Paging Rich (hoosier 1)

[Polly]

Hi Rich,

Thanks for your note on my "update" thread. Losing my dog was awful, but you pointed out something that really contributed to severe long-term stress for me. It was watching my dog fail, little by little over the last 2 years and especially the last 6 mo. Everyday I felt like I was living "on the edge", worrying about my boy and hoping he was not in any serious pain. Worrying about whether he needed to see the vet again or whether I should be limiting his activities more. And through it all he kept up his amazing spirit (maybe to please us?) which tugged at my heart so much as I watched his body deteriorate. Of course, the last 2 months were the absolute worst - in terms of knowing when to make that big decision - I kept thinking if he died on his own, it would relieve us of the decision. That was not to be, and we stayed with him the whole time until he passed with the vet's help. I am still remembering that last hour constantly. I know that the happy memories will return, but it takes a while. My husband says he never wants another dog because he can't go thru this again. Anyway, I am so sorry that you are also going through this - it is truly one of life's biggest downers.

On a happier note......aren't you lucky to have such a super boss? Whatta guy! He sounds quite intuitive in addition to everything else.

Love,

Polly

[hoosier1]

Hi Polly!

Good to hear from you, dear!! My heart goes out to you for your loss. I understand what your husband says about not wanting to go through that again but a good friend of mine, who used to rescue pound puppies once told me something that sticks with me to this day. It is that God let's us borrow these wonderful animals to bring fulfillment into our lives, but then, he calls them home to be with him. Of this, I have no doubt. He never intended to leave them with us forever. That is simply part of the deal.

And if one is fearful of the emotional trauma of dealing with a pet in decline, one will never be able to experience the joy of having a pet (easier said than done, I know). William came into our lives for a reason. At a time when my wife was terminally ill. He is one of the primary reasons, I am sure, that she recovered as well as she did. He is her companion, plain and simple. And with my travel schedule, he is even more important to her. Nothing comes between the two of them.

So I echo your comments and your feelings, especially today as I see Will suffer and as he is having so much trouble walking. William is 11 now. And for a large breed, that is getting up their. But God does not need him back yet. I know this to be true too.

Have a stress-free weekend Polly, and when the time comes, go find another animal that the Lord wants you to raise and love.

Rich