Have to have my dog put down... - Calgarypuck Forums - The Unofficial Calgary Flames Fan Community

Reggie Dunlop · 09-26-2007, 07:54 PM

I had taken my eight year-old Golden Retriever into the vet last week after I noticed a large lump on his hip. Turns out the vets discovered a smaller lump near his tail and the biopsy showed cancer. The vet estimated about a 30% success rate because it is the type that spreads to vital organs. That, plus his arthritis and I can't see any quality of life for him in his remaining years.

He's a great dog and gentle soul who never met a person or other dog he never liked. Because of that, I'd like to get another one in due time.

I suppose there's greater tragedies out there in the world, but tomorrow is going to be a tough day for me. Right now he's contentedly sitting at my feet.

TheContact · 09-26-2007, 07:58 PM

I'm sorry

That's truly awful news.

Caged Great · 09-26-2007, 07:59 PM

Sorry to hear that Reggie, losing a pet is one of the harsher things to go through (if you actually care about it)

FlamesAddiction · 09-26-2007, 07:59 PM

That's terrible, but it's the right thing to do.

Reggie Dunlop · 09-26-2007, 08:01 PM

I'm fairly composed, but still.... you get used to the dang mutt.

Nothing like coming home after a difficult day at work and walking up the steps and seeing a big tail wagging through the window.

icarus · 09-26-2007, 08:01 PM

So sorry Reg.

When I was back in Calgary this summer I had to put my 18-year-old Siamese cat (who acted more like a dog) down, who I had essentially grown up with. It was really tough and still is actually, I miss her dearly, but I was glad I could be there with her at the very end.

Enjoy your last day together, think of all the good memories, and accept that this is the right thing to do.

Condolences.

ken0042 · 09-26-2007, 08:02 PM

I'm thankful that I've never had to make that choice before; however when my pet rabbit died suddenly a few years ago; I was devestated that I never had a chance to say goodbye to him.

Be strong, but don't be afraid to cry.

Iowa_Flames_Fan · 09-26-2007, 08:02 PM

Reggie, I feel for you. My dogs are both getting up there in age, and I don't mind telling you that thinking about the inevitable day when I have to make the call that you're making puts a lump in my throat.

But you're doing the right thing. It's courageous to put his quality of life over your need for his companionship. Dogs are amazing companions, and I'm sorry to hear that you're losing your friend.

prarieboy · 09-26-2007, 08:05 PM

I'm terribly sorry to hear that.

The biggest problem with dogs is that they don't live long enough and at only 8 years old it is even more so.

I don't know if you've been down that road before or not but you can take comfort knowing that your friend and companion will go peacfully with you by his side.

My sincere condolences at this difficult time Reg

metallicat · 09-26-2007, 08:06 PM

Sorry Reggie, that's very unfortunate. I have a dog right now, but never did have one growing up. I don't want to think about the inevitable day when I have to say goodbye for the last time. I don't know how I could do it, especially considering they probably don't know it's coming.

Dion · 09-26-2007, 08:08 PM

That's a tough loss to bear, Reg!

I've had to put down 2 family dogs in my lifetime, and let me tell you, it was one of the hardest things to do. Don't look when the vet inserts the needle. That "why are you doing this to me look" from your dog will haunt you forvever.

Take a buddy with you when you do it. It helps to have a friend near by in these situations.

Reggie Dunlop · 09-26-2007, 08:08 PM

I'm okay. When I was still in high school (like 27 years ago) I had to put my beloved childhood pet Samoyed down when he developed Parvo Virus. My mom called the school and had me pulled out of class when his time came.

Dogs are great though. I think they really help to put life in perspective.

Flames_Gimp · 09-26-2007, 08:11 PM

sorry to hear that.

for some reason i don't think i could ever put my dog down.

troutman · 09-26-2007, 08:12 PM

My condolences. I lost a favorite fish in my aquarium last week (a blue cichlid). This week I see two baby fish in the tank.

The circle of life.

Ro · 09-26-2007, 08:13 PM

I seem to recall seeing a pic of your dog that you posted on CP for one reason or another. I remember thinking "that looks like a friendly dog!"

I have only recently adopted a pet cat, and have grown so attached to the thing I cannot stand to think what it must be like to be in your shoes right now Reg. Thinking of ya!

HOZ · 09-26-2007, 08:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Reggie Dunlop

I had taken my eight year-old Golden Retriever into the vet last week after I noticed a large lump on his hip. Turns out the vets discovered a smaller lump near his tail and the biopsy showed cancer. The vet estimated about a 30% success rate because it is the type that spreads to vital organs. That, plus his arthritis and I can't see any quality of life for him in his remaining years.

He's a great dog and gentle soul who never met a person or other dog he never liked. Because of that, I'd like to get another one in due time.

I suppose there's greater tragedies out there in the world, but tomorrow is going to be a tough day for me. Right now he's contentedly sitting at my feet.

Terrible news. Horrible to lose a good friend!

HelloHockeyFans · 09-26-2007, 08:20 PM

Ah, geez Reg, I'm so sorry. My deepest sympathies. I don't know what I'd do if I ever lost my girl. Just know you're doing the right thing and it's better for him.

Displaced Flames fan · 09-26-2007, 08:21 PM

Real sorry to hear that Reg.

I remember seeing that picture of your dog as well. I know a lot of people like a lot of different pets, but there's nothing like a good dog IMHO.

Dion · 09-26-2007, 08:22 PM

A Dog's Prayer

Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart
in all the world is more grateful for kindness
than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly
teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music,as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls on my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside...for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements...and I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth...for you are my god, and I am your devoted worshipper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it were dry.I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.

And, my beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight,
do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me
the merciful bounty of eternal rest...and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.

Remember me not with tearful eyes...but instead with an abounding heart. Should you choose to fill my bed, feel no guilt,you have not betrayed me. Love another as you always loved me...
and they too will love you as I always have.

....(author unknown)....

FlamesAddiction · 09-26-2007, 08:22 PM

I had to have a cat put down before. As hard as it was, and as much as it hurt, on a certain level I felt good that I could make a decision that would cause me grief and loss but that was for the best.