straightUp Loc: California

Aw.. Try to keep in mind your dog doesn't know. So give him happy love not sad good-byes and hold him to the end. I had to do this with my dog after 12 years. I wish they could live longer.

working class stiff Loc: N. Carolina

I know your pain, having buried several long time pets.

We have found a service that comes to one's home and puts the pets to sleep in that safe and comfortable environment. Easier on the pet, though it cannot stop our tears.

I am sorry for you. Take care.

CarryOn

EmilyD, I am so sorry, and my prayers are with you today.

I recently lost a 15-year-old lab, and I had 7 others before her. It is always a difficult time. It looks like you've gotten some wonderful advice here from the fine folks at OPP and there isn't much I can add. Our pets become such a huge part of our lives, and sometimes we don't even realize how much until they're gone because they have simply been there beside us every day, loving us and happy just to be with us wherever we are. And suddenly they're not. The best advice I can give you is to know that, as much as you miss him and grieve his passing, it will get better. You will eventually be able to think about your little dog without such overwhelming sadness, and remembering the cute and funny things that he did will bring a smile instead of tears.

As far as getting another dog, I think that is more of an individual preference as to how soon. This last time, I couldn't think about replacing her, and when I went to the shelter I burst into tears and had to leave. So I gave it some time. But it all worked out. I still miss her .. I miss all of them ... but am thankful for each and every one of them and happy to have had the experience of sharing a part of my life with them. I hope the same for you.

Again, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

EmilyD

Thank you everyone. I just got back, and it was very hard, but I held him until the end and petted him and talked normally to him until his eyes closed. They gave him a sedative first so he just drifted off to sleep. I didn't realize how hard this was going to be. I'm very sad, but reading all of your words and kind thoughts has helped me a lot.

Thank you all for your thoughtfulness, prayers and kindness.

Emily

Rose42

Just be there with him when its time. Thats the best thing you can do for him.

So sorry to hear you’re losing him. Its never easy. They are with us for such a short time.

Editted to add - I’m glad you were with him. We owe them that.

no propaganda please Loc: moon orbiting the third rock from the sun

It never gets any easier. We have 5 dogs now, have always had at least 3 but that doesn't make the decision any easier. They are so much a part of our lives, and I cannot imagine life without dogs, so I can relate to your feelings. Many people ask themselves if the pain of the loss is so overwhelming that maybe they should not consider getting another dog, but for me, life without dogs is not a complete one.

EmilyD

Thanks. Right now we're thinking "we could never replace Oscar" but I love dogs so much that I think that may change down the road a little. It's very quiet without him. I miss a million things about him already.

EmilyD

Thanks. Yes we were there right to the end. No more hurting for the little guy.
The doctor and nurse were very caring and gentle. It was hard coming home...

Rose42

Its hard but when one door closes another one opens. There’s another good dog out there for you.

jSmitty45 Loc: Fl born, lived in Texas 30 yrs, now Louisiana

No easy way to let them go, been there, done that. Heartbreaking, prayers for peace, and comfort.
Best thing I have found is to get another one quickly, helps.

CarryOn

You wouldn't be "replacing" Oscar, Emily. A new little dog would simply add to the joy that Oscar brought you. When you're ready. You'll know.

EmilyD

Thank you....I think you're right.

no propaganda please Loc: moon orbiting the third rock from the sun

No, you cannot replace Oscar but that doesn't mean that there is not a place in your heart that fits well with another dog. Your heart can always enlarge to make a place for a new dog. But that doesn't mean that you need to get a new dognow, you will know when it is time to start looking for just the right dog, or when the dog arrives that is looking for just the right family and that family is YOURS.

archie bunker Loc: Texas

You're exactly right NPP. You just know when the right one finds you.

I still miss my Gus, and all others we've lost, but I love my Ruger every bit as much.

As painful as it is that they have such short lives, I just can't imagine life without a dog.
They are a gift from God.

no propaganda please Loc: moon orbiting the third rock from the sun

You are absolutely right, our dogs are a gift from God, a little bit of HIS LOVE in the form of a special dog or two, or in our case right now a special five pack, each providing a different insight into God's special grace and His love for al HIS children.