More Sad News

[Python]

We had to have our 12 year old German Shepherd put to sleep this morning

When I came home yesterday afternoon, she usually greets me, tail wagging. Yesterday she sat, didn't even bark when I opened the door and when she tried to stand up, her back legs gave way and she sat back down again.

She ate her dinner OK but when we went upstairs to bed, she was like a little old lady going up the steps. Her bed is on the opposite side of our bed and she has to jump onto our bed to get to her bed (we have a small bedroom and the air-cooler is in the way). She tried to jump up on the bed and couldn't. My husband had to help her up and she yelped - obviously in pain so he took her to the vet. The vet could feel a tumour in her bowel about the size of a grapefruit, so after discussing possible treatment with the vet, in view of her advanced years my husband took the decision to put her to sleep. We had already discussed the possibility last night and I know we took the right decision. Doesn't make it any easier though - we've lost a much loved member of our family. The house feels so empty without her. Even the cats are very subdued

We love every one of our fur and scales family and it hurts so much when something like this happens

[luv'nAustin]

Python, I'm so sorry for your loss.

[short cut sally]

((((((((hugs))))))) to you Python..sorry for your loss

[karen]

I'm so sorry, Python

[Pedal Wench]

so sorry

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

So sad....I'm so sorry!
But take comfort in the fact that she had a long well loved life.

[Tuckervill]

I'm sorry, Python.

Karen

[Pax]

I'm so very sorry for your loss Python, they truly own our hearts don't they?

[Running Mommy]

So sorry python! Another pup is at the rainbow bridge now though. I'm sure all of our pups were there to meet and welcome her into the fold..

[han-grrl]

So many hugs to you. Having lost my little kitty, i understand the loss of a pet, who is more like family. there are so many wonderful sisters here in TE who understand, so type and write, the sisters of TE understand and we are here with you.

[smilingcat]

Dear Python,

I'm sorry to hear the sad news. It never is easy.

my deepest sympathy,
Shawn

[Velobambina]

I'm so sorry about your sweet puppy who, no doubt, was, is, and always will be your beloved dog.

[bikerchick68]

Python... I'm so sad for you. I went thru this very same thing last Dec 22. I came home and my old man, Winston, could no longer stand. He had a spinal cord issue and I knew his time here with me was done. I too believe that what you did was the greatest act of love and kindness you can give to a beloved fur friend... doing what's best for them, not what's best for you. I want to share this poem. It's one that brought me much comfort and reassurance. Hugs.

FROM FRIEND TO FRIEND

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.

But really, love is knowing
When your best friend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.

So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.

The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.

That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner 'til the end.

Please, understand just what this gift,
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.

You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.

So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.

Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.

And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.

I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young dog once again.

In Memory of Asta, Feb. 1997
(c) Karen Clouston
<>

[Python]

That poem is so beautiful.

Thank you for sharing it with us.

[rij73]

I wept reading that poem... I've never gotten over the loss of my childhood dog. My current dog is a rescue from a neglect situation, and I adore him madly. Python, the story of Sam made me so sad... Just like my Hudson, I can't fathom how some people can be so cruel to a creature with such benevolent and trusting eyes.