The day I have dreaded is coming up this Saturday @ 1:00 PM .... Gotta say good bye to my buddy

[Botany]

I can't let my sweet black lab go on any longer. He is 12.5 years old and has
some medical issues but he can no longer really walk and his rear legs are failing
him. My son who is now 24 and father himself is coming into town for the trip
to the vet's office.

I thought we had a little more time together but the dog showed me today now is the time.

He is resting now, is no pain, and just gave him some salmon too.

[Me.]

1. Sigh

[Solly Mack]

2. I'm sorry, Botany.

I now that feeling. I know how that moment feels. It breaks the heart.

[Haggis for Breakfast]

80. I lost my feline fur babies recently, too.

But, I believe that when you die, all of the animals you loved in life are waiting there to greet you for eternal cuddles and love.

[irisblue]

3. 🕯️

[UrbScotty]

4. I'm so sorry, Botany.

[renate]

5. He's always trusted you to take good care of him, however hard it is for you

This is such an act of love, to keep him from suffering and to look after him till the end.

I am so sorry. I’ve been there and I know how much it hurts. It’s so difficult but it’s such a loving thing to do, to endure your pain so he won’t have to bear his.

[Dem_4_Life]

6. I am so sorry that is so heartbreaking.

That is so nice that your son is able to come in for that moment. I still to this day miss pets that have passed on and everyone it seems like they are always with you watching over you.

Hugs for you!

[hlthe2b]

7. all I can offer you is my own understanding

and

May you remember the good days always.

[Different Drummer]

8. Very sorry, Botany!

[Delmette2.0]

9. I'm so very sorry.

Dogs become our friend, part of the family, protector, confidant and child ( scared of fireworks and thunder). Letting go is so very hard. I had a Sheltie that capture my heart and that of both my son's. I wish peace and love for you.

[FM123]

10. I am so sorry dear Botany, I too had to say good bye last year - sending you hugs.

[niyad]

11. Lady of the Beasts, please take Your little one gently home, and send peace and comfort to

those who love him.

is there a mobile vet in your area, who would take care of your buddy at home, spare all of you that awful trip?

[Botany]

15. Our vet is a wonderful guy and i wouldn't want anybody else to do it.

Although we will do it outside in the truck so as not to bother the dog
as much. My son will have him in his lap and I'll be there too.

[niyad]

16. I am glad that you have such a wonderful vet. I know how very hard this is for all of you,

and you have my deepest sympathies.

[dameatball]

12. My sympathy goes out to you both. Went through the same thing in March.

Be as brave for him as he has been for you. Perhaps you will meet again some day.

[leftynyc]

13. I lost my beloved Sundance back in February

and my heart aches for you. But they depend on us knowing when it's time.

[lame54]

14. I feel ya...

Been there - it's hard
Stay strong and always remember the good times

[Delphinus]

17. Bless you.

It is the hardest thing to do and the kindest. My heart breaks for you.

[gademocrat7]

18. Condolences, Botany.

[BigmanPigman]

19. Losing your baby is the hardest thing to deal with.

I feel for you. I am still grieving the loss of my little girl 15 years ago. My "new" little girl is 15 and I dread going through it again.

Please take care of yourself too. It is easy to get distracted, make simple mistakes, etc. Be king to yourself and remember to breath.

[joet67]

20. I am so sorry.

[peggysue2]

21. It's very tough

If our furry buddies live into old age, we're all faced with this heartbreaking task. I've lived with dogs all my life and it never gets easier. But like you, we're often faced with the question: Am I keeping my best friend alive for me or for him/her? The question is hard and so is the ultimate answer. And they do, in fact, show us the way, hard as it is

I empathize completely.

[lancelyons]

22. I am very sorry for you. I do understand how you feel.

I also have a black lab and a chocolate lab. The black lab named Rufus had cancer diagnosed about a year ago and had a front leg removed. 4-6 weeks back he had a lymph node that was the size of a baseball by the location his leg was removed. The LSU vet school said the lymph node was cancerous and there where other issues and things looked bleak. I brought him back home to spend the last few days with him and continued giving him antibiotics. He suddenly improved and the swollen lymph node was gone. He is a 12 year old.

The chocolate lab named Coco who I nicknamed CocoPup is 8 having been born around the same day my mother passed. Me and my son went to LA for a golf tournament and days later, my father watching Coco said she was not eating.. He took her to the Vet and they gave her ANtibiotics and steroids for a couple days. They then told me just before the 3rd round of the tournament that she was in bad shape and recommended exploratory surgery or euthanasia. I was caddying for him. On the second hole of the tournament i gave approval for exploratory... by the 6th hole they texted me back that she had cancer in of the liver, spleen, etc and recommended euthanizing her while still out from surgery. It was a hard decision and I never got to say good bye. I had to keep things quite and show no emotion the rest of the round for fear of ruining a good round my son was having. It was a tough rest of the day.

I though my lab with 3 legs and cancer would go first and leave just Cocopup but the entire situation was flipped. She passed the same day John McCain did so I will always remember that date.

Its very tough to lose a pet that is part of the family.

I Hope you Enjoy the last little time you have and I hope you get back on your feet quickly.

[Cousin Dupree]

23. So sorry. If he could talk he'd probably say, "Thank you for giving me a life filled with love. But

you are doing what’s best for me now.”

[ZZenith]

24. It is one of the hardest things I know.

It’s part of the contract, down there in the fine print, that you will most likely outlive your dog.

The only consolation I have ever known from it is that I didn’t pass first, leaving my beloved to wonder why I had abandoned him.

Most mornings I begin my day by brushing my cheek with a tuft of hair I kept from the tail of the eight-year-old Golden Lab we had to put down last year. Somehow it fills me with his energy and gives me the strength and courage to face another day without his excellent company.

A few months ago I saw an ad on Craigslist titled “Sweet Black Lab” and couldn’t resist the urge to click on it. So against all reason I now have an eleven-year-old Black Lab lying at my feet, and will soon have to go through the same damn thing.

All of which is to say that I have mad empathy for you, Botany, and wish for you Strength and Courage as you go through this.

[marieo1]

25. Botany

We have 2 part labs and this time will break my heart and I know it's coming as they are both pushing 10. We have to be strong for our loved ones. We have to do it for them. My heart goes out to you. Take good care!!

[malaise]

26. I cried for a month after my beloved dog was euthanized

It's painful. I recommend a replacement to keep you busy.

[Frustratedlady]

27. What a pretty profile. I love labs.

It's hard to feel you are doing him a favor, but you probably are. I've been there a couple times and know what you face.

Love him while you can and enjoy the memories.

[BlancheSplanchnik]

28. My heart goes out to you, Botany.

It’s so hard because we love them so. 💔😪

[Leith]

29. It's Hard to Say Goodbye to a Friend

I've had to do it, too, and it still brings tears to my eyes. Please take comfort in knowing that you were a good friend, too, and you gave your sweet black lab a good life and he knows it.

[mountain grammy]

30. They do have a way of telling you when it's time..

but it's so hard. You're in my heart, Botany, you and your sweet black lab.

[spooky3]

31. My condolences to you. Nt

[onecaliberal]

32. So sorry. There is never enough time with them.

[lamp_shade]

33. Here.... and grab a tissue...

[yonder]

41. +1.

Wonderful clip, reminds me of our dog, Katie.

I'm all choked up.

[OKNancy]

46. Oh geez.......

Makes me so sad, yet it's so comforting.

[LibinMo]

60. This made me cry...

We went through the same thing with our black lab 5 years ago. Husband & I couldn't lift him so our son came over to help carry him to the car. We all cried. It was over very quickly & he didn't suffer. I still can't watch Marley & Me without bawling.

[Gidney N Cloyd]

75. Aw, dammit...

[nini]

82. I still miss the dog I had as a kid

it's been 42 years.

So sorry for your coming loss. As you know you are doing the most loving thing you possible for your fur baby. <3

[bullwinkle428]

85. Dammit...I just went through this a little over a month ago. My beloved kitty

had been diagnosed with a very aggressive form of cancer, and about six weeks later, could no longer eat. I made the only humane choice there was.

[ResistantAmerican17]

92. No words.....just

[Dave Starsky]

93. Jesus Christ, why did I read that?

[Moostache]

103. Ok...I had to close my office door so the staff did not think I was losing my mind...

No words...just tears.

[MontanaMama]

34. Aw geez. I am so sorry.

Our pets are not here with us long enough, are they? It is a love like no other. I'm glad your son can be with you. Saturday will be hard. Peace to you, your family and your beloved dog.

[MoonRiver]

35. I'm so sorry Botany.

[Harker]

36. You can let him run and play in your heart.

Love transcends.

[CaptainTruth]

37. I'm so sorry. I know how painful that is.

[Granny M]

38. So sorry, Botany.

Glad you'll have your son with you for support. It's so hard, but you're doing the most loving thing for him. Wishing you peace and comfort.

[StarryNite]

39. I'm so very sorry.

[sinkingfeeling]

40. I'm so sorry for you and your family. It's hard to release our best friends.

[yonder]

42. Sorry for your loss.

Post #33 did me in.

[TwistOneUp]

43. My heart goes out to you.

This is a horrible situation. I've been there. Be strong, know that you are doing the right thing, and that other people's thoughts are with you.

[Adrahil]

44. Some friends had to do the same thing Monday...

So tough to lose such a friend. My wife and I are taking them out tonight to offer comfort. I wish I could do the same for you.

[Duppers]

45. Their lives are too short. 😪

You have my total sympathy.

I empathize because I've been in your shoes. Your post caused a lump in my throat. Labs, being the sensing ppl they are, my girl just now came to my side, gave me a paw and licked me. Now I'm openly crying. I feel your pain.

Btw, my handle is my first Lab's nickname, although I'm unworthy of using it. She was a far better person than I am.

I'm sure you'll replace your precious sweet black boy. Perhaps with a hopeless senior who needs you.

🙏 Peace, courage and to you, Botany.

[Honeycombe8]

47. I'm so sorry. He and you are fortunate that you get to choose the how and when...

and ensure he goes peacefully in your loving arms.

I lost my Roy last Thanksgiving, so I feel your pain.

He's lucky that you have been paying attention and see that it's time. So he doesn't pass away in pain or alone.

Smokehouse is a beautiful dog. I'm so sorry.

[Vinca]

48. I'm sorry. It's the worst thing to have to do, but it's also the most loving.

I bet he had the best 12 1/2 years any dog could have.

[lunasun]

49. Take care and rest now sweet puppy

[sweetroxie]

50. I'm very sorry for your loss

I too had to say goodbye to my beloved 16+ y.o. mutt, Roxie, the day before Father's Day. So it is still quite fresh for me. I hope it goes smoothly and that your buddy gets the relief he needs. But there's no way around it: it still hurts.

[redstatebluegirl]

51. So hard...hugs.

[Glamrock]

52. I'm so sorry Botany.

Sending my best vibes for all three of you.

[Bengus81]

53. I'm about there with one of my Airedales.........

Same kind of condition--hip displacia hits them hard but....he's a 40lb dog and has lived 15 years and two months. Three plus years beyond their normal life span.

[iscooterliberally]

54. You have my condolences and my empathy too.

I'm usually the one in my family that has to take that final ride. It's never easy, but it must be done when the time comes.

[NRaleighLiberal]

55. so sorry...your story takes me back to last December when our chocolate, Mocha, told

us the same thing.

You are lucky - your dog is lucky. After some time, the pain will subside and you will have all of the wonderful memories and pictures of times you shared.

It took us 6 months, but we are now two months into a new rescue. Koda isn't Heidi, or Zoe, or Buddy, or Holly , or Mocha. They were all wonderful. Koda is already equally wonderful.

Be at peace, my fellow gardening friend.

[IluvPitties]

56. Blessings to you and your buddy.

Let that bond between the two of you live forever.

[sheshe2]

57. Peace

[GoneOffShore]

58. So sorry.

[zeusdogmom]

59. My heart aches for you Botany.

Our dogs are the best. And it hurts to say good bye. But it is the right thing to do. Hugs from afar.

[Mira]

61. My heart goes out to you

and all who will be grieving. It's a huge loss to you - and your dog companion has had a good long life.

[ooky]

62. Sorry for the loss of your friend.

All of us that have known the love of a dog dread this day.

Mine is turning 8 this year.

[Fla Dem]

63. Hugs to you and your Buddy. I am so sorry.

[herding cats]

64. I'm so very sorry.

He's always depended on you to take care of him and right now you're about to endure the hardest part of that task.

You're a loving pet parent.

[KPN]

65. I feel your pain Botany. Our favorite all time family dog is quickly approaching his last legs

as an almost 12 year old. He's a mongrel rescue dog, but absolutely the happiest guy a person could ever know, even today when every step and movement pains him. Nothing but smiles and love all the time. While he may be with us another 6 months to a year or so, we are already grieving his future absence from our daily lives. Fortunately we have another young female rescue mutt that he did well training and will help to fill the big hole in our hearts when the time finally gets here. She's another dandy. We feel very fortunate to have had him and now her, but also know at this point she will likely be our last "man's best friend".

May warm recollections and peace be with you Botany.

[cp]

66. Love to both of you

from me and my dog

[stevil]

67. The worst

Love to you.

[wendyb-NC]

68. So sorry to hear about your buddy.

It's obvious your sweet boy is so loved, your decision to be there for him, along with your son is so good. May you find peace and consolation, in the sorrow.
The pets who have been part of my life through the years are never far from my realizing their indelible, eternal nature time and again, just out of the blue. They've even been part of me getting a new four legged family member.
Take care.

[brer cat]

69. My heart is with you, Botany.

It's very hard when kindness hurts so terribly.

[bluestarone]

70. I"M right there with you!!

Did the same for our dog (Springer) Man it was really tough!!! So i'm here to say i feel for you!!! My best to you!!

[demigoddess]

71. so very sorry, but dogs have souls and live on in heaven

I had a cat that, I am certain, sits at the right hand of Jesus. He deserves it too.

[MLAA]

72. Warm thoughts for you and love to your buddy. Sure sounds like his life was filled with love.

[Princess Turandot]

73. I'm so very sorry. nt

[peacebuzzard]

74. I am so sorry,

Such a sad time it is to say goodbye to your companion.
I have no words , what an angel he must be.

[smirkymonkey]

76. Oh, poor baby! I am so sorry for you Botany.

I know what a painful decision it is. Nothing hurts like losing your best friend and loyal companion. You are doing the best thing you can by keeping him comfortable and treating him well in his last few days. He knows you love him and he loves you back.

[GreenEyedLefty]

77. So sorry. We said goodbye to our kitty in June.

It was the first time we had a pet euthanized and it was so, so difficult, but he told us it was time.

Sending hugs and comfort your way.

[Stinky The Clown]

78. We pay the price of their love and companionship at the end of their time

The price is paid in tears.

I wish you peace and a quick journey from unbearable sadness to happier memories of unbridled joy.

[Hortensis]

79. Glad to hear your sweet fellow is still able to enjoy eating a bit.

We've been there, Botany, "we" being my husband and I, and I'm glad to hear your son will be with you two through this.

[GETPLANING]

81. Family dog is family

RIP, faithful companion

[Ilsa]

83. Hugs to you and your family and your precious buddy. nt

[tosh]

84. Hugs for you, Botany,

and for your sweet lab.

[bullwinkle428]

86. I am so sorry. The love and caring you and family feel for your buddy comes through

loud and clear.

[Ligyron]

87. Hard choice emotionally but logical and the right thing to do.

We should all be so lucky when the time comes

[Heartstrings]

88. No words....

Easy passage over the rainbow bridge beautiful, sweet pup.....

My son had to let his black lab go last fall...never easy.

Bet you have tons of faithful memories in your heart....💓

Hopefully those memories are a comfort.....so sorry....

[radical noodle]

89. I'm so sorry Botany

You gave him a great life, I'm sure.

[dchill]

90. No words, so ...... (Pats on your back.)

[lillypaddle]

91. Hard day for you and your son, today

So sorry for the loss of your friend and family member.

[Shoonra]

94. Deepest condolences

What a lovely dog! What a sad day.

Two years ago I had to make the same decision for my beloved cat, a real prodigy among cats, for similar reasons.

I found comfort in a poem that essentially sums it up: Today you have to be his best friend!

Be comforted among the mourners.

[panader0]

95. So sorry Botany.

I was talking to Jeannie (she has 3 cats) about getting a puppy.
I haven't had a dog for several years. She reminded me that I was 68
and that a puppy might outlive me. Maybe an older dog from the pound.....
Your dog was lucky to have a loving human.

[NewJeffCT]

96. I'm sorry for your loss

you have my sympathy

[lark]

97. Deepest sympathies!

We had a very similar issue with our 14 year old 100 lb. Catahoulan/Siberian mix. My husband kept telling me it's time to let him go, and I'd say he can still walk (barely) and was still wanting to live. Until several days in a row he lost control of his bowels during the night and had to drag himself away by his front legs, then when I got him outside, he kept falling. The 2nd day of this, he fell and wouldn't get up, even when I would stand him up, he wouldn't push up with his front legs, just fell back over whining in pain. He told me in his way that he was done, he hurt too much to try any more.

[catbyte]

98. I'm so very sorry.

The only time our furry family members are capable of breaking our hearts is when it's time for them to leave us. I'll be thinking of all of you tomorrow. Again, I'm so sorry.

[Hotler]

99. I've been there many times and.....

it never get easier.

“If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.”
Will Rogers

[disillusioned73]

100. Be well, sorry you have to go through this..

saying goodbye is so tough and yes, 12.5 years is a bit early.. may his journey forward be peaceful with your love by his side..

[Moral Compass]

101. My sincerest sympathies

Saying goodbye to a beloved member of your family is incredibly hard and painful. Just know that you’re doing the right thing.

So very sorry for your loss.

[Moostache]

102. I am so sorry for your pain and loss...

I wish I had words that could make it less painful, but I do not.

I have been there too many times and can see it coming once again with our current 10-year old lab-retriever-chow mutt. Our pets are part of our families and part of our lives and it is always painful to say goodbye forever. I miss my departed fur babies constantly, but I also remember them and the moments and shared time as well.

Thank you for providing a loving home and environment for your pupper and may those warm memories overtake the cold heartbreak with swiftness.

[Bayard]

104. So sorry

But I'm always glad to hear how hard it is for someone to do this because it means their baby was truly loved. A bright spot in a world of cruelty and hatred.

[Botany]

105. Thanks to all who posted.

[lancelyons]

107. I hope things are getting easier for you.

I know how tough this is.

He was a beautiful dog.

[PearliePoo2]

106. His eyes! So devoted and in love...

Peace beautiful boy.