My sympathy Jack. I must admit, though, that I couldn't read your text to the end. After a paragraph, I read it diagonally. I'm sensible to those things and if I had read it completely, I would have cried like a baby -- already have a lump in my throat. Makes me think of when I put my 20 year old cat to sleep (and I've got an 18 year old whose no spring chicken anymore).
Anyway, my thoughts are with you...
________________________ "Tobacco is my favorite vegetable." --FZ
"Government is the Entertainment Division of the military-industrial complex." --FZ too
Dogs, and domesticated animals we treat as pets in general, are angels and we should be thankful for them and their unconditional love. The rampant abuse they experience at the hands of humans is appalling and shows some of the darkest and most shameful sides of humanity.
That was a touching eulogy Jack. I'm very sorry for your loss. I had a Westie myself once too. They are truly a loyal breed.
At 17 years old you gave him a long and well-loved life. By bringing the vet to your home you gave Ziggy the gift of a comfortable and familiar place in the end.
Posts: 74 | Location: Ontario | Registered: March 07, 2008
Originally posted by wauds11: At 17 years old you gave him a long and well-loved life. By bringing the vet to your home you gave Ziggy the gift of a comfortable and familiar place in the end.
This is the best way I've found to deal with an always-painful parting.
Two of my cats, ages 18 and 16, went this way - and I can't imagine ever doing anything different now.
It's painfully hard to say goodbye, but it's just that little bit easier when it's done in a comfortable and familiar place.
Jack, I'm glad that your vet is willing to do this. And once again, thank you for sharing this with the rest of us.
So many cigars, so little time...
Posts: 2945 | Location: South of the Mason/Dixon Line | Registered: September 24, 2007
Jack you post got me thinking back to the days I spent growing up with my family dog, Benji. My parents bought him 4 years before I was born and once they brought me home from the hospital I had a best friend for life. He was so overprotective of me it wasn't funny. We too shared many fond memories. I also remember how rapidly his health declined and when we had to put him to rest it was a very hard thing for me to go through.
My Mother is now considering getting another dog for her house and I just can't seem to get behind that idea because in my eyes no one can replace my big brother Benji. ( I am an only child otherwise)
To everyone who replied to my post and 'spoke' to me so kindly and empathically, my sincerest thanks, especially to those of you who've had the same experience. I shared your expressions with my wife, so please know how touched -- and helped -- we both were by your thoughtfulness. You guys are the best. Truly.
'Question authority. Think for yourself. Filter out the spin. Engage elected officials critically. Make them defend what they're doing in your name. Derive the truth. Speak truth to power.'
Posts: 4038 | Location: Boston | Registered: April 16, 2005
A beautiful eulogy for a beautiful relationship. My deepest sympathies on your loss, Jack. I am fast approaching the end with my own dog, a scottie, and after reading your moving words had to shut the office door for a few minutes.
