So sorry to everyone reading this thread who has lost a pet.
I have only had one dog - we got her when I was 5 and she was just 6 weeks old. I was 18 when we had to have her put down due to cancer. When the time came that she needed to be put down, I drove to the vet to be with her with her so she wouldn't be alone when she was put to sleep - but it turned out to be one of the hardest experiences I have ever endured. To this day - 15 years later as I read this thread, I have been crying for the last 1/2 hour as I try to get through all of these messages. I will never forget our last moments together - and many times I have wondered if it would be easier if I wasn't there when she was put down. Believe me, it is no easy thing to witness - something that will be with you for the rest of your life.
When my wife had to have her cat put down a year ago, (she had her for 18 years) I advised that she not go in while the vet put her down - I really don't think she could have handled it. Looking back on it, I think it was the right call for her.
To be there, or not to be there - very difficult call to make, and from my experience you will know what will be best when the time comes.
Here's hoping that its a long time before any of us have to go through something like this.
|