Today is a rough day.

[kentuck]

I had to put my dog to sleep last night.

We almost lost him six months ago but he made a miraculous recovery and the last six months have been some of the best of his life.

Last Wednesday, he lost all movement in his back legs and was in severe pain. We took him to the emergency room and they suggested larger doses of prednisome and some pain medications. We thought there might be another miracle in him but he took a turn for the worse last night and we had to take him to vet's emergency room once again. He was in critical condition and extreme pain.

We decided it was time for him to go.

He was a great animal and a great friend.

[sinkingfeeling]

1. I'm very sorry for your loss. Making the decision to let them go is very hard.

[elocs]

2. Sorry. I've been there more than once. It's hard. n/t

[madmax]

3. So sorry for you kentuck.

Been there several times and it never got any easier. My heart goes out to you. :hug:

Just know that you gave him a good life and he gave you unconditonal love.

[mike_c]

4. that last ride to the vet is one of life's lowest points....

I'm terribly sorry for your loss, kentuck.

[Stuart G]

5. Very Sorry for You.

[cmd]

6. I'm so sorry

We are still grieving over our little friend who was put down last November. Saturday we go another dog from a rescue. He's a sweetie, but he isn't our Pretzel. May your pooch rest in peace.

[Ohio Joe]

7. My condolences - RIP - nt

[Rex]

8. I'm so sorry kentuck.

:( :cry:

[JuniperLea]

9. Doing the right thing can feel like the worst thing...

I feel for you... some of my saddest memories in life are putting beloved animals down for that eternal nap. It's been seven years since I had to do that last, and I'm still not over it. I have the deepest possible empathy for you and your family, kentuck. I hope your mind rests easy soon.

[jaxx]

10. I'm so sorry.

It kind of rips a piece of your heart out to lose a great friend like that.

[Angry Dragon]

11. ..............

:hug:

[cherokeeprogressive]

He's chasing butterflies right now...

And when he catches them he lets them go.

So sorry for your loss kentuck.

[kestrel91316]

69. Naw, he's chasin' BEES. But they don't sting.

[GreenPartyVoter]

12. I'm so sorry! *hugs*

[Mz Pip]

13. Oh, I am so sorry.

It's so hard to see pets suffer. You did the right thing as much as it hurt.

We lost our cat last month, similar thing. He got sick, the prednisone helped for a couple of weeks then he lost the use of his back legs. He couldn't be a cat anymore.

So hard to say good bye; they become such a big part of our lives. :cry:

[livetohike]

14. I'm so sorry for your loss kentuck

:hug:. One of the hardest, but most kind things to do for our friends. I hope you will remember all the good times you had together and that will help ease the sadness and worry of the last few months.

[Liberal_in_LA]

15. :-(

:-(

[wysingm]

16. Rainbow Bridge

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Keep your chin up.

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

[tavalon]

147. I knew someone would put it here.

Thank you, wysingm.

[Ishoutandscream2]

192. That always brings tears to my eyes

[leveymg]

17. I am sorry. Went through something similar several years ago with a member of our family.

[SoCalDem]

18. I am so sorry you lost your pooch.. It's never easy to let them go

We've lost two kitties in the last year.. That's the only downside of living with animals.. they have such short lives We can only console ourselves by knowing that they had a good life with us, and we loved them, and will miss them :hug:

[barbtries]

19. i'm sorry kentuck

:hug:

[Tikki]

20. I am so very sorry....

May your family find comfort in memories of the great times with your furfriend.


Tikki

[tblue37]

21. My heart goes out to you. My 18 1/2 year old cat Lila might

be leaving me soon, though I hope not. But even if I manage to get her better than she is right now, at 18 1/2 she obviously cannot last all that much longer.

I honestly hope she goes suddenly in her sleep someday, with no pain and no fear. Having to decide that it is the day to take a beloved pet in to be put to sleep is, I think, one of the hardest things we have to deal with at the end of their lives. Always we second-guess ourselves about whether it is the right time, and sometimes--as with my 19-year-old cat back in 2005--we wait too long and the poor thing suffers more than he or she should.

[emilyg]

22. So sorry. Hugs.

[geckosfeet]

23. Sorry to hear kentuck. But if he was suffering so much it was the best thing.

I lost my guy a year and half ago. Damn. It still hurts.

[Botany]

24. you did the right thing

you can make you good friend stop suffering ... but still it hurts you to do it.

all the best,
botany/tom

[kentuck]

29. It was time for him to go but...

tears are running down my eyes as I write this.

[kas125]

37. It's one of the hardest things in the world to do, but it is the

kindest thing we can do for them when we know it's time. My heart goes out to you. It so sucks that dogs don't live as long as we do, but I've come to realize that it happens for a reason - so we can have even more of them to share our lives with. I've learned things from every dog I've had and each has enriched my life in some way. I'm hoping the pain of your loss will soon be replaced by happy memories.

[tavalon]

145. Tears here too, reading it.

[Ichingcarpenter]

25. My dog is really my best friend

and all my friends love her.

I know how tough it is on this.



This is a great documentary on the science of dogs and humans

Dogs Decoded reveals the science behind the remarkable bond between humans and their dogs and investigates new discoveries in genetics that are illuminating the origin of dogs – with surprising implications for the evolution of human culture.

Other research is proving what dog lovers have suspected all along: Dogs have an uncanny ability to read and respond to human emotions.
Humans, in turn, respond to dogs with the same hormone responsible for bonding mothers to their babies.

How did this incredible relationship between humans and dogs come to be? And how can dogs, so closely related to fearsome wild wolves, behave so differently?
http://topdocumentaryfilms.com/dogs-decoded/


I feel your grief.

[hifiguy]

26. I am so sorry

I lost a much-loved cat last summer, very suddenly even though I knew he was an old kitty. Cried every day for weeks afterwards.

May there be a safe passage for your dear friend.

:hug:

[lisa58]

27. I'm so sorry for your loss

[lukasahero]

28. I'm so sorry kentuck

I hope time will ease your pain and allow you to remember your friend with peace and laughter.

[alsame]

30. So sorry for you. May he RIP over the Rainbow Bridge.

:hug:

[Nostradammit]

31. Oh kentuck, I am so sad for you -

That is one of the hardest things to do. What kind of dog was he?
What was his name? Do you have a picture of him handy that I could see?

I just went over and gave my two Labs a good scratching - thanks for the
reminder that our time with them is so short.

[Zoeisright]

32. Oh, I'm sorry. I know how you feel.

Remember the good times and that you gave him a wonderful life.

[texastoast]

33. How sad to hear this

It never gets any easier for us to do the "right" thing for our beloveds.

:cry:

[Dappleganger]

34. Be at peace, my friend.

:hug:

[midnight]

35. Such a tough decsion to say good bye to such a great friend..

Sad to hear about this kentuck.. Hugs...

[Cetacea]

36. Very sorry for your loss..

That he is no longer suffering is the one good thing about it.

[TygrBright]

38. I'm so sorry, kentuck...

Lost my little fuzzy guy recently, too. It's a terrible wrench, because our animal companions are so much a part of our everyday life. I found myself looking for him in all "his" places, expecting to hear his meow when I came downstairs, listening for him outside the bedroom door in the morning...

It's very tough. Hang in there. They come to us for a time, to bring love and companionship and learning, and then they must leave, and we remain without them. But much of what they brought us doesn't leave. You'll have the love and learning forever.

empathetically,
Bright

[sasha031]

39. I am so sorry for your loss

been there, I know how hard it is. He was blessed to have such a loving family.:cry:

[bullwinkle428]

40. I'm totally sorry for your loss. I know the feeling all too well.

[Libby2]

41. I'm so sorry. I've been down that awful road too.

You have my sincere sympathy. ((hugs))

[luvspeas]

42. It's been almost 2 years since my boy left me...

I still can tear up at the thought of him. At 13 1/2 he had a small tumor on his tail and we had the tip of his tail removed hoping that would be that. I had one extra wonderful year with him. I was working from home and he just followed me from room to room and when I needed a break we would go out for long hikes in the Austin countryside. He was a little slower and a lot less crazy, and so so so smart. He got sick really quickly and within a week he died in my arms. We didn't know until a couple of days before that he was riddled with tumors inside.

You gave him a great gift of those last few months. I'm sure he stayed as long as he could for you. Sometimes they just won't go and we have to help them along. You cared for him and did the best for him for as long as he was yours.

for your sake, mine, and everybody else with a beloved pet, my sincerest hope is that we all meet them again on the other side.

[Spike89]

43. It's tough but it's the one thing they really need from us

They give and give and it's remarkable how little they actually need/want from us. Sure, most of us are wonderful and spoil our pets, but it isn't required to earn the devotion of a dog. Some food, a little of our time, and compassion at the end is a pretty small price for years of unconditional love a good dog provides.

[11 Bravo]

44. Sorry for your loss, kentuck.

I've had to do it myself, and it was never easy. But once their pain outstrips their ability to appreciate your love for them ... it's time. Know that your buddy loved you to his last breath.

You're in my thoughts.

[iscooterliberally]

45. You have my empathy.

I had to do the same thing a couple of years ago. My Cisco was my shadow for more than a decade. He was in a rock n roll band with me. He used to come into the bars after closing time and all the bartenders knew him. He would sit up on the drum riser with a t-bone while we loaded out at the end of the night. Now I have three big dogs that are all mix breeds. One is a rescue, another a refugee, and the last a death row inmate from the pound. I hope you have room in your heart for another one. If you do, please adopt. My condolences. :grouphug:

[Warpy]

46. You bought him an extra six months to enjoy being a dog

but it's always so hard to lose a four footed family member. They're the only ones who love us uncritically, not caring whether we're having a bad hair day, broke out in zits, or screwed up at work. They just love us as we are, wherever we are.

I'm so sorry you lost him.

[RebelOne]

47. Really, really sorry for your loss.

I feel your pain. I had to send my beloved Rottweiler to doggie heaven last July. I still miss her. Just be comforted in the fact that you gave your doggie a happy live while he was with you. My Rottie had bone and liver cancer and I tried to make her as comfortable as possible. But finally, none of the pain meds were working any longer and she could barely walk, so we had to take that final trip to the vet. As least when you let him go, you knew he was no longer in pain. At least, that was my feeling when I put my doggie down. She was almost 13 years old and had a long and spoiled life with me.

[Bonhomme Richard]

48. I'm sorry. It's terrible to lose a friend. n/t

[aj_cd]

49. I don't talk about pets much

but I am so sorry for your loss.

Almost 20 yrs ago my dog died. The loss was awful and most people around seemed to have no clue or understand how much I was grieving. Then I suspect someone let my cat out on purpose cause they did not like cats. That was loss and betrayal. I have not had a pet since. I mostly just let people assume I am not a pet person. Truth is I don't want go through that again.

[EFerrari]

50. I'm so sorry, kentuck.

[dhill926]

51. very sorry for you.....

have gone through this as well. I'm sure your dog had a great life......it will take time to recover. Raise a glass, and remember the good times.

[TBF]

52. It's so hard to let them go -

I'm sorry for your loss.

[roguevalley]

53. I am so sorry. This is so hard. I had to do this with my Robby in

January. He looked at me and I knew. Bladder cancer. I promised myself I would not keep them going for me. If they couldn't, we wouldn't. You did the same. You loved him enough to let him go. I hug you.

[slackmaster]

54. I watched Marley & Me last night

Sorry for your loss, kentuck.

[Kceres]

55. They['ll break your heart every time, dammit.

But they're so worth the tears. An ideal heaven: every pet you've loved and lost will run up to meet you, tails wagging, purring, jumping. Healing thoughts your way, kentuck.

[malaise]

56. It's an awful moment

Been there, done that :grouphug:

[Jawja]

57. So sorry for your loss...

:hug:

[onethatcares]

58. that's why I keep saying to my self

no more dogs, until I see one that likes me. Then the whold damn thing starts all over again.

I don't know how to express the sympathy I feel for you. Can I just say it's real.

[Moondog]

59. Condolences.

The saddest thing about our companion animals is that we frequently outlive them.

If DUer Skittles were here, and I see she has not been, she would probably post this quote -

Grieve not,
nor speak of me with tears,
but laugh and talk of me
as if I were beside you.....
I loved you so --
'twas Heaven here with you.

--by Isla Paschal Richardson

[stevedeshazer]

60. Sorry, buddy.

Lost mine last year. I know how it feels.

[Mnemosyne]

61. Oh, kentuck...

:hug::hug::hug:

[Iggo]

62. Goddam, that is tough.

Sorry for your loss.

[zappaman]

63. My condolences.

Always a tough thing to do.
As someone told me once, "dogs are great to have, but it always ends sadly."
Remember the time you had.

[guitar man]

64. So sorry to hear that :(

We had to do the same for our beloved dog Birdie last August. We had her 11 years,it was the hardest thing to do but I know it was the right thing.

Peace be with you and yours :hug:

[Lugnut]

65. I'm so sorry, kentuck.

It's so hard to let a buddy go. :hug:

[CoffeeCat]

66. I am so sorry for your loss...

I am happy that you had these six months, and that your dog really enjoyed the time as well.

I know that doesn't help your broken heart now.

Take care and realize that your dog loved you as much as you loved him.

[eowyn_of_rohan]

67. So very sorry....

I lost my dog 2 years ago in a terrible way. I love him still, and feel his love inside me every day. May your ever-lasting bond bring you comfort and peace.

[kestrel91316]

68. Poor poopie. So sorry.

:hug: :cry:

[Cherchez la Femme]

70. I dearly empathize :(

[Vinca]

71. I'm so sorry.

[proud patriot]

72. always hard to say goodbye to a friend

:hug:

[Drew Richards]

73. I Have a Message For You

I am truly sorry, Your best friends is gone....but the LOVE Remains,... they are always with us just close your eyes and think of your friend and he is there.

Drew. :cry:

[rustydog]

74. That was the most loving thing you did last night. Your beloved dog

is free from pain.

[uppityperson]

75. My condolences. I'm going to be posting this soon myself

He can still get up sometimes, needs one back leg put under him. Our animal friends do not last long enough. RIP and my condolences.

[WatchWhatISay]

76. Could you post a picture of him?

Keep him in your heart forever.

[kentuck]

80. I don't know how to post a photo

or I would. He was a beautiful border collie/shepherd mix.

[westerebus]

77. He's running around with my two.

Bear and Maggie. He's in good company.

Take care.

[Chorophyll]

78. So sorry, Kentuck.

:hug:

[Terra Alta]

79. I'm so sorry.

:hug:

[Shagbark Hickory]

81. Hugs to you and yours.

:hug: :grouphug:

[Samantha]

82. I am so sorry for your loss, kentuck

So, so sorry to hear this news.

Sam

[Kaleko]

83. So sorry for your loss, kentuck.

Sometimes my Biesele comes to me in a dream. She tells me she's alive and well, just waiting for us in another realm to meet again.

[MissDeeds]

84. I am so very sorry, kentuck

I know what you're going through. You're in my thoughts and prayers, friend.

:hug:

[no_hypocrisy]

85. I'm very sorry for your loss, Kentuck. You loved him more than can be expressed.

You did the right thing for the right reason at the right time.

[Omaha Steve]

86. So hard to lose any loved one

Marta and I send good karma your way.

[underpants]

87. Sorry to hear that

our cats are getting older and one is really overweight. Within 5 years we will probably lose them.

[gristy]

88. I'm so sorry, kentuck

IF I SHOULD GROW FRAIL

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.

(author unknown)

[derby378]

89. I am so sorry for your loss

Ginny and I had to put down one of our cats a few years ago after losing all movement in her back legs and some in her front. The vet told us it was an inoperable tumor, and we didn't want her to suffer.

:hug:

[aggiesal]

90. What hurts the most is the look in their eyes.

They seem to know what's coming and just accept it.

I feel for your loss.

[1620rock]

91. So very sorry...hugs.

[qanda]

92. So sorry for your loss

[UpInArms]

93. I am so sorry for your loss

((((hugs))))

[The Midway Rebel]

94. Sorry for your loss.

Thanks for being a good friend to this amimal.

[KoKo]

95. Sorry to hear about this, Kentuck.

I've got one of mine on his last legs...just hanging on. It's a hard thing to go through. Folks one interact with many times don't get how it's like death of family member when this happens. But, it is like death of family member...because they are.

Peace and Love to you. I think our passing animal friends understand when we hold them in our arms and deal with their passing. Looking back to those good days is something sustaining. I dream my dreams with them as they cross over. It hurts like anything ..that worse I can't imagine.

As I said...I've got one that will soon pass on. It's hard to think of it. Lost his sister three years ago and neither he nor we got over it, really...except to remember those good times...like we do with favorite relatives who pass on and we know that to remember the "Good Times" is to keep that "vibe" going on with them ..wherever they go...wherever WE GO that we might, hopefully, in our dreams, meet up with them again...somewhere.

Peace and hopeful, sympathetic thoughts to you. :cry:

[Highway61]

96. I am so sorry

Been there. :hug:

[liberalmike27]

97. So Sorry

Been there, done that, one of the worst things I've had to do. But I have to feel we made the right choices. They are hopefully in better places.

[FourScore]

98. He has gone ahead of you, and will greet you again when you catch up.

:hug:

[Mira]

99. So sad. So sorry. How magnificent they are who never talk back and just love us as we are. nt

[williesgirl]

100. My heart goes out to you. My Boston Terrier (9 yr) died 3 wks ago. My

heart is broken. At least they're not suffering. rec'd

[Divernan]

101. I'm very sorry for your loss.

[MannyGoldstein]

102. Peace to all.

My heart is with you.

[TheKentuckian]

103. Sorry brother, I know your heart hurts. I'm thinking of you@

[cliffordu]

104. I know that love. I know that pain. I know that blessing.

And I don't care what people who've never loved a pet say.

They are a blessing, and worth it.

[cigsandcoffee]

105. I'm very sorry for your loss. n/t

[Darth_Kitten]

106. Sorry for your loss.

:hug:

[me b zola]

107. I'm so sorry Kentuck

Just know that you are not alone. My condolences :grouphug:

[suffragette]

108. So sorry for your loss

:hug:

[redwitch]

109. A rough day indeed.

I am sorry for the loss of your beloved boy.

[donheld]

110. So sorry

:hug:

[bertman]

111. It's so sad to lose a good friend like that. Cherish the memories. nt

[bear425]

112. I'm so sorry for your loss.

It's devastating to lose a friend. I wish you peace in your difficult decision. :hug:

[jeanmarc]

113. I like you and feel for you

You're one of the great ones here. I still have pics of my pooch and I miss her. I cried hard tears when I had to put her down.

Best advice is to get another one and fast. I didn't and it's a mistake.

[Chipper Chat]

114. You are not alone.

We had to put our 13-yr old Lapsa down a month ago (had a stroke). Now it's a 21-yr old deaf white cat. He has arthritis but eats like a horse. We should put him down but he looks at you with big kind eyes and purs and purs. Gonna be tough.

[WilliamPitt]

115. (((HUG)))

:hug:

I'm sorry, bro.

[snappyturtle]

116. I'm so sorry kentuck. It is a VERY rough day.

:hug:

[jwirr]

117. So sorry. They love us regardless of our flaws and it is terrible to

lose them.

[erinlough]

118. I'm so sorry for your loss

Just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes.

[YvonneCa]

119. ...

...:hug:

[ZombieHorde]

120. I'm sorry you lost your friend. Dogs rule. nt

[MrMickeysMom]

121. {{{{{hugs}}}}}

Sharing pain with you .... but, I glad he had those months with you, kentuck.

Here's to your baby...

[kimi]

122. I'm so sorry

It is heartbreaking. Good that you all had these last 6 months, and good that you made a decision that was excruciating for you but best for the pup. Sometimes, in spite of the miracles we desire or have experienced in the past with our pets, the most lasting miracle is that we can be there for them as they make a safe passage.

Take care. :hug:

[webDude]

123. God bless you, he truly was fortunate to have someone like you to take care...

... of him. I am sure you know this one, "it will never go away, but it will get better." I am sorry for your loss.

[bigwillq]

124. I am very sorry for your loss.

:hug:

[lucca18]

125. I am sorry to hear of your loss.

It was good that you had six more months that were very special between you and your dear dog, who was also your friend.

[freshwest]

126. Tough thing at any time... ;(

:hug:

[vietnam_war_vet]

127. It never gets any easier

Kentuck: My deepest condolences for your loss.

We had to euthanize our oldest English Mastiff, Yogi, early in the morning of March 15th. He was 9 years, 4 plus months old. That's not too shabby for a giant breed.

Starting late the evening before (March 14th), his health suddenly deteriorated. He had been doing quite well. His weight was down to 205 (from 252 late last summer) due to our Vet's special high fiber diet.

I habitually call my wife, Kat, before I leave the pool where I teach evening aquatic exercise classes. I called her about 7 p.m. on March 14th. She immediately asked me how Yogi was doing before I had left to teach my evening class. I responded that he was apparently fine, climbing up onto our king bed just before I left.

Kat then told me that he now refused to move for her. He wouldn't even move for his evening meal. Yogi had always had a healthy appetite. Kat tried to hand-feed him some meat and dog biscuits....he wasn't interested.

I raced home. Yogi was on the floor rug next to our bed. I did get him to get up and go outside to pee, but then he came right back in, laid down on the floor next to our bed, and basically didn't move from there all night long.

Kat stayed on the floor next to him all night. I slept for a few hours because I had an early aquatics class the next morning. About 4:30 a.m. - I also got up and joined in with Kat's vigil of him. About 6 a.m., we decided that he had to go to our Vet's - most likely to be euthanized. He did manage to walk out to Kat's car in our garage. She took them to our Vet's and waited for them to open.

Our Vet knew and loved Yogi. She told Kat that his rapid, shallow breathing and thousand-mile stare were indicators that he was in severe pain. She diagnosed that either his arthritic rear hips and legs had suddenly worsened....or it was a form of congestive heart failure. She said that euthanizing him was the humane thing to do. At 7:45 a.m. March 15th, Yogi was euthanized while Kat held his massive head.

It's now been almost 2 months and our household is still grieving, although not as much as right after Yogi was put down. Both of our other dogs (also English Mastiffs) still sense that something is amiss, after all - they can still sense/smell Yogi inside and outside of our house. Kat and I are still having occasional crying jags. We did what was needed to be done, but that doesn't diminish the sorrow and feeling of loss we both still feel. His presence is so missed. RIP, dear sweet Yogi.

Yes, Kentuck, it never gets any easier. -- Michael

[Iwillnevergiveup]

128. When I read your subject line, Kentuck,

I guessed it would be about another wonderful animal who has left us. You did the right thing, and your precious dog is at peace, but it's still so very, very hard to say good-bye. You came to the right place to share your sorrow - we all feel it and wish you comfort and peace.

And hugs.

:hug:

[Quixote1818]

129. Very sorry to hear this! Hang in there! nt

[Quixote1818]

131. .

[DesertFlower]

130. so sorry. nt

[arthritisR_US]

132. My heart breaks for you, (((kentuck))). n/t

[calimary]

133. So sorry to hear this, kentuck. Sometimes I think it's harder when the ailing family member

isn't human. Our human loved ones can speak to us about their pain and discomfort and what ails them (unless, of course, they're not conscious). Our animal loved ones can't.

My sympathies. So sorry for your loss.

:hug: :grouphug: :hug:

[Lursa CB]

134. Very sorry, but I believe he'll be waiting for you on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge

{{hugs}}

[Bluesbreaker]

135. Just went through the same thing

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My little buddy of ten years, a Jack Russel named Duo, had to be put to sleep after he was stricken with canine autoimmune disease. He fought like a champ for months but couldn't overcome it. I still miss him a lot. You did the right thing to let him go and spare him more pain.

[orleans]

136. deeply sorry

the hardest thing is having to say goodbye -- for now

i believe you'll be together again, as i believe you will with everyone you love. it's the love that keeps us connected, and sadly, sometimes it's the only thing we have left to hold on to.

i went through something very similar with my beautiful friend.

i'm really sorry to hear about this. you were fortunate to have each other.
:hug: :cry: :hug:

[Speed8098]

137. Sorry to hear that

Being an animal lover it is hard to know when to let them go. I hate the fact that you lost a loyal companion but I admire you for making the decision to not let your dog suffer. It's an extremely tough decision that I've also have had to face before. Take comfort that he is not in pain any longer.

[colorado_ufo]

138. So sorry!

Been there, done that; and unless a person has, he can't understand how much it hurts.

[Solly Mack]

139. I'm so sorry for your loss, kentuck.

:hug:

[mahina]

140. Wishing you healing Kentuck.

Hoping your hearts mend. Aloha brother.

[Bluebear]

141. I have been through that hell many times. There are no words.

I am very, very sorry for you. You did what was best for your friend.

[cate94]

142. Sorry for your loss

:hug:

[kentuck]

143. Thanks to everyone for your kind thoughts.

I came down the stairs this morning and I reached down to pet him and he was not there. I have always believed that people that will mistreat animals will mistreat people. It is good to see so many animal lovers here.

[tavalon]

149. There are so many animal lovers here

And we always forget disagreements here when we remember that we share this in common. May your grief dull quickly (though it probably won't) and that the sharp stabs will come with less frequency and one day, you can remember the hilarious times without following them with tears. It really can happen. But probably not today or soon. He was a very lucky person owner.

[tavalon]

144. That is the hardest part about being a doggie's family

We have an option that we can give them that we don't even have for ourselves. The downside is the not knowing when it's the right time. You've been through the hardest moment, now you go through the long and hard grief that comes with saying goodbye to your friend. I hope someone later in the thread mentions The Rainbow Bridge.

I'm so sorry for you but so grateful that your dog had you as his caregiver and family. And I'm looking at my goofy standard poodle, 12 years old, lounging on the couch like nothing in the world could ever be better and I'm crying, for you and for me.

[GigiMommy]

146. I'm so so sorry for your loss. nt

:hug:

[gademocrat7]

148. I am so sorry for your loss.

I hope the memories of your beloved dog will bring you comfort.

[Hubert Flottz]

150. My dogs are family to me...

I hope you feel better soon.

[Doctor_J]

151. We have only a month or so left with ours

She's fading fast, but is still not in pain, so I can squeeze another month of love from her. Dreading the last day.

Best wishes

[Island Blue]

152. Hugs.

I'm so sorry, Kentuck. I had to put one of my cats down on Halloween morning last year and it was one of the most difficult things that I've ever had to do. :hug:

[City Lights]

153. I'm very sorry for your loss, kentuck.

:hug:

[TomClash]

154. I'm not a big fan of dogs but . . .

. . . I can understand that " e was a great animal and a great friend." You did the right thing and I'm sorry for your pain and his.

[Puglover]

155. It is horribly tough when a friend departs this earth. I'm so sorry.

:hug:

[ewagner]

156. So sorry Kentuck

I still haven't recovered from the loss of my best friend over 6 years ago...can't bring myself to get another dog because I don't think I can replace her ever and I NEVER want to go through that again.

[raccoon]

157. I'm sorry for your loss. Sounds like you made the right decision.

:hug:

[Lifelong Protester]

158. I know how bad you feel and I am sorry for your loss. We had to

do the same several years back. I am so sorry, as I know it is a terrible blow. You did the right thing. And you gave a companion animal a great life of love and attention.

[Call Me Wesley]

159. Safe passage to your dog.

May he be free from suffering. Peace and comfort to you and yours, kentuck.

[laylah]

160. I am so sorry for your loss,

Kentuck. Healing thoughts and prayers sent your way. :hug:

[Zorra]

161. Everyone that's ever lost their great dog friend(s) knows.

"He spoke through tears of 15 years how his dog and him
traveled about
The dog up and died, he up and died
And after 20 years he still grieves"

So very sorry, Kentuck.

[leftynyc]

162. {{{Kentuck}}}

I'm so very sorry about dog and friend. You did the right thing in not prolonging his pain. You'll be in my prayers.

[Granny M]

163. So sorry, Kentuck.

My heart goes out to you and yours today. We lost our beloved pet recently, so I understand the pain you're feeling. Hugs.

[placton]

164. my thoughts are with you

you may wanna visit the RAINBOW BRIDGE website - I have outlasted some of my family dogs, and it's a nice place to visit then.

[myrna minx]

165. I'm so sorry for your loss.

:hug:

[catbyte]

166. Condolences. They are family.

[gaijinlaw]

167. I'm very sorry to hear it.

It's one of the worst feelings in the world. I hope the grief passes quickly and only your best memories of him remain.

[TuxedoKat]

168. So sorry

for the loss of your beloved dog. (((HUGS)))

[emulatorloo]

169. Kentuck, I am so sorry. I know you gave him a wonderful life, full of love and fun.

It is so hard to lose a good friend like that.

He's going to want you to give another dog the same wonderful life you gave him.

When you are ready, he'll help you find a new companion to share with.

[theFrankFactor]

170. My Condolences.

Animals have always played a significant role in my life. It is hard to explain to someone that hasn't experienced it just what a bond you can develop.

It hurts every time and only time heals the wound but the scar still remains. But every time... the value is beyond measure and well worth the mark.

[DainBramaged]

171. All my best my friend

been there


You'll find each other again.

:cry:

[leftygolfer]

172. My dog is closer to me than most human family

I know we'll be at the point one day when we have to say goodbye. NOt sure how I'll ever get through it. my most heartfelt condolances.

[atreides1]

173. The Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

[CrispyQ]

174. ...

:hug:

[Paper Roses]

175. I've been in the same position. I feel your pain. It took 11 years

before I could get another pet. My kitty was a family member and she is still with me today. I have another kitty now but nothing will replace my old friend. I feel your heartbreak.

I care for a very special dog, she is getting old and slowing down so much. Has had much medical care through the years. When it is her time, I will be as devastated as you are.

[era veteran]

176. Very sorry for your loss.

Friends without question, I so love dogs. Rest easy.

[G_j]

177. so very sorry

:hug:

[Plucketeer]

178. My condolences

We'vew gone thru this several times in this household - with feathered family members. I've got one sitting on my shoulder this very moment. He makes me wonder if I'll recover when his time is up - he's been with us for 28 years now.
The ONLY reason I'd hope for an afterlife is on the hopes that I'd be reunited with all my pets from this world.

[Fire1]

179. So sorry, kentuck. Had to put my little fella down last week.

We had him a very long time and he was suffering from kidney failure. He was in pain so I know we did the right thing. My husband stayed with him until the end (I couldn't do it). The Vet staff was wonderful. They sent us his paw print with a condolence card and the poem "Rainbow Bridge." I swear, that is the only poem that I've ever read that makes me cry EVERYTIME I read it. I miss him.

[NOLALady]

180. I am so sorry for your loss.

:hug: :hug:

My Kitty went to the Rainbow Bridge a few days ago. My emotions are still so raw.

[driver8]

181. I'm so sorry for your loss...

It is never easy to say goodbye to such special members of our families.

Feel better knowing that your sweet boy is no longer in pain.

[AC_Mem]

182. I'm so sorry for your loss

I have a very ill cat, its so hard to watch our furry kids decline and pass. My hope is that you will carry the love of your pet with you and that it will help to ease your grief.

Sincerely,
Annette/Memphis

[Athena66]

183. So very sorry

for your loss. Sometimes, the best gift we can give our four-legged friends is to stop their suffering in a peaceful, pain-free manner. It's hard, though. Just realize that you did the right thing.

[Rainbowreflect]

184. I am so sorry.

We had to do the same with our 15 year old baby last Friday.
It sucks.
I just have to believe that you dog and mine are running and playing together with no pain, just like when they were puppies.
:hug:

[Forkboy]

185. Sorry, Kentuck.

Tough to lose our fuzzy friends. :(

[Left coast liberal]

186. :-( Picture? RIP nice doggie

[Atypical Liberal]

187. sorry for your loss. n/t

[dorksied]

188. The replies in this thread reaffirm my faith in humanity.

condolences to your loss, Kentuck, cherish the memories you have of your friend!

[sellitman]

189. No words will heal. Only time will lessen the grief

Ive done it and dread the day I have to put my Black Lab down.

Hugs

[Jester Messiah]

190. Just remember the good times.

Not hard to do... with a dog, it's pretty much all good times.
Here's to your four-legged pal. :toast:

[Kate Sorensen]

191. I'm so sorry for your loss. . .

.

[kentuck]

193. Thanks everyone.

My feelings are lifted up with your comments. They are much appreciated.