Sometimes I think we are kinder to our pets than we are to humans.I can
only say this as I have worked on an Oncology unit for 20 years and often
watched lives being extended beyond reason only to prolong suffering.I had
a family dog when I was growing up.I still have his collar.His scent is still there.
He was a german shepherd and the most gentle soul.He was diagnosed at 15 yrs
with cancer of the testicles and was in the most excruciating pain.I still remember watching my older brother having to hold his head to his bowl just
so he could eat as he became so weak.It must have taken a lot of courage
for my father to make the decision to have him put down.I still remember the
day as clear as if it was yesterday.We all went to the vet together and each
said our goodbyes to Rex outside.Only my brother went in with Rex,as he was the
closest to him.The vet allowed my brother to stay until he had passed on.
I am quite certain Rex knew where we were taking him as he was a very sensitive dog.It was the right decision to let him go and celebrate his life,
instead of trying to hold onto him.
