Probably letting my dog Rex find peace today.

[Nikomania]

I'm completely heartbroken that this day has come. Rex, my 11 year old German Shepherd, is failing. Sixteen months ago his back end suddenly became weak. He was able to get himself around with partial use of his back legs pretty well, but I did get him a wheelchair so that he could continue to enjoy walks.

Five months ago, Rex suddenly began to walk again! His gait improved to the point where he was able to walk 70% of the time. Rex is a strong, proud boy that never let his new normal get in his way of enjoying life.

Two weeks ago, Rex began to lose strength in his hind quarters again. On top of that, he became continent with both urine and stool.

Last night I could hear him panting and moving around on his bed. When I got up this morning, he had vomited and was lying in a puddle of urine, even though I use wraps. Upon close exam of the urine, I can see that there's blood, so the wraps probably contributed to his getting a UTI.

I have an appointment at 4:15 today to address the UTI, but I may also be making the difficult decision to allow him to have peace. His legs won't recover again. That I'm pretty certain of. I can treat the UTI and N&V, but now it's a quality of life issue.

Please keep Rex in your thoughts and prayers. This amazing dog has been the closest to perfection in an animal that I've ever seen. So good. So obedient. So everything.

My heart is breaking. I am dreading this car ride. Rex always loves his rides, so at least he'll be happy...

 

[cassiesdad]

The ultimate act of love is to release a companion of their pain...it is also the hardest thing to do.

Thoughts and prayers going out to you, your family, and Rex...

 

[lotus15]

I'm so sorry. I'm keeping you and Rex both in my thoughts. I hope he finds peace and no more pain.

 

[sunnysmom]

I'm so sorry. A woman I work with went through something very similar with her German Shepard- the loss of use of legs, etc. It's very heart breaking. I agree with Cassiesdad, letting a pet go when the time comes is the ultimate act of love. Sending prayers to you and Rex.

 

[Lady Jane]

It is making tears on my face reading your post. Goodbye Rex and we know there will be no pain any more. Your mamma took care of that.

 

[Love My Zons]

It is the worst part of us owning these dogs, cats and other pets. But it is our ultimate sacrifice to allow for them a peaceful passing while they still maintain the dignity they deserve. I am very sorry for this hard decision you are making. I have been there before and it never gets easier!

Hugs to you and may your GSD run forever pain free.

 

[Nikomania]

My heart.

 

[faislaq]

He's so handsome! That fur is incredible and with such a sweet face to boot!

My heart is breaking. I am dreading this car ride. Rex always loves his rides, so at least he'll be happy...

Enjoy your ride, Rex. Either way at least he'll be happy. What a good boy.

 

[Aubrey]

This is the hardest thing about being owned by our companions

Giving him the gift of peace truly is altruistic. I wish you strength in your decision and him peace

 

[Tiel Feathers]

I’m so very sorry Rex has taken a turn for the worst. You will be in my thoughts and prayers today as you go to the vets. It’s never easy to let our dear friends go.

 

[JLcribber]

These are the times that test our metal. I wish you strength and courage to do this thing you must do. Gods speed Rex.


FAITH.

This morning I had a strange request,
I did not understand.
An invitation to fly free
Throughout the Heavenly land.
But I had found my Heaven!
I had Heaven here on earth.
I had a home that gave me warmth,
That gave me love, and true self worth.
But we all know that one day comes
A time when all move on.
A time when we must move ahead
And trust what lies beyond.
So I decided not to fear,
I would trust that guiding light.
I went with the faith you gave me
Over to the other side.
I flew free with you within my heart
Towards the other shore.
The love you gave will stay with me,
You will be with me, forever more.
I have with you eternal bond,
Through faith, through love so sweet.
Have faith in me, as I did you,
Believe! Believe! Again we’ll meet.
So do not cry beloved friend,
I am joyful, I am free.
The bond we hold between us
Is one we hold, Eternally.

 

[tka]

I'm so sorry. You're making a good, kind decision that's in his best interests, and you're prioritising his quality of life ahead of your feelings. I wish you strength in making that decision and comfort in your grief.

 

[Wasabisaurus]

I am very sorry he is so ill. My dad had to release his male shepard, Harley, years ago to cross the bridge and wait for dad. Dad died last year and their urns are together.

It’s so hard to make the decision. I’ve had to do it too.
Bless you both.

 

[Lwalker]

My thoughts are with you and Rex

 

[fluffypoptarts]

 

[Hjarta5]

Even though it's difficult and not a decision you want to make, you are helping him by stopping the pain of his body failing him if theres a determination tomorrow that his quality of life will only get worse. Lots of love to you, Rex, and your family -- and thank you for being by Rex's side

 

[Nikomania]

He's passed. My heart is broken, but I know it was the best decision under the circumstances. Thank you, all for your love and support. @JLcribber, your poem was strengthening. I read it right before the drive over to the vet's office.

Rex absolutely loved his car ride. The light was in his eyes, and he was smiling. I was so grateful for my 2 sons who sat with me while I held my baby as he passed. I miss him already, but know he's now at peace.

 

[expressmailtome]

I am so very sorry.

 

[JLcribber]

He's passed. My heart is broken, but I know it was the best decision under the circumstances. Thank you, all for your love and support. @JLcribber, your poem was strengthening. I read it right before the drive over to the vet's office.

Rex absolutely loved his car ride. The light was in his eyes, and he was smiling. I was so grateful for my 2 sons who sat with me while I held my baby as he passed. I miss him already, but know he's now at peace.

Somebody sent me that one of the days I had to make that same trip. It helped me a lot.

 

[WendyN]