Praying for strength for both of you to do what must be done. The hardest thing I've ever had to do in my life I've done twice now, and it looms ahead again for us. The best I can offer is Kipling's poem. I challenge any dog lover to read it aloud without choking. I can't.
The Power Of The Dog
Rudyard Kipling
There is sorrow enough in the natural way From men and women to fill our day; And when we are certain of sorrow in store, Why do we always arrange for more? Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.
Buy a pup and your money will buy Love unflinching that cannot lie— Perfect passion and worship fed By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head. Nevertheless it is hardly fair To risk your heart for a dog to tear.
When the fourteen years which Nature permits Are closing in asthma, or tumour, or fits, And the vet’s unspoken prescription runs To lethal chambers or loaded guns, Then you will find—it’s your own affair— But … you’ve given your heart to a dog to tear.
When the body that lived at your single will, With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!). When the spirit that answered your every mood Is gone—wherever it goes—for good, You will discover how much you care, And will give your heart to a dog to tear.
We’ve sorrow enough in the natural way, When it comes to burying Christian clay. Our loves are not given, but only lent, At compound interest of cent per cent. Though it is not always the case, I believe, That the longer we’ve kept ’em, the more do we grieve: For, when debts are payable, right or wrong, A short-time loan is as bad as a long— So why in—Heaven (before we are there) Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear?
Sorry to hear about that! I know where you are because I'm in the same place right now. Our fully retarded, but every happy Aussie can't stand up by himself and doesn't know where he is most of the time. My wife's making "the appointment" this week...
That's what we did with Liesl. Took her out for morning potty and... it was time.
Set the appointment up for the last of the day, spent all day just pampering and loving on her, and then took one of the most horrible trips we've ever taken.
Still miss her.
You and yours are in my thoughts. Grieve, weep, feel depressed, but try to be the people Wolfgang wants you to be, even after he's gone.
I’m sorry for your loss. Those who are not animal lovers generally do not understand the pet/human connection. When you lose a pet you have lost a family member. You are in my prayers!
I'm very sorry to hear this. But you are Wolfgang's best friend and he knows it, and he trusts you to do what's best for him. I grieve with you, but you'll be reunited with him in good health one day. By definition, Heaven won't be Heaven unless our dogs are there with us.
I'm so sorry for your loss, every time I read about some one having to do this I shed a tear for the dogs I have lost. They are special and we are blessed to have them.
Dude. Double whammy. Ya hate having to do it but deep down it is the biggest act of love you can give. May God hold your family in the palm of his hand and forbid any more tragedies.
As George Carlin said....purchasing a pet is acquiring a small future tragedy. Yet we continue to do so knowing what we will eventually have to deal with. Pets make life so much better that the pain at the end is worth it.
A second thought if I may. Things being what they are over here lately, I in hindsight have felt as if I'd lost quite a bit of my humanity. Your sharing Wolfgang's last days as a part of a loving family has made a difference here. Brought back a feeling of that humanity. And for that I thank you. Not part of an expected intent, I'm sure, but real nevertheless. You, The Lady, and Wolfgang have made a difference here.
Sorry for your loss BP - I remember all of the pets that I have help to transition - they are all difficult to do and to remember, but the joy of their companionship always over rides that last day.
Damn, that must hurt so much... Kipling said it best:
The Power of the Dog
Rudyard Kipling
There is sorrow enough in the natural way From men and women to fill our day; And when we are certain of sorrow in store, Why do we always arrange for more? Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.
Buy a pup and your money will buy Love unflinching that cannot lie— Perfect passion and worship fed By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head. Nevertheless it is hardly fair To risk your heart for a dog to tear.
When the fourteen years which Nature permits Are closing in asthma, or tumor, or fits, And the vet’s unspoken prescription runs To lethal chambers or loaded guns, Then you will find—it’s your own affair— But . . . you’ve given your heart to a dog to tear.
When the body that lived at your single will, With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!). When the spirit that answered your every mood Is gone—wherever it goes—for good, You will discover how much you care, And will give your heart to a dog to tear.
We’ve sorrow enough in the natural way, When it comes to burying Christian clay. Our loves are not given, but only lent, At compound interest of cent per cent. Though it is not always the case, I believe, That the longer we’ve kept ’em, the more do we grieve. For, when debts are payable, right or wrong, A short-time loan is as bad as a long— So why in—Heaven (before we are there) Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear
Prayers and blessings for you and TQOTW, and a swift journey across that rainbow bridge for Wolfie. Love and relief from pain await on the other side. I've been in the place you are right now several times. It never gets easier. But eventually, the pain fades. The memories remain and the the love maintains. Blessings for you and your lady, scritches for that furry rascal. Ranger
I've been lucky to have vets that will come to my house when it's time to put a pet down. The last time, after the procedure was done and my wife and I were looking at our now gone boy, we both remarked on how relaxed and peaceful his face was. I think it's possible to not always notice the pain in a dogs face when it has gradually been getting worse. Seeing his peaceful face helped me know I had made the right decision.
This is incredibly sad. But part of life when you have a dog. Or rather, he has you. They make such a mark in our lives.
I know that day is coming for me. Our big guy is getting older and grayer. From time to time when he's playing hard, he starts favoring his left shoulder, as if the right one is bothering him. He's a shepherd mix, but he got all shepherd issues.
I was teaching faith formation and a kid asked if dogs went to heaven. I can't imagine why they wouldn't.
I'm only an occasional reader of your blog posts, but losing a faithful companion pet is always a sad event. Having to make the decision oneself is heartbreaking, even when we know it's for the best.
Remember when we happened across each other at the dog park that day? Thus began a deeper friendship with us, and the FADC meeting on Friday afternoons.
One of my fondest memories (and heart-rate shockers) was Woofers and Buddyboy playing at my house while we sipped a beverage or two. It got too quiet for some reason, so I turned around to see what kind of trouble was in progress. There they were... laying on the floor, with Buddy's head in Wolfgang's mouth! Just laying there like it was the most natural and relaxing way to be. I wish I had seen how they got that way.
When you and TQOTW were down there finding a new Castle and Woofers was here for a week, we had a blast! His reaction to y'all coming in the door was one of the most heartwarming things, absolutely priceless.
Oh Man, I am so sorry! Grieve as long as you need. We understand how it hurts, even if it is the right thing to do.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry for you, losing your friend...
ReplyDeleteBut sometimes we need to do these things, if only as a mercy to our beloved companions. It is hard, but the right thing to do.
My thoughts are with you both. I feel your pain and tears.
I like dogs more than most people.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are with you as you do the right thing that hurts so much.
Prayers for all of you.
ReplyDeleteWe all know THE pain and anguish but we can never know YOUR pain and anguish.
I'm so sorry. Texson
ReplyDeletePraying for strength for both of you to do what must be done. The hardest thing I've ever had to do in my life I've done twice now, and it looms ahead again for us. The best I can offer is Kipling's poem. I challenge any dog lover to read it aloud without choking. I can't.
ReplyDeleteThe Power Of The Dog
Rudyard Kipling
There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
And when we are certain of sorrow in store,
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.
Buy a pup and your money will buy
Love unflinching that cannot lie—
Perfect passion and worship fed
By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head.
Nevertheless it is hardly fair
To risk your heart for a dog to tear.
When the fourteen years which Nature permits
Are closing in asthma, or tumour, or fits,
And the vet’s unspoken prescription runs
To lethal chambers or loaded guns,
Then you will find—it’s your own affair—
But … you’ve given your heart to a dog to tear.
When the body that lived at your single will,
With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!).
When the spirit that answered your every mood
Is gone—wherever it goes—for good,
You will discover how much you care,
And will give your heart to a dog to tear.
We’ve sorrow enough in the natural way,
When it comes to burying Christian clay.
Our loves are not given, but only lent,
At compound interest of cent per cent.
Though it is not always the case, I believe,
That the longer we’ve kept ’em, the more do we grieve:
For, when debts are payable, right or wrong,
A short-time loan is as bad as a long—
So why in—Heaven (before we are there)
Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear?
At my age I've lost many dogs, you have my deepest sympathy
ReplyDeleteDeepest condolences.
ReplyDeleteSo very sorry for you and the Queen. It is time though. You're doing him a mercy.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about that! I know where you are because I'm in the same place right now. Our fully retarded, but every happy Aussie can't stand up by himself and doesn't know where he is most of the time. My wife's making "the appointment" this week...
ReplyDeleteI grieve with you...
I know how hard that was to write, and I'm so sorry that the day has come.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry for your loss. I will keep you and Wolfgang in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteThat's what we did with Liesl. Took her out for morning potty and... it was time.
ReplyDeleteSet the appointment up for the last of the day, spent all day just pampering and loving on her, and then took one of the most horrible trips we've ever taken.
Still miss her.
You and yours are in my thoughts. Grieve, weep, feel depressed, but try to be the people Wolfgang wants you to be, even after he's gone.
I’m sorry for your loss. Those who are not animal lovers generally do not understand the pet/human connection. When you lose a pet you have lost a family member. You are in my prayers!
ReplyDeleteI'm very sorry to hear this. But you are Wolfgang's best friend and he knows it, and he trusts you to do what's best for him. I grieve with you, but you'll be reunited with him in good health one day. By definition, Heaven won't be Heaven unless our dogs are there with us.
ReplyDeleteNo greater love than to do the kindness.
ReplyDeleteDon't wait too long before finding your new Wolfgang. He'd understand and approve from across the rainbow bridge.
Praying for your family's peace.
You've done all you can. Condolences and know that he will be waiting for you across the Rainbow Bridge.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry for your loss, every time I read about some one having to do this I shed a tear for the dogs I have lost. They are special and we are blessed to have them.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for you both. Praying for you; may you take some comfort in your memories, knowing he knew how much he was loved.
ReplyDeleteIt was a phrase that resonates with me from long ago. Go with God and the response, Abide with God.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear that you've reached this time. He knows how much you love him.
ReplyDeleteDude.
ReplyDeleteDouble whammy.
Ya hate having to do it but deep down it is the biggest act of love you can give.
May God hold your family in the palm of his hand and forbid any more tragedies.
had to put my buddy down two years ago, still not over it. prayers for you friend.
ReplyDeletePrayer for you, QotW, & Wolfgang. Sorry for your impending loss.
ReplyDeleteI know how this feels.
Our best…
The best dog eulogy ever written: https://nilesanimalhospital.com/files/2012/07/The-Last-Will-and-Testament.pdf
ReplyDeleteAll I can say is that I'm so very sorry for your loss.
ReplyDeleteToo many times. https://poets.org/poem/power-dog
ReplyDeleteAs George Carlin said....purchasing a pet is acquiring a small future tragedy. Yet we continue to do so knowing what we will eventually have to deal with.
ReplyDeletePets make life so much better that the pain at the end is worth it.
Condolences to you both. Be safe and God bless.
ReplyDeleteThey say that rain cleanses, but damn -- too much rain. Just too much rain.
ReplyDeleteBP, keep this in mind:
ReplyDeleteHe will be welcomed in doggie heaven, where he'll be able to run and play without pain.
Pain fades, memories are a lifetime. I wish I could make the hurt stop but it's what love costs. Words are not sufficient.
ReplyDeleteSorry for your loss, and best wishes for your future.
ReplyDeleteA second thought if I may. Things being what they are over here lately, I in hindsight have felt as if I'd lost quite a bit of my humanity. Your sharing Wolfgang's last days as a part of a loving family has made a difference here. Brought back a feeling of that humanity. And for that I thank you. Not part of an expected intent, I'm sure, but real nevertheless. You, The Lady, and Wolfgang have made a difference here.
ReplyDeleteBorepatch and QOTW, to say I feel so sad for you does not begin to cover this sad day. My prayers for you all.
ReplyDeleteSorry, buddy. That's rough
ReplyDeleteSorry for your loss BP - I remember all of the pets that I have help to transition - they are all difficult to do and to remember, but the joy of their companionship always over rides that last day.
ReplyDeleteDamn, that must hurt so much...
ReplyDeleteKipling said it best:
The Power of the Dog
Rudyard Kipling
There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
And when we are certain of sorrow in store,
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.
Buy a pup and your money will buy
Love unflinching that cannot lie—
Perfect passion and worship fed
By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head.
Nevertheless it is hardly fair
To risk your heart for a dog to tear.
When the fourteen years which Nature permits
Are closing in asthma, or tumor, or fits,
And the vet’s unspoken prescription runs
To lethal chambers or loaded guns,
Then you will find—it’s your own affair—
But . . . you’ve given your heart to a dog to tear.
When the body that lived at your single will,
With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!).
When the spirit that answered your every mood
Is gone—wherever it goes—for good,
You will discover how much you care,
And will give your heart to a dog to tear.
We’ve sorrow enough in the natural way,
When it comes to burying Christian clay.
Our loves are not given, but only lent,
At compound interest of cent per cent.
Though it is not always the case, I believe,
That the longer we’ve kept ’em, the more do we grieve.
For, when debts are payable, right or wrong,
A short-time loan is as bad as a long—
So why in—Heaven (before we are there)
Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear
Prayers and blessings for you and TQOTW, and a swift journey across that rainbow bridge for Wolfie. Love and relief from pain await on the other side.
ReplyDeleteI've been in the place you are right now several times. It never gets easier. But eventually, the pain fades. The memories remain and the the love maintains.
Blessings for you and your lady, scritches for that furry rascal.
Ranger
I've been lucky to have vets that will come to my house when it's time to put a pet down. The last time, after the procedure was done and my wife and I were looking at our now gone boy, we both remarked on how relaxed and peaceful his face was. I think it's possible to not always notice the pain in a dogs face when it has gradually been getting worse. Seeing his peaceful face helped me know I had made the right decision.
ReplyDeleteCondolences. It's always hard to lose a furry family member.
ReplyDeleteThe only cure is to grieve and then find another four-legged riot who needs your love.
Forty-seven years since we lost our first one, and I still miss every single one of them. The love is worth the pain.
ReplyDeleteBP,
ReplyDeleteReally sorry to hear that. You and yours are in our prayers.
This is incredibly sad. But part of life when you have a dog. Or rather, he has you. They make such a mark in our lives.
ReplyDeleteI know that day is coming for me. Our big guy is getting older and grayer. From time to time when he's playing hard, he starts favoring his left shoulder, as if the right one is bothering him. He's a shepherd mix, but he got all shepherd issues.
I was teaching faith formation and a kid asked if dogs went to heaven. I can't imagine why they wouldn't.
He'll be there waiting for you.
I'm sorry about Wolfgang. My prayers for you and him.
ReplyDeleteI'm only an occasional reader of your blog posts, but losing a faithful companion pet is always a sad event. Having to make the decision oneself is heartbreaking, even when we know it's for the best.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry for your loss. May you be given the grace of consolation and comfort.
ReplyDeleteWell he would have had one smashing good dog life BP. He will be fine in Dawg Valhalla… and you will too. Take your time.
ReplyDeleteWe’ll catch up with ya further down the trail.
Heartbreak like no other. I am so sorry for your loss
ReplyDeleteRemember when we happened across each other at the dog park that day? Thus began a deeper friendship with us, and the FADC meeting on Friday afternoons.
ReplyDeleteOne of my fondest memories (and heart-rate shockers) was Woofers and Buddyboy playing at my house while we sipped a beverage or two. It got too quiet for some reason, so I turned around to see what kind of trouble was in progress. There they were... laying on the floor, with Buddy's head in Wolfgang's mouth! Just laying there like it was the most natural and relaxing way to be. I wish I had seen how they got that way.
When you and TQOTW were down there finding a new Castle and Woofers was here for a week, we had a blast! His reaction to y'all coming in the door was one of the most heartwarming things, absolutely priceless.
See you in Heaven, Woofers.