My Diamond dog...

[Lucys_Diamond]

Our Aussie, Diamond, was in pretty bad shape. She hurt from athritus in her spine, and eventually lost all controll of her bowl movements. I still feel to this day that she wasn't ready. When the vet came in, she was wagging her little nub and was excited to see him. This was almost a year ago, and I always cry like it happened yesterday. I miss her so much... We had her for 13 years. She was a great dog, and I wish she never left. I can't get rid of the picture of her laying on the floor in the vet room... I wish I didn't go for that reason. I really hate it, and I never want to do it again(even though its hard not to having 2 dogs in my house, one 15 years old). Can anyone give me some advice on how to get over this? I really hate it...

[macy_moo]

I lost the dog I grew up with, Lotto, 6 months ago so I can understand completely. He was 13 and well and truly ready to go. I still think about him every day.

I guess I cant give any advice on how to get over things like this? But just try and remember how Diamond was on her better days. I think you did the right thing, dogs can look happy even in the worst of times & I do think its better to let them go sooner rather than later. 13 is a great age to live to, and Im sure you gave her a great life

[princelover]

While one can never get over losing a beloved pet, it is possible to make it a little easier by changing your thinking. I think of the process of putting them to sleep as it being the last and greatest gift that you can give your dog. It is an act of deep love not to want to see them suffer any longer or be in pain.

I went with my beloved Patrick, after a 17 year relationship and had to make that decision. While it was very difficult, I would make the same decision in a heartbeat. I consider making that decision to be as much a part of caring for them as providing food and water and every other provision you give them during their life span. That is just the "last" act of love that you are able to provide.