Death and Dignity - Page 3

I've stood on that threshold thousands of times, both as a dog owner and as a vet tech, and it never gets any easier...but it's the promise we make when we take a dog into our lives: to always do what's in the best interest of the dog, to do everything possible to ensure that they are happy, healthy, safe and comfortable, and to help them take their leave when there is no longer any possible way to keep them happy, healthy, safe and comfortable. I must speak in defense of those who cannot stay by their dog's side when that time comes, however---for some people, it is simply too overwhelming to bear, and in truth it does the dog no benefit if a hysterical owner is sobbing uncontrollably...it only serves to make the dog upset, because they're reading out the owner's distress and become worried. I've stayed with many a dog whose owner couldn't, and I can assure you that a good vet and a good tech will comfort and calm the dog so it is able to make a peaceful departure. And once they've passed, the vet and the tech will cry right along with the owner...but only after it will no longer have the potential to worry the dog.

Ah, rest now Norris.. go ahead.. see, there's Chelsea (aka Miss Bossy),Kayla, Montana, Tasha and Cruz and even Jasper the little hairball kitty.. all waiting to welcome you and man, they say it's a really fun place. See you someday..

Have to agree with Hexe, here. As a long time vet tech myself, sometimes if the owner really is losing it, it's best to let calmer hands take over. The owners' upset is so communicated to the dog that it may actually be easier on them to have someone with their emotions under control petting and stroking and telling them it's OK and what a good dog they are. So sorry for the loss of Norris. It's the sad reality that all dog owners have to face one day. Our fur-kids lives are just too short. I wouldn't trade all those years of love and fun to escape it, though.

One of our clients was so distressed about the euthanasia of her elderly Dalmatian that she fainted and urinated on the floor of the reception room. Most of our clients were not able to stay with their beloved pets and I'm not so sure I'll make it myself one more time although I hope to muster up the courage when that dreadful time comes.

I have a 17 year old Wolf hybrid. I know she's not a pedigree, but she's an awesome animal. I give her vitamins, glucosamine, etc... She has been the best dog ever. Three months ago she hurt her hip and has been sliding downhill. Some days better than others. I know she's preparing to die. She's made a bed behind some bushes and won't come out. She won't make a sound either. Posse' was an abused dog when I met her old family. By order of the police and vet she was released to me when she almost 10 and has lived a very good life since then. Is there anything I can give her or do to let her go without prolonging it? I know she's ready, can't say the same for myself however. I have dreams of her slipping away, so I know it's her time. I have rescued five dogs in the last 10 years and have seen all of them go, but Posse' always stays. Our vet doesn't make house calls and I really want her to die in the spot she's chosen, it's hers. Posse will be our fourth dog to die this year and it's not getting any easier. She is also the oldest. Just this year we've let go of our 12 year old Shepherd, my 14 year old Pomeranian, and the baby of the bunch, Bianca, an 8 week old pomeranian puppy we had who just couldnt make it. It's been a heartbreaking year for our pets. My husband thinks I'm nuts about these animals, and rightfully I guess I am. I have rescued a 1 year old Pomeranian who has a bad leg due to a an older couple who had him, he was involved in a car accident. A pin put in his leg to correct the fracture and they never took him back to have it removed, now he has a Peg leg of sorts. If you could suggest anything to make Posse's transition to the other side I would be eternally grateful. She has been a legend and a legend deserves to die with her head held high and proud. She's down to about 100 pounds, from her fighting weight of 150. I can't move her and she won't let my husband near her now. Anything would help. Thank you.