trientalis

Now that I've finished wiping away my tears, thank you for writing that, Vicesboy. What a wonderful, irreplaceable relationship you've had with a wonderful, irreplaceable dog.

If it helps any, I think it is eventually possible to find and love another dog. My parents lost our corgi, Georgina, several years ago and when it happened, Dad said that that was it. They'd never get another dog. They've had Toodles, a PBGV, for several years now and they love her dearly. Each time it's different, because each dog is different, but there's always love. Let yourselves grieve for Shea, in your own manner and time. When the time is right, you'll be ready to let another dog into your lives and both you and your dog will be the better for it.

Once again, I know how hard it is to make the choice you have made. I was 19 when my father and I took Winnie, our basset hound, to the vet that one last time. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done but I am glad I was there. I'm glad that to the last, she could feel me petting her and telling her I loved her. (Damn. I'm tearing up again. Sorry.) I guess I just want to say, I know how you feel and I'm so sorry that this had to happen. I'm just so sorry.

Please take care.

Viti

Thanks everyone. I have never seen my husband like this and I think it was good for him to write it all out like that.

Here's one for the "Possibly the stupidest move" annals...there is a rottie puppy on the last day list at the high kill shelter here in town. We're going to go get her...even if we decide not to keep her we will foster her and put her on the Rottie Rescue Underground Railroad.

christ-on-a-stick

vicesboy,

Your story was far and away the most moving thing I have ever read here. Beautifully written.... thank you so much for sharing your story.

Keep us posted on how things go with the new pupster... can you post a picture?

Viti

She had already been adopted when we got there for which we are glad...but we found the ugliest Rottie/Shepherd mix in the world...pictures tomorrow.

Cipher Girl

Hi vicesboy and Lady Shea

What a very moving story. You did every thing you could do for the dog. It sounds like his prognosis was not very good, as they did not even know the cause of the paralysis. I think that dogs and cats live for the now, and their lives should not be full of pain and infirmity.

It sounds like you did the right thing even though it was very painful. It takes a lot of courage to make the decision to end a pet's suffering. It seems easier to hang on even if the pet is suffering in the hope that the beloved pet will get better. Even if the logical part of you knows that this is not the case.

Its good that you are getting another pet. Even though the animal will never replace Shea, it will have its own personality.

Take care

never been there

So sorry about your loss. You both have a clear need to give love, and the world is a better place any time you get to do so.