Saying goodbye to a friend...

[Steve1968LS2]

Some of you might remember my thread about our sick whippet Athena. She’s been a member of our family for the last 10 years and while it may sound cliché she’s best damn dog I’ve ever been around. When I worked at home she was with me all day long and would even get to go on sales calls with me. She always seemed extra smart and aware of things, much more so than our other dogs. She was special. Sure, she would steal food off the counter and get in trouble, but then again.. don't we all?

But cancer came and our pooch, who was once lightning fast and full of life is fading away. She still wags her tail when she sees us, but she mostly rests. Her back leg is failing her and it drags when she walks. Starting yesterday she will hardly eat.

The radiation and chemo treatments did give her a month of feeling pretty darn good. We went to the park, played in the backyard, fed Athena her favorite “human food” and let her get to know our new puppy. It was nice and well worth every dollar, but the cold reality of life is looming.

How do you decide when to end the life of a family member?

I mean, seriously… Do you say “Friday will be your last day, this will be your last morning, your last ray of sunshine and here’s your last meal..” ?

Every day we wonder if she will eat, if she will perk up or if she will slip farther away. You don’t want to put her down too soon, but you don’t want to have her suffer needlessly because you’re too afraid to do the right thing. You wake up each morning and expect the dog you knew to jump up and greet you, but she lays in bed and then you remember and sadness washes over you. Some would say “It’s just a dog” and while I know this isn’t the same as a human it doesn’t make it any easier at all. It’s a life that looks at you like you’re a god, like you can do no wrong. A family member that sees you as their protector, their provider.

But she’s always been there for us, like most dogs she never complained when we came home late or when she wasn’t feeling well. That’s more of a human trait. She was always loyal and giving. She is my friend and I will miss her so much, but I am a better human for having had her around.

If she doesn’t eat in the next 24 hours we will not let her suffer. But, even if she does eat the time to let her sleep will come soon, far too soon. We’ve talked to our vet who has offered to come to our house to put her down. She will lie in her favorite bed and get a small shot that will relax her and put her to sleep over the course of 5 minutes. Then she will get the other shot stopping her heart and ending her discomfort. The hard part will be for us to be strong and not show sadness until she’s gone. Dogs are perceptive and there will be time for grief afterwards. The vet will transport Athena to a pet cemetery where she will get a private cremation. Her ashes will be returned to us, and they will even do a paw print in a casting for us. Maybe we will spread them at her favorite park or get an urn. It’s not terribly important since our bodies are just vessels for what we are and what she will be at that point is memory that we will never forget.

It’s been tough and it helps to type this out since talking about it generally causes me to get all wet eyed. I want to thank all of you that posted in the other thread; it means a lot. Thanks.

Athena, best damn dog around:

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[perry mitchell]

I can't add to that. I have been there Steve and I feel for you.

[newbaa]

That's really sad to hear, but i know how you feel. We have had to put down my cat and our dog.
My cat, Toodles, was acting pretty normal until a few days before we had to put her down, but one day she just wasn't breathing well at all, so we took her in to the vet. After the vet listened to her (and maybe x-rays - i don't remember) she told us that she had fluid build-up in her lungs. It could be removed, but it would just come back again and again... It was a spur of the moment decision but I decided that I didn't want to prolong her suffering or make her have to go through that same situation multiple times. So I held her in my arms as the vet gave her an injection.
That day really sucked, but I believe i acted in her best interests.
Our dog Taffy was a Saint Bernard/Great White Pyrenees mix and we knew she was getting old (11 or 12 i think) and she was slowing down, but one day we had a horrible windstorm with TONS of dust blowing around when we realized that she couldn't breathe and that her tongue was turning purple. Again, we took her in to the vet and had her put to sleep.

Toodles:
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Taffy:
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[Taylor1969]

My dog holds a very special place in my heart. Humans definitely get more than they give to their dogs. I know exactly how you feel - we had to put down a dog a couple of years ago because of cancer and I still tear up when I think of him. Just know that Athena has loved every minute of her life and if it is her time, she knows - dogs are much stronger than us when it comes to that.

You may want to read this book: http://www.amazon.com/Rescuing-Sprite-Lovers-Story-Anguish/dp/1416559132/ref=pd_bbs_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1210295813&sr=8-2
Mark Levin wrote it after losing his dog

[Bill Howell]

I know this is tough Steve, been there/done that. Actually that is why we don't have animals now, the pain is tough when you have to say goodbye. However, she is really suffering now and prolonging it is not good for anyone or her. Besides, you would hate for your wife to have to deal with this alone next week while you are gone. I strongly suggest you spend the evening with her tonight and then make the call in the morning. No reason for the poor thing to suffer any more. God's speed Athena!

[ProdigyCustoms]

I posted on the other board, was not sure which you are reading

Steve, I had to do it a couple years ago with a 14 year old Chow. One of the hardest things I ever had to do. But she was a mess, blind, skin problems, bleeding sores from chewing her self. Problem with her was she wanted to live, and was eating until her last day. She had a ribeye steak the night before we took "the ride". Your stronger then me if you can watch all this, I had to hand her off to the vet, just could not handle it.

Only thing I can tell you is once it was over the pain was gone for her and the family. A different pain was there but it went away pretty soon. Then I hear this, type this, and tear up a bit!

I am really sorry man. You will know when it is time.

[bwhinnen]

Steve this is heartbreaking to say the least. I really admire your strength in all this, and cannot imagine how I would make the same decision about one of our dogs, specially the 'old man' as we call him who is 8 this year and a little rascal!

My deepest support to you and your family and Athena, you will know the right time and know it is the right thing to do.

Here's to Athena, and all other best friends we've had or will have!

[Larry Callahan]

Steven, our hearts goes out to you and your wife. Susan and I lost a couple of cats recently and it was very tough. We don't have kids but they really were Susan's babies.

It is a difficult decision but you will know when it's time.

[deuce]

steve it totally sucks . my rotti has become diabettic and now blind at first she had siezures and we didnt know what was wrong and she almost died ..but now she is medicated and doing well at 8 years old . but ill tell you i went threw a few months of hell with this , my heart goes out to your family . dogs are great , and im so sorry to hear about your pup ...

[dropit69]

wow that sucks to here Steve..my thoughts go out to you and your wife ..ive had my American Eskimo for 11 years now and hope i have lots of time left with her..

[rickk]

steve hope all is well. thanks for sharing with us.
rick k

[CarlC]

Steve, as much as we all hope that a miracle is going to happen, or that we may be able to squeeze in a few more good days, at some point in time we have to say enough. I too had a very similar situation with my first dog, and stayed with him during both shots. I've been with very close family members at the end, and the dog was the hardest one because of thier dependance, unconditional love, and the decision. After many years I'm glad I did not wait longer and regret making him suffer more for my own benefit.

That is very generous and dignified way to say goodbye to a family member.

[mburrow]

Steve, sorry to hear about this story. As some have said, been there,done that. It is a sad time. My first wife and I had beagles, Sam and Snoopy. They lived to be 15 and 16. We had no children. You will know when it is time. I carried Sam to the vets office at 3:30 am and he gave me a few minutes alone and all I can say is it was a special time and will be remembered always. Our prayers are with you for peace in the family as you move forward. Love ya even though I haven't met ya! mburrow

[buickfunnycar.com]

I feel for you Steve and like others have said...been there/done that...and will probably go through it many more times in my lifetime.
The sad part is they just don't live as long as we do...but they bring you so much love and affection I just could not be without my pets even though I know the day is coming for each of them.

My heart goes out to you but know full well that you did the right thing.They cannot tell us how they feel and just knowing they might be in pain wouldn't be fair to Athena.

You'll know when the time is right to find a replacement...but you'll never forget her.

Best of luck to you...

[Steve1968LS2]

We tried feeding her tonight, she ate a tiny bit but she's just not well. Her tail barely wags and she's limping. Called the vet and she is coming tomorrow at 7:20pm... :(

My wife is a wreck and we are both crying already. Jennifer kept wanting to put it off a day, but we need to do what's best for Athena.

I will say this is the hardest thing I've ever had to do. Ever...

From a couple of years ago when she was in her prime.. damn she was fast...

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[MrQuick]

Thats tough Steve, condolences to you and the wife. Just try to remember the happy times you guys spent together.


I don't know what I would do if my babies where in the same situation. Don't want to think about it.

[TonyHuntimer]

Sorry to hear that Steve. That's never easy.

I almost had to put my buddy down a couple of years ago. I'm not looking forward to the day when it comes back in the future. We don't have kids, so he is like one of our kids.

Take care,
Tony~

[Steve1968LS2]

Thats tough Steve, condolences to you and the wife. Just try to remember the happy times you guys spent together.


I don't know what I would do if my babies where in the same situation. Don't want to think about it.

Cute pups Tony.. Like I said.. dogs give far more than they end up costing emotionally.

[eville]

My thoughts and condolences go out to you, your wife and your dogs Steve. It will take time to heal from this loss.

[TonyL]

My heart goes out to you Steve. There's no harder thing than making that decision. I've had the misfortune myself. It's a pain that never quite goes away, I'm sad to say.

This is Ramo giving me the "you expect me to pee WHERE?" look. He'd never seen snow before.

Cancer took him from us a little over two years ago.
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[neki67]

Know the feeling all to well, Steve. Had to make a similar decision 'bout 3-1/2 years ago. It's a tough decision but at least you can take some comfort in not having to let her go through (much) more pain. I too let her go to sleep at home and that's much better than doing it at the vet's.

All the best to you and your family.

23606

[Rick Dorion]

Steve, my heart goes out to you and your wife. We had to go through this with two dogs this year. Human nature is to wait but it's best to honor their love and commitment sooner rather than later and end any suffering. I wish you the very best!

[TA219]

aaawww damn, I am over here crying just reading what you have to say and thinking how it would apply in my own life. We have 3 puppies that we adopted at various times and I love every one of them and all of their quirks... i am truely sorry that you guys are having to go through all of this, and i dread the day that we will have to face the same harsh reality.

[Samckitt]

A year ago I had to put down a black Lab "Harley". It was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. He had a tumor in his abdomen, the vet gave me some meds to give him to try to shrink the tumor, but it didn't help. He got to the point he wouldn't eat, & could barely get up to walk. I put off having him put to sleep as long as I could, I think deep down I wanted him to pass on on his own without my having to make the decision that "X" day was the day. But he got to where he was suffering too much & I finally called the vet to make the appt. He was at the point he couldn't walk at all. So it was tough carrying that big of a dog to the truck to take to the vet.

I'll admit it, I cried like a little kid. It was very hard thing to do. It still brings tears to my eyes.

Steve, I feel your pain. It is very hard to loose a "friend" like that.

[Steve1968LS2]

Last night was so hard. We laid with her, petted her and tried to comfort her, but she knows she is done.

We can't get her to eat, even ice cream. I'm going to give her some pain meds to relax her through the day and tonight she can be released from her discomfort.

I try to be tough, but I feel constantly on the verge of balling like a baby. I think it shows that humanity has hope when we can care so much for another, non human, creature.

It's going to be a long hard day, but we need to be selfless and take care of Athena, after all... dogs are the very definition of "selfless".

Thanks again for all your kind words, they mean so much. My wife can't read this thread right now, but in a few days she will and I'm sure she will find comfort in it.

[Bow Tie 67]

I'll keep you all in my prayers.

[Steve1968LS2]

A... He was at the point he couldn't walk at all. So it was tough carrying that big of a dog to the truck to take to the vet.

I'll admit it, I cried like a little kid. It was very hard thing to do. It still brings tears to my eyes.


That's why we worked it out for her vet to come here to the house. She knows her and it will be less threatening than taking Athena to the vet where she will have to wait in a cold room.

She will pass on her favorite bed, will the TV on just like it's another night at home. Hell, it's how I would want to go.

It's not any easier since this is Mothers day weekend and our dogs are like our kids to an extent. Plus Jennifers step-mom has been diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer and all the kids are going there for what amounts to a goodbye. It's been such a tough month, but because of family and friends, (yes, that includes you guys) it's a bit easier.

[andrewb70]

.....

I try to be tough, but I feel constantly on the verge of balling like a baby. ....

I am doing just that as I read this thread. You and Jennifer are good people for doing it this way. Keep us updated...

Andrew

[1968CamaroSS_Sam]

Steve,
I am sorry for your loss. These pets become one of our own children. That is great to hear that you treated her with a lot of love and respect also.
Sam

[lowboy]

Been going through the same thing w/13 year old Dalmation. Everytime I think her time is coming to an end, she seems to pull out of it. Just last thursday she couldn't even get up, we had to bring water and food to her and I had to pick her up and take her outside to go poddy. I thought for sure I would have to take her to vet on Saturday and put her too sleep. Over the next few days I watched her closely and she showed signs of improvement and today she is able to get up and move around w/out my help. She definately is having hip problems and has aged rapidly in the last six months, but, she is somewhat mobile, shes eating, and she still wags her tail. Thus, I stilll have some time left w/her. Not looking forward to making that final decision, but, I know it is coming soon. I know I gave her the most comfortable life I could, as you have, and I'm hoping that will make it a little easier when I finally have to put her down.

[comp-spec]

I am doing just that as I read this thread. You and Jennifer are good people for doing it this way. Keep us updated...

Andrew
Sorry to hear Steve......
I have two German shepherd bothers that are getting old....Im not looking forward to that day.
Boy do you get attached to them ...Mans best friend

[Tony_SS]

sorry to read this Steve... I had to put my 12yr old Rott down and I lost myself for a long while. Dogs are loyal, compassionate, loving animals and there's no worse pain then having to make that decision. :( Take time to grieve and the time will heal.

[69Pony]

Steve,
I too pass on my condolences. As all have stated we have been there and done that though it does not make it any easier. But as all have said your pup had a great life and that is due to the fact that you and yours loved her so.

I know where Frank is coming from when he said he had to pass off his to the vet. I did that with my favorite cat years ago and still regret it. In retrospect I felt like I abandoned her in her hour of need and for that I still 'hate" myself. So if you can, be there for her and know you are doing the right thing for her. She knows....

[6'9"Witha69]

Damn, It is hard to think about. I had to put down a couple cats. One was born 3 weeks before me and was put down within a week of my 18th Birthday. That cat slept on my bed almost every night growing up. I know it's hard and good for you to do the right thing.

[buickfunnycar.com]

our pets are our kids Steve so all of us animal owners know the pain you're going through..but despite that,the love they give...unconditionally...far outweighs the pain when that time comes.

tough decision I know but one you'll have to make...good luck my friend.

[vp23271]

Steve, hang in their. I can only imagine how tough of a decision it is. Athena is lucky to have an owner who cares. The fact that you are doing it the way you are, says a lot. I hope in time you and your wife can remember the good times she has brought to your family.

[mpozzi]

Oh Steve,

I'm so sorry to hear of this and please pass my condolences along to Jennifer as well. By the time I finish my part of this thread I'll know if keyboards work when soaked with tears.

My cat, Indoor (I know it's a weird name), was 21 years old when that time came. This cat was more than just a part of my life as she'd been with me through thick and thin, my first marriage and subsequent divorce, several moves, some okay relationships and others not that okay, and finally with Dave who wasn't a huge cat fan ... especially when the cat lived indoors with us. Each year Indoor and I got older. And with each passing year, I knew she was slowing down. Near the end, she was ailing, her liver and kidneys shutting down, lost a lot of weight (this was a cat that weighed 20 lbs in her prime), and finally stopped eating. I made the call ...

Dave, trying to be supportive, offered to come with me for the 4pm appointment. He was late getting home so I left for the ten+ mile trip to the vet without him.

Did I mention my car was almost always running on gas fumes?? And that Pontiac Grand-Am Quad-4's get no caloric sustenance from fumes? And said fumes also won't get you far, much less ten+ miles. I ran out of gas at the first major stoplight entering Salinas ...

I'm in tears and just can't take anymore. My car's engine is no-go despite repeated attempts to start. Several guys get out of a truck and push me across the intersection where a cop waits to hopefully help me out. My poor cat is taking this all in and silent in the passenger seat. I can see the vet's office from where I'm now parked and cry even harder.

Waiting, the officer turns his lights on and gets out of the cruiser. He approaches my car and is met with a ghastly sight of a hysterical female looking like a cross between Tammy Faye and Gene Simmons in full KISS makeup. Like any normal guy, he recoils ... his eyes wide and horrified, and then after taking another look to make sure this apparition from Hell is what he saw, asks if he can help. Luckily he doesn't reach for his gun. I'm crying; between deep gulps of air, I try to tell him about my cat but can't get the words out which ends up sounding something Klingon-like. Dave arrives after coming home and seeing my car gone. He gets a gallon of fuel and empties it in the Grand-Am. We make it to the vet ...

Fast forward ten years to Tootsie, our 14-year old Miniature Pinscher, as her last days were the same as Indoor's. With advancing age, weight loss, a bout with pancreatitis, the same liver and kidney function loss, seizures, we made the decision to not let her suffer. While Dave was in the vet's, I waited with Tootsie in the passenger seat of the Yukon. I told her I loved her, how brave she was, reminded her of the fun times we shared, and softly held her close. I didn't want to hand her over to the vet's assistant but knew I should. We both were with Tootsie when she passed on. I can honestly say that day was the absolute worst of my entire life.

Steve and Jennifer ... remember the good and fun times you shared with Athena. Remember her not as she was when ill but the Athena that was running and playing, keeping you company, and just being the most loyal companion ever. Even though she's now gone, that love you have for her will always be there.

Mary Pozzi

[Ralph LoGrasso]

Steve,

My deepest condolences to you and your wife. I had to go through the same thing two years ago with my Bull Mastiff, Jake. He had some sort of a neurological disorder and his back legs failed him. He couldn't walk and wouldn't eat. Steroids helped him for a week or two, but in the end we knew it was time for him to go.

Just keep thinking to yourself that you are doing whats' best for the animal. It may not be what's best for you, but it is what's best for Athena. That's true selflessness, much as the dog has given you over the course of its life.

Again, I'm very sorry for you loss--stay strong. Just remember, she is suffering and in pain. You are doing the best possible thing you can for her in removing that pain.

[yellowrallys]

Steven, please know as a lot of us on this thread do, I know what you are going through. As I sit here typing and wiping the tears from my face and keyboard, occasionally looking over at the small wooden box of our "Buttons" ashes, I feel your sadness. She was 19. We could not decide when. After several trips to the vet those last days, the time came. Our vet came to the house and took her out of her misery. On one of our trips back from the vet, Buttons had an I V in her leg, which had kinda perked her up a bit, here we go down the road, I V bottle hanging on the coat hook in the car, people looking in wondering who the patient was. It's been over a year and the wife is still not quite ready for another yet.

Steve Moore

[toxicz28]

Steve,
Although I've never had to make "the decision", I have lost a few pets, and know what you're going through. I extend my deepest sympathies to you.

[Steve1968LS2]

Less than 6 hours until the vet is supposed to show up her and I'm scared I'm going to chicken out. Go figure...

She seems a bit more perky, her tail was wagging just a bit and she ate three or bites of dog food.

My emotions say "Look! she could go another few days!" but I know it's just prolonging it, not for her but for my own selfish reasons. We laid in the bedroom for an hour and watched a show on pirates. She was peaceful, but she is always breathing kind of heavy, even at rest. I think she knows she's done, she's just so tough that she doesn't complain.

I need a drink.. or two..

My brain is so out of it that I hit the planter coming into our driveway and blew the tire on my truck. Luckily I have a couple extra ones in the garage. Man, I'm a wreck.

[motorheadmike]

We've lost a few pets over the years (cats...) and it boggles the mind just what kind of impact a loss of an animal can have on a family. Especially when you lose two in a span of 24hrs. In 2001 we lost Umeeko at the age of 18 years when he was surrounded and killed by a pack of dogs. Less than a day later our other cat Shadow began to cry excessively, we thought it was depression. A quick trip to the Vet showed stomach cancer it was too late to stop and he was put down. Our home became a house for a while when it lost a lot of its life.

The good news? We rescued two of the greatest kittens from the animal shelter a week later and haven't looked back with anything short of pleasant memories of the first two.

Steve,

Just love the new puppy and remember Athena fondly... it is all they ever ask.

[nicks67camaro]

Very sad to hear. Our pets are family and its never easy to see them in pain. We wish you and your family the best.



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[Steve1968LS2]

Slight reprieve...

This afternoon Athena really perked up. She ate half a can of food, wagged her tail and seemed in much better spirits.

My wife saw this so we postponed the vet visit to the house. I was going to still have it done, but decided against it.

You see, my wife's step-mom (of 25 years) was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer.. bad stuff and she is fading fast. All the kids are going up there this weekend to pretty much say thier goodbyes. Putting Athena down tonight, then having to drive 200 miles tomorrow to deal with more heartache was tearing my wife up. Add on that it's Mothers Day and you get the idea.

She understands that we will most likely have to do this next week, before I head to Year One and she's ok with that. I was sort of set on it and now I have to "reset the clock". But that's life sometimes.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers, I'm sure even Athena appreciates it. I will let you all know when she goes to that big dog park in the clouds.

[mpozzi]

That's the best news I've seen all day. All smiles for Athena and hopefully there's many more good days ahead for her.

Cheers,
Mary Pozzi

[buickfunnycar.com]

That's the best news I've seen all day. All smiles for Athena and hopefully there's many more good days ahead for her.

Cheers,
Mary Pozzi

+2 Steve!
I hope this is a sign of good things to come man...best wishes to you and yours.
Just keep in mind the light burns brightest just before it goes out...you'll know when the time is right.

[Steve1968LS2]

That's the best news I've seen all day. All smiles for Athena and hopefully there's many more good days ahead for her.

Cheers,
Mary Pozzi

We're realistic.. It will most likely happen next week Tuesday or Wednesday. We don't want to get to the "oh my god, she's suffering so bad!" stage.

With Jen having to go see her step-mom and Athena woofing down a bunch of food it was just best not to do it tonight, but we would have if her condition was like it was last night.

But she is getting so spoiled this weekend.. lots of sun time in the backyard and she seems to love Costco chicken.

[Steve1968LS2]

+2 Steve!
I hope this is a sign of good things to come man...best wishes to you and yours.
Just keep in mind the light burns brightest just before it goes out...you'll know when the time is right.

Yea, it happens in people too.. one last grasp at life and then slip away. We decided to let her have the weekend.

We refuse to let her suffer so we will do it when required... even if it is so hard.

Thanks guys!

[mpozzi]

Then I offer a hearty vote for lots of deboned Costco chicken followed by some serious petting. We'll keep fingers crossed for a good weekend for Athena.

My condolences to Jennifer as well regarding her stepmother.

Mary Pozzi

[2yellow69]

Steve,

We hope she does well through the weekend. Not looking forward to the day we have to go through the same heartache you and Jennifer are dealing with now. One of our boys is getting up there in age (he'll be 12 in August -not bad for a 90 lb lab mix). Just remember that when the time comes to help her across the bridge you are helping her to a better place. Athena will be playing in fields of flowers backed by snow-capped mountains under skies of the purest blue. Maybe not everyone believes it, but I would like to think that all of our friends (2 legs or more) will be waiting for us when our time comes.

With love,

Matt, Jill, Hudson, and Khumo

[buickfunnycar.com]

Yea, it happens in people too.. one last grasp at life and then slip away....


Yep,saw my mom and my MIL do the same exact thing...so I do speak from experience.
Sounds like you got a good plan and a handle on it...smart dog by the way...who wouldn't love Costco chicken?

Hope your Mother's day wknd is very uneventful

[63SW]

I really feel for you Steve and your family...Such a hard thing to do but as was said to me by a good friend "it will be the last nice thing you will be able to do for her" .

Lots of tears , second guessing yourself and missing her but as their owner and BEST FRIEND , sometimes we have to make the tough calls.
turns a grown man into a crying little boy in seconds thats for sure !

Im sorry for your loss !

Its still real fresh for me too, so i know where your at.
THE DAY BEFORE THE GRAND RUN i had to let go of one of mine after 17 years ..WHAT A GOOD BOY ...his name was Primer .
I still have a ITALIAN GREYHOUND and a mini Schnauzer .

Heres PRIMER

[Steve1968LS2]

She was real "up" on Friday so I made the call to save my wife the added burden of doing it then and having that piled on what she is going through today. I've made the appointment for Tuesday night since that's when her vet, who she likes, is available.

Yesterday was a good day. We played and laid in the backyard alot and took a ton of pictures. That will make my wife happy. She at a ton of Costco chicken. Today she's not very hungry. It's that rollercoaster you spoke of.

It will be Tuesday at the latest... we've had our time to say goodbye and let her know we love her. Her quality of life isn't going to get any better and we don't want her to get to a "bad" stage before we help her to the other side.

It sucks, it's not fair, but it's the way life is sometimes.. gotta take the good with the bad.

I'm glad we are doing it at home. Trying to decide if we should let our other two dogs see her after she's gone, before she is taken for cremation. Thoughts?

Athena enjoying the warm day and the cool grass..
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Stryder chasing down the pup Daisy.. "I'm coming for you Ricky Bobby!"
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[TonyL]

I would not let them see her after she's gone steve.

Dogs might associate the vet's visit and you with the event. best to just have her be gone to them.

[rob07002]

Steve, I'm sorry to hear you and your family are going through this. It can be harder to make these decisions with pets beacuse they give selflessly and your not sure if they truly understand the joy that have brought and what is happening to them.

Take solice in knowing that you gave her a wonderful life. Better to have loved and lost. I usually don't care for that saying, but it is very true sometimes.

[63SW]

We didnt let ours see them when we had to let them go ...
sometimes my schnauzer still looks for Primer , That was her buddy.
I find her laying in his bed at times as well.

Our Italian Greyhound is named Daisy too !
she too is tan & white !

They Bring us so much enjoyment and love and its hard to say goodby!

Its heartbreaking - our thoughts are with you !

[David Pozzi]

Steve,
We held off a couple of days too long with our dog, it was just how it worked out, - over the weekend she got much worse and first thing Monday we had to take her to the vet for the "shot". It's a hard thing to time. Sorry you have to go through this, but loss is a part of life we have to endure, - somehow.
David

[bulldog19]

Steve, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. I had to put my buddy down about 2-years ago. My parents bought her when she was a pup and she went everywhere with us including work everyday. She was well like by all the customers and developed her own personality as a result of the environment that she lived in. When my mom passed away i took care of her and it was hard when the day finally came that she had reached the point where i had to decide to stop being selfish and do what was best for her. One i was loosing my buddy and also the fact that i still had a piece of my mom with me most of the time. You never realize how much you love them until it comes to a time like this. Take care in knowing that she enjoyed life and had owners that loved and cared for her!
Bulldog

[Steve1968LS2]

Tonight is the night.. last night was rough. Jennifer kept thinking "we're going to kill our dog tomorrow!"... It's her, and my, baby... definetly the toughest thing I've ever had to do. And she is so sweet. She will eat if I feed her by hand and her limp is bad, but she still wags her tail and acts happy to see us. People should be this tough, no complaints at all.

I just hope all goes smoothly tonight...

[Rhino]

Up until about a year ago I wasn't much of a pet person. I didn't mind if others had pets, but never wanted one myself. All that changed after I got my first new "friend."

At this point I couldn't even fathom having to make that decision. It sounds as if you're doing the right thing, no matter how much it may hurt.

[Rhino]

(double post)

[buickfunnycar.com]

you had a gameplan Steve and you stuck to it and now that the end is here,all you can do is go forward and end the pain.she sounds like she had a wonderful wknd and obviously a great life so just think of the good times and the memories you shared.

she knows...believe me,she knows how hard it is on your family.

our prayers are with you in this most heartbreaking of times every pet owner will experience.

[Motown 454]

Steve My and my wife's hearts go out to you and your wife I'm so sorry to hear of Athena's problem. We lost our Westie Snuggles 6 years ago and I said no more dogs too hard to loose them. My wife works a couple of nights a week and when she was at work the house felt like an empty auditorium, with just me in it. It only lasted a few weeks, Then we bought another Westie Belle shes not snuggles but she is my bud. Know your both in our thoughts as well as Athena . Wayne

[bwhinnen]

Steve and Jennifer, my family's thoughts are with you for tonight. We hope all goes well and know that you are doing the right thing.

[Steve1968LS2]

It's done... :(

The vet came at 7:30. We put the other dogs in the back of the house and Athena was laying on her favorite bed, on her favorite blanket with the TV on just like it was any other night.

While we petted her the vet gave her a small injection just to relax her. Athena gave us all kisses, even the vet, when she was resting she recieved a cathater and then another shot that put her to sleep. As she dozed off we told her what a good dog she is and held her paw. The last shot took only seconds and she was gone.

My wife went to the other room to be with the dogs and cry while I carried Athena, in her blanket, out to the vets car where they had a bed in the back seat. I layer her in the bed, kissed her on the forehead and said goodbye to my friend of 10 years.

She never wimpered, never cried and never shook. She went as peacefully as anyone could ever hope to. Right now she is chasing slow squirrels that sweat gravy and have dull claws.

Rest in Peace girl, you made us better people and we love ya...


p.s. For any pet owners out there I highly reccomend having the vet come to the home... It's a million times better than doing it in some cold vets office.


Thank you all for your support, a very hard deal and your words have helped.

[buickfunnycar.com]

sounds like it went about as well as expected Steve...best to you and yours,it'll get better from here on out.

[Tony_SS]

sorry Steve... you probably will have dreams about Athena... I did and it help knowing that Max was still with me and in a better place at the same time.

[72NovaSS]

My prayers go out to you and your wife Steve.

[Gandalf]

Not sure I can see the screen clearly enough to type Steve - my heart goes out to you and your family. That includes your other dogs because they will know and act weird for a while too. It's hard to watch but, among the great things you've said, it's part of life. The good bad and the downright ugly sometimes. One can only hope it makes us stronger in some way or another.

Years ago I recall having to drive my beloved cat of 18yrs to the vet to be put down. I had gotten him as a newborn kitten on my 1st birthday. Among other things - that cat saw me through thick and thin growing up and was an unwaivering friend. It was a similar rollercoaster toward the end also - we took him to the park to run and chase birds and take many many photos. Friends coming by the house the day before to say good bye.

More recently we said goodbye to my wife's cat of similar age. This time the vet came to the house much like you describe. Without a doubt and from what you describe, you made the very best choice. As to timing, as several others have said and no doubt you have now experienced....you just know when it's time to say good bye.

We have four cats now, ages 4-9 and I dread the thought of having to revisit those decisions again. You get so attached to the little buggers and their very unique personalities!

Anyway, as tough as it may seem, everyone's in a better place now. Take care Steve and best wishes to your wife & family.

G.

[Larry Callahan]

I never thought anything on this site would cause me to shed a tear. Our hearts go out to you and your wife.

[saunacrank]

I'm so sorry to hear about Athena. I know my dogs are just like any other member of my family. My gf just came in and asked why I was crying looking over "my car site" so I had to show her, now she's crying. Losing a beloved pet is always so hard.

[TonyL]

:( Sorry Steve.

My wife and I wish you well. At least it is over. "Crying over a car site" indeed. This is why this place is special. We're more than that. We're family.

/Rest well Athena.

[andrewb70]

R.I.P. Athena....

Andrew

[bwhinnen]

I've just shown my wife Vicki this thread and a photo of Athena, very sad times Steve and Jennifer. A terrible loss to your family and we wish you all the best in your time of mourning.

Indeed R.I.P. Athena, we hope you enjoy your afterlife as much as you enjoyed life with Steve and Jennifer.

[trapin]

Steve...if anything good came of this, it was an oppurtunity for us all on this site to get to know you a little better. You're a good guy, we knew that much from all the help and promotion you've given this site and our cars over the years, but it also highlighted how close we've all become on this little corner of the World Wide Web. There are some damn good people here...not just car people....but people you can honestly call friends. We've all had a chance to see the "human" side of you and your wife Jennifer. I would say that little dog hit the jackpot having the two of you for owners. And it seems she returned the favor judging by how hard you took her loss. I'm sure God made a place for her. With the TV on, of course. :)

[dropit69]

R.I.P Athena...from me and my dog Cheyanne...

[Young Gun]

RIP Athena... I worry about something like this happening to my dog every day. Some days she wont get out of bed and I worry, or shes sluggish, she is getting old and I worry about having to go through this, too. She is in a better place though, and no longer in pain, you did what was best for her and you cannot think twice about that. My thoughts are with you and your wife Steve.

[6'9"Witha69]

Steve, my condolences to you and your wife from my family. RIP Athena.

[70bird]

My condolences to you and yours

[dogtag]

There isn't much one can say at a time like this....my Wife and I go thru it much too often. We rescue Great Dane Dogs and when we get them they are pretty much a train wreck but we love them all just the same. We have 10 currently.
http://theranch.5u.com
We also own an Emergency Practice and deal with this kind of thing all the time. Sounds like your Vet was a real pro.

I have a favorite that I often read when I'm a bit blue and thinking of some of our lost friends, so I'll include it.
It was written by Lord Byron, the Poet, back in the early 1800's and is inscribed on a stone at Newstead Abby near Sherwood Forest, England.

It pretty much sums it up for me.

DT



[/URL]
(http://readytogoebooks.com/JGHawaii.html)

INSCRIPTION ON THE MONUMENT
OF A NEWFOUNDLAND DOG.
A Memorial to Boatswain
by
Lord Byron
Newstead Abbey, November 30, 1808.

Near this spot
Are deposited the Remains of one
Who possessed Beauty without Vanity,
Strength without Insolence,
Courage without Ferocity,
And all the Virtues of Man without his Vices.
This Praise, which would be unmeaning Flattery
If inscribed over human ashes,
Is but a just tribute to the Memory of
BOATSWAIN, a DOG
Who was born at Newfoundland, May, 1803,
And died at Newstead, Nov 18th, 1808.

When some proud son of man returns to earth,
Unknown to glory, but upheld by birth,
The sculptor's art exhausts the pomp of woe,
And storied urns record who rest below:
When all is done, upon the tomb is seen,
Not what he was, but what he should have been:
But the poor dog, in life the firmest friend,
The first to welcome, foremost to defend,
Whose honest heart is still his master's own,
Who labours, fights, lives, breathes for him alone,
Unhonour'd falls, unnoticed all his worth,
Denied in heaven the soul he held on earth:
While man, vain insect! hopes to be forgiven,
And claims himself a sole exclusive heaven.
Oh man! thou feeble tenant of an hour,
Debased by slavery, or corrupt by power,
Who knows thee well must quit thee with disgust,
Degraded mass of animated dust!
Thy love is lust, thy friendship all a cheat,
Thy smiles hypocrisy, thy words deceit!
By nature vile, ennobled but by name,
Each kindred brute might bid thee blush for shame.
Ye! who perchance behold this simple urn,
Pass on --- it honours none you wish to mourn:
To mark a friend's remains these stones arise; I never knew but one, --- and here he lies.


[URL="http://readytogoebooks.com/JGHawaii.html"] (http://readytogoebooks.com/JGHawaii.html)

[CarlC]

She never wimpered, never cried and never shook. She went as peacefully as anyone could ever hope to.

That is because of her never-ending trust, and love, of you and your family. As hard as it was, you did the right thing.

My condolances.

[ill steez]

I'm sorry to hear the sad news, but think you did the right thing.

I just went through the exact same thing, and on April 22 had to put my dog, Max, to sleep. He had gone from full of life to a complete wreck in two short days. All I can say is that I'm happy that he didnt have to suffer for very long, and that we will always remember him.