to keep her going with epidermal IV fluids. But when her pain started, she "told" us when it was time.

We found a vet who made housecalls (she was always nervous whenever we took her to the vet). The vet came out, gave us some time to say our final good-byes, and then gave her the shot as she lay in her favorite spot under a tree in the backyard as we thanked her for sharing her life with us. That is where she is buried.

She sounds like one heck of a dog. You've given her a good life. She's given you a good life. Just treasure the time you have left together.

Kathy

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Replies:

Re: tough decision -- Steve Russell, Wed, 12/25/02 9:47am
- Re: tough decision -- earthw7, Wed, 12/25/02 10:57pm