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Vets Reveal What Pets Do Right Before Death, And It’s A Must-Read For Every Pet Owner
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Vets Reveal What Pets Do Right Before Death, And It’s A Must-Read For Every Pet Owner

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There’s one thought, one image every pet owner is constantly running away from. Saying the last goodbye to your trusted companion. It’s inevitable, yet we act like we can put it away. Until we can’t and it creeps up on us, unprepared. But we should. Pet lover Jessi Dietrich from Jacksonville, Illinois recently asked her vet what the hardest part of his job was, and the thing he revealed about putting down pets instantly broke her. Jessi soon tweeted the unexpected answer and it went viral, generating over 140,000 likes and nearly 42,000 retweets.

“I just have one pet of my own. His name is Rick, he’s a black and white cat and is about 2 and a half years old,” Jessi told Bored Panda. Though he only weighs about 5 pounds, he has the biggest personality to make up for what he may lack in size.”

“I took him to the vet because about a year and a half ago he nearly died from a UTI blockage,” she added. “My vet had to perform an emergency surgery which one of the risks of which was an increased risk for infection for the rest of his life if the surgery was successful.”

“The surgery went wonderfully but since then he gets at least one or two infections a month (the vet said he is not in pain from them). So we’re regulars at our current vet to treat these chronic infections in short.”

Rick’s near death experience made Jessi very aware that one day she will have to say goodbye to her furry little treasure. “Lastly I’d just like to say that while some pets may only be in our lives for a short period of time, we often are in their lives for a large percentage of theirs. They are with us during our highs and lows, always excited to see us when we’ve gotten home. Please consider this when the time comes for you to put an animal down.”

Scroll down to check out why so many owners are going about this whole thing the wrong way and don’t be surprised if you end up sobbing like the rest of the internet.

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P.S. Jessi would also like to add that her intention of tweeting this was just to share what one vet said, not to guilt people into staying or making others feel bad for not staying for previous pets. “I just wanted to share these experiences to raise awareness to them, especially that last one. There are options when putting a pet down.”

Saying the last goodbye to our loving pets is too painful to even think about

Image credits: iStock / skynesher

But one vet recently shared a confession that reveals the heartbreaking truth, and every pet owner needs to read it

Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital has also shared a post written by a vet, where he encourages people not to abandon their pets when they need them the most

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People were heartbroken

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Some replies were from actual vets, too

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sanchit-mit2006 avatar
Ladies and Gentlemen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Bruno died in arms when I was 11 year old, I wept for Bruno, I dug the grave, I put him to the rest, I put flowers where Bruno now lay. He never left my side for every second of my 11 year life, I couldn't leave him too for any second. Bruno was love, Bruno is with me.

macimae654 avatar
Maci Wilcox
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dog Keesha was put down when I was 11 as well, and my entire family stayed in the room. I hugged her the whole time and refused to leave the room until I was 100% sure she was gone. Rest in peace Keesha and Bruno :(

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kwill04 avatar
Kiahna
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This really hits home. When my dog Max was sick, my dad took him to the vet and left him there. I asked him if he stayed with Max, but he said that he just left. I was heartbroken. I went out to my other dog Rosco and promised him that I would never leave. I promised that I would stay with him to the end.

kwill04 avatar
Kiahna
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can't. I can't do this. I commented 3 hours ago and I can't stop thinking about this post. About how many dogs are betrayed by their owners every year, and I can't stand it. I don't think I have ever been this affected by something on the internet EVER. And I have never forgiven my dad for leaving Max in that place. Never have, never will. It's the hardest truth of them all. You never want to hear it, but we need to be there for our loyal companions, even when we don't want to.

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dodiegoldney avatar
Doodlebug
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have been with my father, my stepmother, and now my mother when all three of them died, and kissed each of them on their cold foreheads before I left their sides forever. My brother was there for none of that. I'm not upset or mad at him for that. I just feel sorry for him, because it's clear he's not as strong as he pretends to be. Some people are just not mentally or emotionally equipped to deal with death and dying.

diane1atk avatar
diane a
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i cared for my mother for the last months of her life and it is the thing i am most proud of in my own life. There were numerous false alarms when I thought "this is it" to the point of getting family there to "say goodbye" only for her to revive a couple of hours later. I thought she had passed away several times on my watch in her last 2 weeks in her own home. the last few hours of her life were peaceful - me and my brother holding each hand - waiting for every breath to be the last. Due to staff shortages at the local Dr Office it was 8 hours befor a Dr could come out and issue a death certificate. I used that time to make my mum presentable, as she would have liked. I used her favorite body lotion to make her smell beautiful, I removed the hairs on her upper lip she hated and tidied her hair.I am eternally gratefull for being there and being able to do that

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Herb Eaversmells
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There are services that will actually come to your home. So your pet is in a comfortable familiar place

jodiellis avatar
Jodi Ellis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Exactly, I feel taking them to a cold vets office is wrong. Let them know they are loved in the house they lived in for years. Pay a little extra!

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Alexandra Davis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've just had to call all of my cats that are inside (I have 5, but 2 were outside) to give them big hugs after reading this. I've had over 14 cats in my lifetime make the walk across the rainbow bridge and those who passed at the vets always had a member of the family with them (my parents when I was younger and either me or me and my parents as I was older) I didn't even know people left them alone. When I've had cats pass without us (road accident, old age at night out of the blue) I've been distraught I wasn't there with them. We came home one day from school/ my mum Work, and found our dog dead in the kitchen. She had died in her sleep and my kitten was curled up next to her and our cat on top of her back like they sensed she was going and they were there with her comforting her. We were all upset we hadn't been there with her, but took comfort from the fact she wasn't alone.

alusairalustriel avatar
revrobuk avatar
Rob Williams
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was at home recovering from cancer treatment when Barney was born and I actually delivered him and he was with me all the way through the treatments, check ups, and when I got the all clear. There was no way that I was not going to be with him on the day he died. Was it hard? Hell yes! I cried more when he died with his head on my lap than I did when my Father died holding my hand, but there was no way that I would not be with him at the end. Barney-5b9...b3c733.jpg Barney-5b996b9b3c733.jpg

diane1atk avatar
diane a
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I dont think anyone could regret being with a beloved pet (or family member) in their last moments. There is only the one chance and you cannot go back and do it differenly

vladika_ioan avatar
Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

True. Even fifty-five years later, there are times that I miss our dog a great deal. It was very hard on my mother and me to be there when he was put to sleep, but I'm glad that my mum and I were there for him. If I had it to do over again, I would not do any differently. I wouldn't want to die alone, so leaving my pet to die alone would for me be selfish and cruel.

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diane1atk avatar
diane a
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my oldest girl had to be euthanised due to the later stages of terminal cancer I would have done anything to be there with her for even one of her last minutes. Sadly I had left the relationship and had been forced to leave the dogs with the ex 250 miles away. My last farewell to her, an hour before the vet appointment was over the phone on speaker. "Byebye Rosiebaby darling - mummy loves you" I think she heard me

vladika_ioan avatar
Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope you will accept a cyber hug. Hopefully your ex was there with her at the end.

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Rissy cake
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel horrible i had to put my cat to sleep in july i didn't stayed in the room now i feel guilty. I will not to do that anymore even though it is hard on my current cat that is still alive. I was just so upset and sad i couldn't do much for my little cat. I was one of those ppl that didn't want to be in the room. I always apologized to my cat who i think is now a spirit but reading this hurts my heart.

fedup_1 avatar
Kathy Renbarger
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's important that you learned from your mistake; and, developed more character as the result.

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Kat
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When we had to put down our boxer, Petey, my dad couldn't stay in the room. Petey was HIS baby boy; you couldn't find a happier man and his dog. It wasn't that my dad didn't care or anything, but rather because of a number of things, my dad just doesn't cope with loss well. It was too much to watch his baby boy pass away right before his eyes, and that's the same for a lot of people.

bzap724 avatar
MBZ MetalsmithArtist
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was seven months pregnant with my son, a "risky" pregnancy due to my health issues- and my beloved cat because extremely ill from a fast growing Cancer...due to his suffering and inevitable painful demise I made the decision to have him euthanized... But I couldn't contain my sorrow (and was afraid that my being distraught would hurt my baby). So, I had my husband leave work to come and hold him as he passed away. I know I did the right thing but I still regret not being there for him as he crossed....RIP Chet

rabbitmouse avatar
RM Ro
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You did the next best thing by having someone he liked being there. That matters.

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Beth Simpson
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've had to put down 2 pets not even a year apart from each other. My 20 year old Siamese I'd had since I was 6 and the little puppy I got to help me cope with her loss. I held my cat as she passed as my future husband held me. I had no one with me when I was forced to put my puppy down. He got sick and when the vet said it would cost $2000 to treat him and they refused to do a payment plan for me I was forced to take the cheap option. He was 6 months old and my husband was at work so he couldn't be with me. My cousin had found out and even tho I told her I did not want to talk to her during this she refused to let me go and as I was arguing and crying the vet did not wait and put him down without me being able to pet him and hold him while he passed. That was the worse experience in my life and I'm so mad that there are vets out there who don't care about the owners. Thank you to all the good people out there who are there for their pets and vets who go above and beyond.

vladika_ioan avatar
Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would hope that most vets are aware of pets' humans' feeling these days. I can't imagine how hard it must have been for you to not be there to see your puppy out of this world. I am thankful that our vet was a sensitive, aware person.

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tylerduffy avatar
Tyler Duffy
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Damn BP. I mean yea this is some info people really need to know but couldn't you make this post later in the day. No one should wake up and read this , it's to damn sad.

sanamonthemoon avatar
Sanam Ahmadi
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My beautiful baby died in my arms 10 months ago, with my family around us, all of us talking to her and telling her how much we love her and how she changed our lives and made us better persons and that how much we were going to miss her. She listened to us and comforted us as well! It was the hardest day of our lives, I will never forget the pain of holding her lifeless body in my arms and not wanting to let go! But despite all the pain, we would have NEVER left her alone in her last moments!

dnsteinhauser avatar
Danica Steinhauser
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was overseas when Kaya, my furry ball of love, had to be put down. Not only did I ask her "dad" (who was my ex-boyfriend) to hold her, but I asked to have a vet come to the home to put her to sleep. I was crying and in horrible pain as I was there virtually via skype as she had her last moments hearing me, but being held by my family in her own home. I can't imagine having it done any other way. She was like my child. Would you leave your child to die alone with strangers?

mochiseki avatar
Arun Sharma
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In India a pet can't be put down easily and the owner has to be present otherwise vets do not euthanise.In a way its good.We have lost three dogs of which only one had to be euthanised.All of us were there with them to say final love u and goodbyes even though with a heart being ripped to pieces.We should not be judgmental but these sweethearts need us to be there and I think we all must be there as far as possible in return for all the love they shower on us.We even burried our babies in our garden where we will be with them as long as we are here.

tlilly avatar
Lilly
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

there's a part of me that could see the side of the person who can't "handle" having their pet die in their arms, but the part of me that has loved that creature FAR outweighs my own inability to handle something like this. Having had 3 dogs go this route, I could no more leave them alone than I could my own child if they are in the hospital! they are feeling creatures, and like the vet said, they are scared & searching for you. I at least owe them that much for all the joy, love, and security they gave me during their lifetime. RIP my babies--you are still thought of lovingly

deschaub1955 avatar
De Schaub
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was with my beloved doxie, Savanah while she was euthanized. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. Put down my beloved friend. I knew she knew "something was up", and she knew I knew something was up. She gave up one little gasp and was gone. I'm sorry this is so graphic, but if knowledge replaces fear, fur-baby parents need to know as much as possible as to what might happen.

norby871 avatar
Deb Shaffer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a former vet tech. People have their own reasons for not staying when their pet is euthanized, but don't ever think they are not mourning for the pet. Everyone deals with grief differently. Like all of the vet staff in the article said, if an owner feels unable to be there, the pet doesn't die sad and alone. Vet staff make their last moments as warm and tender as possible. Stop making an incredibly tough decision even worse.

alusairalustriel avatar
Alusair Alustriel
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm sorry, but I disagree with you. If you take a pet, you should consider it dying at one point and not being there for him/her at the final moment I find cruel and super selfish. How can you even try to justify people leaving their friends alone? I cannot comprehend that. You took a pet, have guts to be there for him for bad and for worse, not when it's convenient for you. Vet staff will never EVER replace pet's family.

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jimday avatar
Jim Day
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nice. My dog was blind, deaf, and in the late stages of CCD. I had to board him for a business trip knowing that it was basically palliative care. He died while I was gone. So thanks for the kind thoughts about my pet dying while I was away. I'm not sure that your attempt at anthropomorphism is accurate or not.

veggrowing avatar
Corcaigh
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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mckinleywinkler avatar
McKinley Winkler
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My pupper Scotch was real sick. He couldn't walk, wouldn't eat and he would soil his blanket instead of going outside. We called a vet to come put him down. I held him, my whole family was there besides my other do Cabo. Scotch just sat there whimpering, Cabo started howling, and he never barks or anything. We let him in and he made way to Scotch, licked him clean and laid his head on his body when he was gone. I could have sworn that Scotch was smiling, he stopped whimpering, closed his eyes, those eyes never opened again. Cabo just laid next to him, making a humming sound. Finally he sat up and howled a deep soulful howl. It was the saddest thing I ever heard. You will be forever loved and forever be a friend. Rest in peace Scotch.

envyalakye avatar
Alakye Skalsky
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I thank the vet for posting that. More people need to see it. So many think 'oh its just a dog' ike its a couch or a tv. They dont realize how much the dog waits for you to come back. Its like when you see those dogs reunited with their long lost owners after years lost on the streets. Or the ones hat see their owners come home after a long time away. They remember you. They look for you every moment you are gone. Yeah it may be hard for you to let them go, but you gave them the best life they could have, go in there knowing you did your best for them, and continue to do so. Let them finish out their life with you. A vet or tech can try to keep them calm the whole time. But it is nothing like the affect you have on him/her. They need you there. Even if its too hard. Just buck up and do it. You are here for them not you. To help ease them into the other side just as you eased them through life. Dont fall short at the finish line. And yes It is ok to cry

meowface99 avatar
Terri McGoldrick
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

9/21/18 I have to put my big tomcat Big Tux down TONIGHT due to inoperable mouth cancer, I'd like to share with anyone interested my input on this. I am nauseous thinking about what is about to happen in appx 3hrs and have second guessed my choice a thousand times today: IF. If is such a big word for only being 2 letters. When followed by "only" it can bring a myriad of supposition & indecision. IF only I had seen this sooner. IF only I had paid more attention. IF only I had noticed he was losing weight. I am a realist and will NOT drag this on and let Tux slowly waste away. A mobile vet svc is coming to our home tonite to help him cross over in the comfort of his familiar surroundings. I urge anyone to seek out this option & not make your pet's last moments terrifying ones. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10211860055965797&set=a.1135642400233&type=3&theater

jovyjergens avatar
Jovy Jergens
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have been there for my pets when they were euthanized at the end of life due to age and/or terminal disease. It nearly killed me each time but I would never let them go that final mile alone! Ever!

deanna_derosa18 avatar
DeAnna DeRosa
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please do not place guilt on people. When I was young, I didn't think I could watch. Now, I insist on being there and holding my beloved pet. Yes, it's hard. Yes, I burst into tears. But I want her to know that she is the most important part of my life and I will be with her until the end. I am thankful to all the vet and vet techs who make this sad transition from life to death as comfortable as possible for a beloved pet. Please do not make the people who were not there feel guilt and pain now. They can't go back and undo their decision. I learned that when the time comes, I must be with my baby and hold her after death.

sassybooie avatar
Meeow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm with you til the end of time, until we meet again at the rainbow bridge. I'll never leave them. Even it was a heartbroken and they are part of your family.

vladika_ioan avatar
Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is how I feel about all the pets I have had the privilege of sharing my life with over the years. I miss all of them, but I take comfort in the knowledge that one day I will meet all of them again at that rainbow bridge.

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David Burkhardt
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We are not in the situation to judge! it says nothing about this Persons Love to a Creature, eaven its Family and not a pet! Its very easy to talk, when you are not in this situation... i cared very about my father and mother as they get ill from cancer with 69 and died in a horrible Way my mom 12 weeks later and my dad 20 weeks later... after i was destroyed too... today when people talk about how they would care about there family-members, and how bad people are who dont care, i have to smile a bit and ask if this person ever was in this situation, or just talking without knowing... its other, - eaven more worst... because this person or pet knows how you are suffering and become guilty for that too... the damage who can happend can be bigger then we tough before and the creature who will die dont want that, so if you think your Love is very big and you can not handle, say good bye before, because Creatures who love and care eachother should stay connected in love and not pain...!

maeganwinkelmann avatar
Maegan Winkelmann
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a vet assistant, I don't think it's appropriate to guilt owners into staying with their pet. Everyone handles the death of a pet differently and not everyone feels they can handle the process of staying. However, I will say that the idea of you being your pet's world is true; for many pets, they haven't known much of the world without you. So if you can manage it, I do think it's a wonderful gift you can give your pet at the end. If you can't, or if we have animals that don't have families, veterinary staff will do our best to give that animal all the love we can. We can't live up to the love of an owner, but we do our very best. In our clinic animal never dies alone or without comfort. But I do urge any owners that think they handle staying with a pet to do so and instead think of the fact that you are giving them a gift. Yes, the gift is often hard on us, but I think that makes it all the more valuable.

kristynschulz avatar
Kristyn Schulz
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh, I feel so bad! I wasn't even in the genral vicinity when my cat died!

alex_58 avatar
Fbomb
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The GF noticed one of our cats acting off and took him down to the Vet. I got a call a short time after to get down there. I grabbed our dog storm and headed down since he was note's best friend. I knew what was up as soon as I saw the GF. Note batted storm's head when he walked in for old time's sake then we watched the Vet administer the injection. The Vet left us as said take all the time you need. We all just hung around together until he passed. We weren't going to let someone so important to our family be alone at the end. A few days later we got a sympathy card from the Vet. He's our Vet for life. They will even do house calls for when the time comes so that the pets are at peace in their home. Dammit, who's cutting onions in here.

atruong74 avatar
SweetMamaP
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Our vet will be our Vet for Life too. After our cat passed away, we got 2 cards from the animal hospital and our Vet donated, in our name, to a pet diseases foundation that funds research for illnesses and diseases that afflict our pets. This donation is the reason why she will be our Vet forever.

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Kiss Army
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The first cat my husband and I put to sleep, we were not there and I still feel guilty about it. In our 25 years of marriage, we have lost two other beautiful fur babies and, as hard as it was, I stayed with them as they passed because leaving is harder to bear in the long run...

danh_2 avatar
Dan H
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit not the way to start my day

hannah_lydia87 avatar
Hannah Howard
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Couldn't even read this. My animals are my babies and I will be with them until their death or mine

mckinleywinkler avatar
McKinley Winkler
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My puppers Scotch was real sick and we decided to put him down. The vet was supposed to come to our house to do it, we all sat with him, comforting him until she got there. We wouldn't let our other dogo out to see him. That was a mistake. He whined until we let him see Scotch. He came in and started to groom Scotch. For about 5 minutes. He started to whine again and stopped grooming him. When he moved Scotch has a faint smile on his face. Took a deep breath and never breathed out. We all sat in silence, stunned.Suddenly, my dogo lifted his head to the sky and let out a mournful howl. And he didn't stop until said some prayers to Scotch. Rest in peace Scotch, you will forever be my savior, we will love you till the end.

rissycake avatar
Rissy cake
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes i know i should have been there for her i am sure she forgives me. My cat i still have i will be sure the last thing she sees is me.

rebecahozuna avatar
Rebecah Ozuna
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The thing is that's very hard for many owners to stay with their pooch while they're passing. Not everyone can take it as it's a hard image that will haunt us until we die. I lost my dear cat due to old age (19 people years) and i'm still wondering if i could've taken her eyes looking at me. It's a guilt that could drown me if i let it. It pains me that animals won't get our decision to leave then to pass. I still apologize for running away from her, but i'm not that strong, i could've died with her if i stayed by her side. I can't go through this anymore; took me 3 years to recover from her lost so i decided that she was going to be my last. I feel that i've betrayed her; i can't deal with this again.

meaganmartin avatar
Meagan Martin
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I watched my cat die and I don't think I provided any comfort at all to her, as I was so stressed and traumatized. I was upset for weeks after and depressed about life and death. I couldn't just grieve for her, it was a much deeper existential experience and that made me mad at myself and feel guilty. I was there but still let her down. So no, not everyone is up to being a comfort to their pet as they pass, but that does not make us heartless or cruel. Some of us are way too sensitive for these things. Everyone handles pain differently. And someone who has taken their sick pet to be put to sleep to spare them misery, has already made an important and kind choice for the pet's benefit. I don't know how I'll react next time, but I do think that making people feel guilty who choose to step away because they can't handle it is deeply arrogant and wrong-minded.

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Marta Falco
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

all my animals die at home. the vet comes to my house, I am totally preent. the first injection slowly makes them unconscious and then the 2nd one stops the heart. how anyone can just drop their animals offf at the Vets to be pTS is beyond me. callous, WOW. YES, BE HOLDING THEM.

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Darcey Thoits
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Theis is toxic shameful problematic garbage. Shame on that vet and the clinic he works for. Everyone grieves in their own way, don't shame folks for doing their best at the worst moment. Uglyon the inside is what that post is.

matthewmiller_2 avatar
Matthew Miller
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just sat with my 15 yr old best furry friend ever as he passed away naturally. I took the time to clean him as he vomited his water that he wanted to drink. I took the time to clean his few messes til he became incontinent. And i loved on him constantly. Missed some work to be with him. I don't understand why anyone could ever leave their companion like that. They should feel guilty. They are turning thier back on the most loyal family member in that member's last amd most crucial moments. Feel the shame. You're selfish and mentally underdeveloped. My Amun (that's his name) gave me his best. I never taught him one trick, but, he would do tricks, anyway lmao. Everyday, when i came home from work, he would sit on his butt and raise both front paws like he was begging lol. It was his way of saying "hey!" cuz i would slide on to my knees toward him and he would lean forward to get a hug from me. So, i had to watch my heart bleed out while i tried to comfort him as he passed. Worth it.

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Sue Knerl
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My vet took my cat Oliver in a different room and sedated him, then brought him to me, then took him away again and PTS. I wanted to be with him, not him by himself. I was really pissed. I won't go back to that vet.

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Racquel Coching
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

he was suffering from kidney disease and anemia...we cannot afford the required blood transfusion. but medication and supplements were given in hope his case would improve. before going to the vet he still had appetite and was drinking water on his owen. 4 days week from diagnosis/vet visit, he was still walking around slowly. staying in his usual spot on the porch. yesterday he refused his food and we had to liquefy his diet so we could help him. today, we were hopeful, he was suddenly up and about going to and fro the inner entrance of our house. stayed by the door, slept there a few minutes. then he woke up, stood, walked and went up. he was making noises with each of our kids room, as if he was trying to get their attention. then he proceeded to our master bedroom and slept by our door. I went to the foot of the stairs and said hey, dad aint there he is at work. he went to me, as if he was no longer sick, usual gait and wagging his tail. let me cuddle him for a while,then he's gone

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Brendan Schilka
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If an owner sometimes leaves their pets when they are being euthanized, it doesn't always mean they are being cold and cruel. I remember a long time ago, I had to have my old Rottweiler put down. It was a terrible day. But when the day came, I was crying in the vet clinic so hard, I ran out of the clinic before they put him down. I remember my dog used to be friends with everyone at that clinic, and they all loved him. But I fell apart, and I didn't think my dog needed that at the time. He was with people that cared for him many times, they were his buddies. They were professionals and calm. My dog didn't need to see me all hysterical and crying. I think every persons circumstance is different.

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Lee Anne
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can understand if a child couldn't stay, but an adult who becomes a parent to a fur child needs to be ready to accept every aspect of becoming a parent. Take care of your children even after they grow old instead of giving them to the shelter, hold them, and comfort them in their last moments. Honestly, I don't think someone should be allowed to own a pet if they don't understand the incredible responsibility. A pet is a young child completely dependent on you. I just had to say goodbye to my little love bug. It was completely unexpected and I was totally by myself and completely overcome with tears but I would have never left my baby alone. I would endure that pain a million times over in order to make her parting more comfortable and peaceful.

leeanne_2 avatar
Lee Anne
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If someone chooses to become a fur parent, then they better be prepared to care for their pet through whatever and hold them until the light dies from their eyes. I think it's incredibly week and selfish to leave the room. I just had to put my baby down, and I was not prepared at all for the final diagnosis but I would have never left her side in her final moments.

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Payden Crawford
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my Dog Smokey is about to die so tomorrow we are taking him to the vet so he can die less painfully and tonight I can’t sleep I’m sitting here right now holding him and petting him while he sleeps prepping what I will say to him tomorrow because I know he can understand me some people say he can’t hear me but I know he can I will be holding him the whole time as hard as it is I’m 12 I’ve had him since I was one and he was One so this is extremely hard but I love him so much and don’t want him to suffer I’ll miss him.

roseboe39 avatar
Rose Gobuzzi
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I laid on the ground next to her the whole time. I wept and petted her told her I loved her so much. I just loss my mother a week before then my lil angel fur baby Aaliyah passed away right in front of me. I never had one of my dogs pass away in front of me in my bedroom. I was heart broken. I let her stay in my bedroom in her bed for another night so I could get a wooden box made we painted it and wrote all kind of nice things on the sides my son had a cross to put on top I wrapped her in her bed in a garbage bag. I put a lil note with her name how much we loved her. I put some fake roses in there. I insisted on screwing it shut. I also sealed it with corking. My son dig a whole deep they put her box in there we filled it with mud an a mound so I could put a cross with flowers so I could see her from my kitchen window. She will be missed I had her for 13 years of my life. She was like a baby to me. I told her go to heaven and sit on my mother’s lap till I get there. Love you ❤️🐶

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Gary Wilson
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Everytime I have had to have a beloved friend put to sleep or held a sick one that was dying on the farm, I held them and showed them the ultimate love. To HELL with people who are so selfish and self absorbed that they would abandon their luttle friends. I hope you all die alone or in the presence if uncaring strangers.

rabbitmouse avatar
RM Ro
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, it is so hard to euthanize your dog, cat, etc., but PLEASE TRY to stay w/ your faithful pet. PLEASE TRY. If you can’t, can another person your pet likes stay w/ him/her? I was 13 when we had to euthanize our little pomeranian, Smokey. Leaving him to die w/out his family close by was not an option. Even if ordered out of the room, I was not leaving him. Sometimes pets pass away before you can get there. I am so sorry for those times. All we can do is hope the vet staff was comforting and he/she went peacefully. It’s also selfish to make the pet wait in pain for the owner to get there. I’ve told the vet, as I was on the way, if my pet was stable please wait, but if he/she was suffering, please euthanize quickly to end their pain and please pet them as they die. My 13 yr old labrador is sick right now. Will be planning euthanasia very soon. Dreading these coming days. I love you, Duke. You are the goodest, bestest boy, ever.

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Heather Marie
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some people may not be able to cope with the death of a pet. My own dog's death was traumatic for me so staying with my aunt's dog could have been even worse ...Family members stopped me from being in here with her and we cried outside the room and waited then went in when finished. I am a nurse and people react differently to death. Not everyone can handle seeing a loved one through that time. Please don't make that time even harder for them by judging harshly <3. You don't know what they are going through.

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Larissa McDonald
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To the vets and vet techs shaming the original vets post-you should be as ashamed as the people leaving their pet. Yeah it’s hard, but it’s not supposed to be easy for crying out loud. You think it’s hard on you imagine being at deaths door and your reason for living as long as you have walks out the door and leaves you alone to face that final moment? That freakin heartless. 😡🤬

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Sissy Hankshaw
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

At our place, the vet comes to the owner's home to put an animal down.

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Susan Callihan
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was present for Whisper 2001 age 18; James January 2017 age 15; his brother Ollie Sept 2017 age 15; and their step-sister Oct 2018 age 12. I held them with their familiar blankets and cried for each one. I would not have had it any other way.

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Doty Henry
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All of my animals died in my arms with the last injection. I talked to them, kissed their head and noses, ,and scratched their ears. My vet and his staff actually prayed over them with me, never once thinking that was silly. I wanted them to know I was with them all the way, not only for them, but for myself; after all they saved me I did not save them.

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Gscott Morris
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My worst vet experience was when I was prevented from being in the room by the vet's assistant when my dog was dying after being hit by a car. She died without me. I will never forgive that.

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Steve White
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I stayed with kissed and said goodbye to my wonderful cat Sasha .. She had been our friend for nearly twenty years and is still missed.

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Andrea Marshall
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My lil lassy, Holly, had to be put down after a series of bad strokes over 24 hours, I took her to the vet not prepared for what was coming . I knew she was really sick , she couldn't even sit up properly, :( but the vet was adamant that the kindest thing I could do was follow his advice :( So I did , he put in the needle and I freaked out , Stop I shouted at him stop and tried to pull his hand away from her leg but it was too late , she wimpered like she didn't want to go and I broke my heart as she slowly left me. Her heart stopped and she was gone . I still hate myself for taking her, I know she was dying but she could have done that at home. I still feel guilty.. and miss her so much. Hard to replace someone like that. But the other night I had a dream that I'd given her away and went back to get her. Saying sorry I left you ( which I never did ) but she seemed cold and annoyed with me .. I'm so confused and back to being upset . Vets just want your money.. never again. :(

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Susan Schell Tertel
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cat hadn't raised her head for days, but just at the moment before she passed when she was being euthanized, she raised her head and looked me in the eyes. It was heartbreaking but beautiful at the same time.

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Karla Jaldin Otero
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is awful, when some of my cats were really in bad conditions I have to .....you know, I never leave them alone in those last minutes, I cried a lot til see those little eyes get closed. Sometimes I feel guilty, sometimes I wonder if they were in peace before they leave, if I was doing the right thing.... I buried them all in my yard, 4 cats has passed away in my life and I loved them very much

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Wally Conger
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What kind of selfish, heartless f**k would leave their "pet" alone, in death. My precious furry angel Miss Kitty finally reached the point - at 20 years - when she was truly suffering; I took the decision that all my vets advised - to end her suffering; I held her in my lap, on her favorite fuzzy blanket, caressing her and telling her that I loved her, while I watched her put her little head down, take her last breath, and leave me. Shame, guilt, and judgement on every a*****e that leaves their pet alone. It's not about you, a*****e; it's about them.

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April Franklin
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

December 22 2017 I held my baby girl even for the last time she was 16 years old 4 months shy of 17 i got her when she was 8 weeks old and we were together the whole time. I kept myself from crying until after she was gone but than I buried my face in her fur and just sobbed. I wanted her smell to stay with me forever and I will never forget that day sometimes I still have dreams about it but I won't forget the day I brought her home either. I was lucky I got to schedule saying goodbye to eevon, we had wonderful days leading up to it, staying up late watching movies, snuggles and snacks. January 30 2019 I had to rush my girl rein in and it ended up being her last day. I got her as an abused puppy when she was 5 months old and she lived to be 15 (5 months shy of turning 16.) That was a heart wrenching choice, a choice I still struggle with today because it was so sudden and I wanted what was best for her. I cried the entire time, I hugged her, kissed her and never wanted to let go.

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Ryan Rudkin
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There is only one I wasn't able to stay for. My rabbit I made sure I was there whispering to him and making him feel secure and safe before he was asleep and then when they had to actually do it I couldn't stay I regret not staying but I'm glad he was asleep so he didn't know I had left I miss him greatly I just wish I had the guts to stay longer he helped me through all my depression and horrible times and I couldn't even be by his side in the end and it's horrible and haunts me everyday

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McKinley Winkler
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A couple years ago I almost died. ( I have a story of it on BP) I got home from the hospital, but I was still coughing up cups full of blood and coulnt walk yet, sometimes i was too weak to sit up. One night I was sleeping in my bed and I started caughing up blood, I was on my back and coulnt sit up. I started choking. My puppers, Scotch, started barking but when no one came he ran to my parents room and barked at their door real loud. They came running out, confused and Scotch ran back to my room, parents followed and all was well. From that point on, Scotch would sleep with me and if he ever felt that I needed anything he would try his best to make it happen. Some he did on his own. Get my blanket, slippers, water bottle, ect. Or he would get my brother or parents for me. Rest in peace Scotch, you will forever be known as my savior.

mckinleywinkler avatar
McKinley Winkler
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A couple years ago I almost died. ( Click on my name to read it) I got home from the hospital, but I was still coughing up cups full of blood and coulnt walk yet, sometimes i was too weak to sit up. One night I was sleeping in my bed and I started caughing up blood, I was on my back and coulnt sit up. I started choking. My puppers, Scotch, started barking but when no one came he ran to my parents room and barked at their door real loud. They came running out, confused and Scotch ran back to my room, parents followed and all was well. From that point on, Scotch would sleep with me and if he ever felt that I needed anything he would try his best to make it happen. Some he did on his own. Get my blanket, slippers, water bottle, ect. Or he would get my brother or parents for me. When it was time to put him down (he was real sick) we had everybody there with him, including our other dog. Rest in peace, Scotch, you will forever be known as my savior.

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Ellie Gillespie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I will always choose to be there for my animal when they transition. For me it's not as hard as not being there. But there are people who do not feel the same and it is their decision. Their animal probably already knows this about them and doesn't expect them to be there.

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Meg Holly MARTIN
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sorry, can’t see the words in this post with all the tears in the way.

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Patti Vance
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a Doberman, Helga, which was my furry love. she developed massive tumor on chest & vet told me not 2 worry b/c it was just a fatty lipoma; easy to remove. but after surgery vet was upset b/c although it was fatty tumor, it had these little tendrils that infiltrated her chest, requiring larger margin & removal of a mammary gland. wasn't able to get clean margins & would return. I nursed her & cried throughout her recovery & return of the tumor. when I finally decided that it was too hard on her 2 to go on w/ treatments made decision 2 let her go. I really intended 2 stay w/ her but I became hysterical & even though she was sedated, it was upsetting Helga. so I left...but as door closed behind me I saw her try 2 get up & follow which sent me over the edge; I almost passed out. been over 15 yrs, still feel guilty. ever since I stay no matter how I feel, cuddling before, during, & after

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Meg Buchanan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wasnt allowed to be with my dog when I had to put him down, he was so scared and want me so bad. I felt so distraught when he passed throught the doors to the back, I ran out of the vet sobbing. i would have loved to hold him and keep him calm...

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Robin Howard
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Several years ago I had to take my 17yr old cat to the vet because I knew she was dying just as her sister had 9 months earlier. I phoned before to tell them I was coming in hope I was wrong. When I got there I was ordered (NOT TOLD)to sit in the secretary’s office because I was crying. When the Vet came & took us to the examination room, he spent about 2 minutes checking my much loved companion, gave me the bad news, then ORDERED ME TO GO PAY THE BILL AND WAIT IN THE CAR. He WOULD NOT LET ME STAY in the room. I had to BEG even to take her body home! This haunts me to this day.

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Imajean Yuss
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Probably the biggest regret in my life was leaving the room just before we had to let our beautiful rottweiler go. I was sobbing and just didn't want my last image of him to be when he was dead. I wanted to remember him alive, but it was a HUGE mistake. I kick myself constantly for my selfishness. Thankfully my husband did the right thing and stayed with him, so he wasn't alone, but he was my boy and my best friend and I left him. I'm such an A*****E! He even tried to follow me as I left the room because he wanted to be with me. I told him to stay and that "I'd be back" and left. God I hate myself for this. It will never happen again.

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Janet Graham
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The first time i.remember an animal.death was at.age 6...a little dog brown.and white . Possibly a Jack Russell terrier..was hit by mail.truck delivering to our box..i was horrified..I kept starring at poor little thing laid out with blood coming out his mouth on street..no one claiming this angel ..never never got over it..and then my parents got divorced in 55 ..my mom wouldn't let us have pets in CT..till my sister brought home a black.persian kitten ..from school. She allowed us to.keep it..God I loved that besutiful.animal..about 3 yrs later I was 13 and cat started to get very weak .we took it to.a VET All 4.of us kids went for ride..the cat was diagnosed with.a kidney disorder. Needed blood transfusions ..my Mother told us the VET said no guarantee with transfusions it would live 2000.00 for costs...she left our cat to be euthanized no kitty rode back with us . I cried all way home..I wanted to believe the Vet made cat better and took it not killed it..he was a beautiful animal

cree69 avatar
cree
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my parents took my dog to the vet. If i would be there would be too hard to take it. Maybe selfish, but not all people are so strong to see lovely pet dying. Was already too hard to watch how every day she become weaker and weaker. It's already passed 8 years, still want to cry writing this

syhldayo avatar
Syhl Dayo
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

> First it is good to speak about that topic. > Then, to Jessi dietrich: if you say the truth with respect and aiming improvement, a broken heart is sometimes for some people the way thereto, which is better health; this should not be seen as something negative having to apologise for. >Last: IF owners are not been “trained to courage”, why don’t vet apply the option of a sedation while the owners are there, and then the deadly injection once the pet certainly is already sleeping, AND THEN THE OWNER CAN LEAVE, as for a surgery? This would truly spare stress to both; and is only a little bit more work for the vet: yes this would be more work, with the heart, a labour of love.

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Jl Li
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It was a cruel thing to say. I had to leave my cat in my vets care so he could try to save her. It breaks me every time I think of her looking for me just before she died surrounded by strangers and with ivs in her paw and smells that she didn't recognize. I couldn't be in the surgery room with her and I wish I had put her to sleep peacefully with me holding her . The regret will bother me for life.

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El-Ray King
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Look, HERE'S THE BOTTOM LINE. When your pet is dying, IT'S NOT ABOUT YOU. It's about THEM. So you sit beside them as the vet injects them, you put your head close to theirs, you give kisses, you tell them that they were the BEST BOY or the BEST GIRL EVER, you tell them you are going to miss them, and you THANK THEM for all the years of huge unconditional love and companionship they gave you. It hurts worse than anything. And you do it ANYWAY, and you do it GLADLY, and you have your heartbreak when they are gone, and you can feel s****y when they are gone. Leaving a pet to die alone is probably the most selfish thing a pet owner can do. That wasn't part of the goddamn deal. You take them on to take care of them; you take care of them until their last breath. PERIOD.

masterdiane avatar
Diane Master
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It was my final gift to my beloved dog to help her transition. She passed peacefully while the final injection was given. I would not have done this any other way. My gift for all the years of live and companionship she gave to me.

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Ok Mckenna
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My friend of 14 years wagged his tail while the vet gave him that final shot. I like to think he was saying "thank you". The vet had asked me what I would like to do and I told her that I would love my dog so much that I would like him to be treated how I would like to be treated. She asked me, How is that? and I answered that I would like to be put to sleep and end this suffering.

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Kronik Payne
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Our family has lost 3 treasured furry family members this year, all to cancer. Not only are we all embracing them at their final moment, but we pay the vet extra to come to our home, so they can be where they feel safe and comfortable for their final moments. The percentage stated here is truly shocking, and disheartening to say the very least. Do vets counsel their human guardians about how terrifying this must be for their pets? They must, I’d think. Very sad, deeply disturbing. I pledge to each animal in my life, that I’ll commit to them for their ENTIRE life, that’s the least I can do for these beautiful souls, who give so much to us in the way of unconditional love and adoration.

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Eli Lynch
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wanted to add also, some people are too mentally frail or physically frail to see their pet die in front of them. Every person is different. Yes. If you can, staying with them is ideal. But seeing a living thing die. Stop breathing. Stop moving at all is intense. Many people never witness any animal or person die. Usually their pet is the first death they have experienced. Dogs, cats ect can smell our emotions and see our slight body language. A very nervous owner makes the process harder on the animal. I would rather someone drop the pet off with a staff of people that loves animals so much they work with them. Rather than see another very old chronically sick stray left at the dog park. Judge all you want. But everyone is different about death. And if you have a veterinarian you like and trust, their staff should be respectful and kind. Also, your veterinarian should ALWAYS SEDATE before euthanasia. If your vet doesn't, GO TO ANOTHER VETERINARIAN.

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Ирина Чумак
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So, it means that if losing your child is even harder, it is okay to drop her off with a staff of people who love people so much they work with them? If not, then why is it okay to drop off a different family member?

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elilynch avatar
Eli Lynch
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree with the Veterinary staff that says this is a manipulative and cruel post. I was a veterinary technician for 20 years. I started work at a city run animal shelter. Many people just dump their sick pets and go at shelters. Or they just let them go in the woods/park. The reason we don't absolutely require owners to be in the room with the pet is to prevent this behavior. Many people can't face their own mortality let alone their beloved pet's. If we guilted every owner to be there they wouldn't bring them to us for humane care. My next point is...if those pets are awake when you give the euthanasia solution, you're a monster and a horrible vet. Every veterinarian does it slightly differently, but all the private practice vets I worked for sedated the pet, first. With the owner there and if the owner chose to stay they could. When we scheduled a euthanasia we asked if the owner wanted to be there. Why? So we knew to add time for that person to say bye & comfort.

cantbestopped788 avatar
Ola Polowczyk
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm sobbing. I had to put down my little furry friend half a year ago. I still cry every time I think of her. I loved her to the bottom of my heart. We had her for 14 years. At the end she was very sick and when she was being given drips, I was sitting on the floor with her, making sure she felt less scared. Didn't matter if it was at 1 AM or whatever hour. Even though at the end of her life she tried to bite me all the time and seemed to have hated me (I don't know the reason), I still can't imagine not being with her at her last moments. We went to the vet together (me and my parents) and were there with her till the very last moment. Our pets are with us their entire lives. We don't deserve them. We owe them this last favour.

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Ehren Thomsen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband and I hugged our dog Jimmy while the vet prepared him, gave him the injection and let him go only after the vet told us it was over. We had him since he was a little furry ball, and up until at 11 cancer won the battle. We hugged him and literally felt how life flew out of him. He kept his tail wagging up until the end.

kikkaio avatar
Kikka io
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Merlin was the great love of my life for 15 years. he did not leave my side even for a minute of day or night. the morning greeted me when I went to work and was waiting for me behind the door when I came back. if I took a step he would do it with me. last year a tumor ate a vertebrae before we met, and the vet said that to avoid unnecessary bullying would have been better to put him to sleep. he was in my arms all the time and fell asleep looking into my eyes as I caressed him and talked to him to reassure him. the last thing he saw was my eyes, and the last voice he heard was mine. I will be persecuted for the rest of my life by the pain that that last detachment caused me, but the thought that at the last moment of his life he knew he was loved immensely and not only repays all the pain I can feel or have tried .

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Shannon Donnelly
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a high school student I witnessed the end of a dog just as my volunteer hours ended. The way the vet treated the dog was horrific!!! And this was the vet my family had brought both our cats to. Other "pet parents" were coming in to see their dog, so the other dog had to be removed; but the disrespect for one family member over another had me not being able to step into another clinic for over a decade. When I took over care one of one of our family cats, she was the healthy one: when she got sick, I helped the vet pull fluid from her heart and quickly passed out after; I was devastated to learn that she had fought, and lost her battle without me with her, but that vet held her, and gave her the comfort I couldn't be there for (it was sudden). I held her during procedures, that made me literally faint. Because I would not let her go. My

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Betty Hyder
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have had to put two cats down, and I stayed in the room with each of them until their last breath. I am glad I did.

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angel love
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm glad that I stayed when our cat passed away. When we find death animals on the road we almost stop everytime and we put them aside, I always tell them to go to the Light.

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Marsha Gowan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

li had to euthanize my beloved cat after only 10 years. I didn't think I could stay until the end, but when we got to the vet I knew I had to stay. I laid his head on my shoulder and cradled him like a baby next to m y chest. I know he knew I was there, he knew my smell and my breathing. It was incredibly sad, but it wasn't about me, it was about him. it is the least we can do for our pets

angelarmstrong144 avatar
angel armstrong
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aw. I feel heart broken... 😭😭💔 This reminds me of my beautiful Jack Russell, Ruby, who died at the age of two. (She got hit by a car) 😢😢

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Cherie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We have a nice-sized tree where our first pet who died, a hamster named Pepsi, is buried. We have lovely perennial flowers and painted stones where two of our cats are buried. We stayed with them all to the very ends.

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porcupine
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This title was very misleading and the article was terribly upsetting. P**s-poor job, BP. And what kind of a*****e would leave their dog alone to be put down? You owe it to them to be there.

asperrated avatar
Asper Rated
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When a reasonable person signs on to having a pet, they should make the entire trip with them.

asperrated avatar
Asper Rated
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When a reasonable person signs on to having a pet. They should sign on for the entire trip.

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Loveyiii
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband and I do pet rescue, we have had some pets for many years and some hospice cases only a few months. We are with them in life and with them when it is time to say goodbye. It is not easy but we could not do it any other way. They will always be with us even in death. Each pet has given us more than we could ever give them. Each of them has been a precious gift.

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Tora Wookiee Macaw
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

From my dogs and cats, to my beloved Horses over the years, I've never once left any of my animals to be put down with just the vet and staff alone. I'd head them close or cradled their heads in my lap. Yes its damn hard. Yes it rips at one's soul. But personally, I'd never have it any other way when my very old, sick fur kids no longer enjoying that full on quality of life finally cross the rainbow bridge.

h_roon avatar
H. von Roon
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My best friend of 13 years left me while being cradled in my lap, in our home, while being looked in his eyes and told by my son and I how much he was the best boy in the whole world and was loved. He never saw the vet, or the needle, and he passed with a smile on his face and a look of absolute love. I write this with tears in my eyes 4 years later, and the only thing I would change about that day was if he could have been able to stay another 13 at least.

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Michèle Gyselinck
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There was one pet I had that was euthanized without my being there, and I regret it. For the others I was there and held their paw, and petted them. It's awful, but I'd rather have red eyes than regrets.

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Cinzia Sammarco
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I really don't understand. When the Vet had to put down my cats he anesthetized them and when they falled asleep he putted them down. I was with theme. Why you don't follow the same procedure?

h_roon avatar
H. von Roon
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My boy was 110 lbs and had given medications for 24 hours prior to "the time". He left this place in my arms, alert enough to know who his mamma and boy were as we held him and loved him. The only way to have anesthetize him further would have been an iv. I would not have preferred that, personally. I'm happy, through the tears, to know the last face he saw and the last voice that he heard telling him how much he was loved, was mine.

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Gillian Black
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i agree sorry about that you who disagree your pet has been your loyal companion and then you leave that at the hardest time no way I have held, cried ,lay down with them, and even had the Vet come to my home so they have felt comfortable, they were my babies and they deserve the love you have for them till the end,

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Annasue Marczynski
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a conversation with my vet about this very thing. She said that when people are terribly upset, it often upsets the pet. In those situations it is actually better for the pet if the owner is not there. The vet and techs can offer the animal love and calmness, the owner may just make the death that much more difficult. Know your pet and know yourself, what is right for the pet is #1.

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Richard Owen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to have my beloved Jack put to sleep, we stayed with him, vets need to tell owners their eyes won’t close, not even if you try and help them, that was really difficult to find out, after the job was done :(

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Natalie Kirman
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My beautiful russian dwarf hamster Hammi died in my arms when it was his time to go, he was so gentle, sweet and affectionate. I buried him next to my favourite tree in the garden and daffodils now grow where he was buried, I miss him every day.

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Natalie Kirman
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My beautiful russian dwarf hamster Hammi died in my arms, he was so gentle, sweet and affectionate, he was buried next to my favourite tree in the garden and daffodils now grow where he was buried, I miss him every day.

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Angie Chan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a vet come to my home and put my corgi down in my arms. It was heartbreaking, but he deserved to leave happy and comfortable. My parents were bewildered, as they typically got rid of pets as they aged--and no one ever had a pet put down in their presence. I explained that he deserved to go in the arms of the human he clearly loved--and it made everyone sad, as they never considered such a thing.________________________ On a comical note, I decided to carry his body from the house--picturing a dignified exit from the house in the arms of his human. ...it had all the dignity of Weekend at Bernie's. He was a large corgi, and I couldn't control his limp head easily. I clumsily walked him out the door, hitting things along the way, with the vet tech trying to keep a small shroud over his face. We walked out to a small boy standing on the sidewalk, looking at what was essentially a funeral procession for a dead dog, vet tech still trying to keep the shroud on his face.

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Alice Jena
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to hold too many of my beloved pets in their last hours. Anyone notice that dogs seem to rarely die at home? Cats seem to be about 50/50 as to where they spend their last minutes. When I had to have my greyhounds euthanized (bone cancer & spleen mass,) I always said into their ear: "YOU WON THE RACE!" I didn't yell it; as the caps appear. But they were both rescued from track racing & I thought they might like to hear that.

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Glenn Turnley
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would encourage anyone to arrange for your vet to come to you and your pet's home to perform the euthanasia. Sure it will cost more, but it is far less stressful for your loved pet, and you. If you are able, a garden grave is a respectful way to remember your departed pet too.

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

http://dogpage.mcf.com/misc/TributeToTheDog.html This was originally posted on k9-l by dennisr Senator Vest's "Tribute to the Dog" Go to the website to view the entire Tribute. Death Valley Day (You Tube), Ronald Regan played the Senator in this story When HE had Adam name all of the creatures He created, only 1 was not named by Adam. GOD himself named this 4 legged creature and He named it after His name, spelled backwards, Dog.

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

WHERE TO BURY A DOG But there is one place that is best of all...If you bury him in this spot, the secret of which you must already have, he will come to you when you call - come to you over the grim, dim frontiers of death, and down the well - remembered path, and to your side again. And though you may call a dozen living dogs to heel, they shall not growl at him, nor resent his coming, for he is yours and he belongs there. People may scoff at you, who see no lightest blade of grass bent by his footfall, who hear no whimper pitched too fine for audition, people who never really have had a dog. Smile at them, for you shall know something that is hidden from them, and which is well worth knowing. The one best place to bury a dog is in the heart of his master, his best friend. AUTHOR UNKNOWN:

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A Dogs Prayer ending: Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it 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, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest---and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands." Every MONDAY night animal lovers around the globe at 7Pm light a candle and say a prayer for HIS animal friends and yours too. PAX+

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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 upon 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. Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper. Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry,

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can tell you I have always been there for each of my dogs and cats when they needed the vet to help them to the Rainbow Bridge. My brother Al died 9.17.16 (yes 2 yrs on Monday), Lil Alberta died 2 weeks later she was 18 yrs old in my arms no vet, her sister Diana died on Thangsgiving day in my arms, no vet, her brother Francis died on Xmas Day in my arms, their brother Matthew died NY Day in my arms no vet, Dingo the last brother died on VD day in my arms. They had bad hearts, deaf, blind, but they were eating, drinking, doing their duty. I lost Al';s cat in June and 20 yr old Curly died in my arms 8/19 and his sister Coco died 9.11.18. their hearts just gave out, again blind, deaf and bad hearts. It hurts sure but no pet should ever have to face a vet or death without you being there for them. I know it is hard, hardest thing except to hold you father in your arms as he dies. GOD gives us pets, esp. dogs a special kind of love, undying love for their humans.

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Anna Salerno
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is without a doubt one of the most heart breaking things I have ever read! I have already decide to stay with all of my beloved pets until the end. My throat is choked and my eyes are tearing as I type this.

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Marylou Sakosky
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My shirt is soaked from tears..You are so right. My Sable died in my arms and i would never chg that moment for a million. And would spend more than that to have more time , as i keep my 11 yr old chihuahua Rocky and Sable's son Smokey also 11 here with me longer. I will be there no matter how or where or when. I have arrangements for my parting too!! and that is really secure feeling. Really was ,truth on real family and real friends as you would be shocked who you thought we ''all dogs and cats..and when it came to signing something...well. I love animals..they wag tails...not tongues .Mankind..i love just cannot stand people e1b88fa24c...0436ba.jpg e1b88fa24c4235cc62a15aaf274797ba-5b9d8f60436ba.jpg

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Mesmer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've never left any of my critters alone at the end, and I never will. I can't imagine doing it.

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Nadine Elizabeth Gibbons
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have had to have pets euthanised and I have had pets killed on the road, but the hardest pet death was when we came home to find out shetland sheep dog who had died of old age (18) on our lawn. I knew his time was near but did not realise it was so close. Then a week later we got news from the ranger they had found one of our cats - our sheltie's constant companion killed onthe road behind us. I thik he had gone looking for the dog. Thank goodness for registering our cat and microchipping him because we were able to bring him home and bury them together.

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Abby Rexroth
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my pug Gadget was very ill, 13 years, blind, deaf and diabetic. I knew the most loving thing was to let her go. I was right in her face as they gave her the injection. I was the last thing she saw as her last breath left her body. She was a sweet girl who deserved to have that peace.

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Gloria Hafner
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I stayed with my husband, a friend, my pets when they all passed. Apparently hearing is the last sense to go when dying, so I kept talking to them. It was an honor to thank them for all the love they gave me. I would have gladly given my blood, organs to keep them all alive, but in the end, all I could give was my final proclamation of love.

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Suzana Correa
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would NEVER ever, ever, leave my boy alone in his last moments. Omg, I can’t even think about it. It’s the only thing positive about him dying before me: knowing that I will be looking deeply into those big brown eyes, stroking his head and whispering to him how much I love him as he takes his last breath.

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Caroline Driver
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I felt bad and now feel bad all over again that I left my cat when she was put down. I made the mistake of looking back over my shoulder as I left and she was standing at the edge of the table with a where are you going? look on her face. I worked in a vet's as a 16 y/o and saw several animals put down, even assisted with one. I thought I would have been okay but it was different when it was my own cat. I should have stayed. I can't change that I didn't.

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Kelley Eidem
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a powerful thread! Two people recently said my cat needed to be put down because he had organ failure and/or cancer. He had the telltale reddish tint on his fur which comes from an enzyme in their mouth that they lick onto the fur. He also was barely eating and limping severely. But I had a couple inventions up my sleeve. The inventions can only be described as being out of a Star Trek episode although they don't shoot out visible beams and need to be used close to the person or the pet's body. I used a jerry-rigged version that isn't as powerful as the real model will be. It's called a Whirling Bliss Machine. The name has already been Trademarked approved for an earlier version that had to be scrapped due to patent issues. But keep your eye out in the next couple of months. The Machine does extraordinary things. Just this one thing sounds like, "Yeah, right" & I understand that sentiment. So just remember the name because sooner or later you'll discover that it's all true.

awthrawthr avatar
Kelley Eidem
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Didn't have room to mention that Snowman has resumed eating and his reddish tint is gone except for a tiny amount near his paws. He has also stopped limping. He is eating maybe 2/3rds of what he used to eat at this point.

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Maria Ines Molina
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to put down my 15-year-old cat a month ago. Staying with him until the end was truly heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. I'm feeling lost without him. Having 3 other wonderful and loving cats is a lot of comfort, but he was my special boy and he came into my life when I was battling (and losing to) depression, so he saved me, that's what I think. Throughout my life I've had to say goodbye to many dogs and cats. I'd never leave them alone at such a time, even though I understand that it may be unbearable for some people.

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Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I remember when our dog had cancer, and it was time to put him to sleep--he had started to feel pain and my dad, who was a doctor, told us that would be the kindest thing we could do was to put him to sleep since pain meds weren't helping. I remember that after the doctor had given him the shot, he looked at the both of us, let out a howl as if to say goodbye, sank to the table and in a couple of minutes, he was gone. I am convinced he knew what was happening and was grateful that we were freeing him from the pain. It's been fifty-five years, but I remember as if it was yesterday. If I am ever able to have a pet again (my wife has lots of allergies), I would never leave him or her to die alone with strangers. I will be there for them. They give us so much love and happiness that being there with them in their last moments is the very least we can do for them.

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Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I remember when our dog had cancer and it was time for him to be put for sleep. We stayed in the room with him. On some level, he knew what was happening and he looked right at my mum and me, let out a howl as if to say good bye, then sank to the table and a couple of minutes later, he was gone. It's been over 50 years, but I remember that. I'm glad my mum and I were there so that those he loved were with him at the end. If I ever have a pet again, there is no way I would leave him or her to cross over alone. They give us so much love and I could never let them die alone.

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Natalie Jarnstedt
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I cannot imagine NOT being with any of our animals when it's time for euthanasia! I have always held them until the tranquilizer took affect, and then through euthanasia, which takes a few seconds or so. I will never understand anyone who just drops off their animals, leaving them to die alone. Are they unfeeling cowards, too sensitive (whatever that means), squeamish, or just plain uncaring?

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Sushi Sashimi
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why do we as a society think euthanasia is okay? I understand pain meds of course, but why kill them? Why not spend those last moments, hours or days loving them? Why not let it happen naturally? Maybe that is the selfish part, not wanting to deal with the process?

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Sushi Sashimi
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Unless a horrible accident and great pain, why do we"put them down" anyway. Why not let life take its course naturally. It sort of bothers me to think we have the right to say when a living thing dies.

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Margaret Fitzgerald
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had two sick, senior cats that had to be "put down." For the first one, my sister went with me, and she held me while I held my cat. I cried so much, but I told my how much I loved her. It was especially heart=breaking when I could feel her body go limp from the drug. :'( The other cat was a cat I was looking after which had a terminal illness. My best friend went with me, and once again, she held me while I held the cat. I would never leave my dear pets, or any animal if I could help it, to die alone.

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Andrew Keane
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When the last family dog that I grew up with passed away he had been rushed to a vet by my Dad when half the family was away, including me. It was painful for me to not be there, but I was glad someone was there that he knew. It was just a week before Christmas, so it was a bittersweet one without him.

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David Herz
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is great...our lovely cat of fourteen years died at home but wanted to be ALONE, she walked off to another part of the apartment and died by herself. On the other hands if you put your pet's end in someone else's hands it seems only logical that they might be looking out for you. My mother in law's dog wandered off into the woods to die alone as well. It's a very personal experience.

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Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some people also seem to want to die alone. When I worked for hospice in San Francisco, there were several times when a person waited until loved ones were out of the room to die.

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Mae Mosse
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I couldn’t stay with my 23yr old Siaman cat. My sister was with her so she wasn’t alone. I was in the waiting room blacking out and bawling my eyes out. I have a medical condition where if I get stressed I have blackouts and I did not want to have them in the room with my furbaby and take the vets attention away from her and onto me. I don’t class that as being selfish. I held her in my arms all the way home and placed her in the velvet lined wooden coffin that my dad had made for her with her blanket and the bear she always cuddled with. I visit her grave in the garden everyday. The vet who said it was selfish really needs to understand that sometimes it is beyond the persons control. I would have been there for Sheba if I could. But she wasn’t alone.

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somnomania
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can understand not wanting to be in the room, but sometimes in life we have to do things we don't want to, for the sake of others. I know it's hard to be there when they die when you already had to make the decision to let them go, but do it for them. Animals have emotions and memories and attachments to people just like we do, and to abandon them at the end to spare yourself additional grief is... not rude, but callous. Be grateful you can be there for their last moments, instead of finding them already dead and wondering forever if there was something you could have done. I came home on Valentine's Day this year after dropping my mom off at a car rental place, and went to feed our cats their daytime meal and found our eldest dead under her bed. I was torn up about it for three days, dwelling on how he might have only died after we left the house, and there was no one around for him but the other cats (who he didn't get along with). Be grateful, and stay with them until the end.

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Tecolote
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get why people feel upset about this...but shaming people who don't stay is a horrible thing to do. My friends Denise and Mike lost their dog Duchess recently. Their dog Tzar is still around thank god. When Duchess died Mike couldn't stay in the room, he fell apart and almost had a break down. Luckily Denise was able to hold it together to stay there at the end. But if she wouldn't have been able to stay either, that wouldn't have made her (or Mike) a bad person. They are both wonderful & loving and adored her immensely. Not everything is so black and white.

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Patti Weaks
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have had to put down 2 dogs in my life so far. After holding the first on while he passed I swore I would never do it again, it was just too hard. But when I had to put down the second one 20 years later I just couldn't let her die alone. I held her until she took her last breath. I do believe that it should be up to the owner on how they can handle it, and should not have to feel guilty for their decision.

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Marta Kęska
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

90%...? omg. omg...! I just CANNOT imagine NOT being there for my pet when their time has come...

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ThanosNation
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hello we are in urgent need of animal dog food for our animal shelter because it has run out, with the money we will be able to feed them with 3 tons of dog food that can last for the next 6 months. Any support will have our eternal gratitude https://gogetfunding.com/help-us-buy-dog-food/

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R john
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dog Archie had an enlarged heart (ironic, since I have only seen him loving everyone he would meet) and every time he felt uncomfortable, he would search for me. I would at that moment hold him, pacify him. It's been three years and I still can't seem to forget the fact that he died in my arms, but I am glad that when he knew he was going away, I was there.

luyendao avatar
Lu
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some folks just aren’t ready to face the death of a loved one, the time to prepare is while we or they are still alive. Death is a part of living, helping our loved ones have a peaceful mind when they go is the ultimate final act of love. It’s so important.

mcathenae avatar
MCathenaE
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have been with every pet I have ever had to have euthanized. I worked in a vet clinic for years & assisted the vets in euthanasia in both animals I knew well & animals I had just met. I have cried at every single one. I read this post yesterday. I HAD A DREAM LAST NIGHT WHERE I LOST MY LAST DOG ALL OVER AGAIN. I held my current dog in my arms while dreaming of losing my last dog. It hurt just as bad. I woke up feeling like I had been crying all night only to cry for real. My heart hurt all over again & I have been raw all day. In the 5+ years that I worked in a vet clinic, I do not remember an owner just dropping their animal off for a euthanasia. Every single owner stayed with their pet. When the pet wasn't nessicarly owned but part of a rescue, the foster would be there. So screw anyone who would drop of their best friend & screw this person for posting this & making me loose my old man all over again.

mwhite368 avatar
Michelle White
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my little boy passed I never left him by himself my arms were around him to the last breath. I would have never forgiving myself if I had left him without seeing my face in those little brown eyes. I was devastated over his passing. Mo mo.

theresawerner avatar
Theresa Werner
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm sorry but I don't understand why other vets would be upset about an honest post. I was abroad when my dog had to be put down. Eventhough I appreciate that my parents decided to not prolong her suffering by waiting for my return. The fact that I couldn't be with her during her last moments still hurts me. She looked for me and most dogs are oblivious to other people, it is their people they need. I'm sure most vets try the best they can to support them but this is no substitute for your presence. It nearly kills you, but you will get through it. Don't have regrets like I do...

midnageno avatar
Midna Geno
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dog Myles was put down in May of 2018. We stayed with him though. I bawled my eyes out, didn't care if people judged me, Myles was like my little brother. I'll never forget him.

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Mark Grudzinski
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This really hits close to home because we just put our beloved border collie to sleep on Tuesday. My wife held her and I was by her side. Our malamute sat next to us looking on. How could people be so insensitive and uncaring? Oh yeah, because lots of people suck.

magrudzinski avatar
Mark Grudzinski
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This really hits close to home since we had to put our beloved border collie to sleep on Tuesday. My wife held her as she received the injections, her malamute "little" brother by her side, me at my wife's side. How could people be so insensitive? Because a lot of people suck.

elizabethlordcary avatar
Elizabeth
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My last dog Jake died in my arms at the vet, I held him long after he stopped breathing, it was one of the hardest things I've ever done and I don't regret a second of it. For most of us our pets are just with us for a relatively short time, but for them we are everything. We need to respect and cherish them.

kellyharrold avatar
Kelly Harrold
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Shame on you. As others have stated, you don't know what people have gone through or why it is they're unable to stay in the room. My vet is a wonderful human being who I not only trust with my animals lives, but my own. She is sweet and caring and love my boys as well. She would give them the shot to put them to sedate them and then give them the real shot. My boys were so sick in the end, they were used to having treatments and needles poking them. There is no reason to post this and make people feel gut-wrenching guilt about their decisions of the past, present or future.

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Elaine Barricklow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I took my springer spaniels bed with me. She laid on it on the vets table with me holding her in my arms under her head as the vet injected her. She had her smells around her and my touch rubbing her ear until she crossed the rainbow bridge.

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Sharon Dryden
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would never leave mine at the end, they give you so much while they are here and its the least an owner can do at the end. At the time you have to think about the pet no matter how difficult it is for you, I have held all my animals at the end even though my heart was breaking each time, but after I know I did the right thing that I was the last face and the last voice they heard before they went to sleep.

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Jenny Lee
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cat Biscuit (11) passed away four years ago from kidney failure. I hired a vet to come to our home to ease him in to his next life. He died on his favorite spot on the bed, while I nuzzled his head and whispered over and over "I love you", until he was gone.

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Marko Žilić
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dog was beaten to death when i was about 14. I screamed in agony for hours and cried for weeks. My parents buried her in a nearby park but didn't want to show me where she is. Never had the courage to adopt another one.

shroomy9 avatar
Joe Sauer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've had to multiple dogs put to sleep and as much as it hurt, I was glad I was the the last person they seen when they went.

anita_fox2 avatar
Anita Fox
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had my elderly cat put to sleep due to an illness she couldn’t be saved and the vet said he would give her the ROLLS ROYCE TREATMENT. I had asked what was that and it was to give her a needle to sedate her and then do the euthanasia needle. That way she wouldn’t struggle for them attempting to tie a band around her leg then to find a vein. My by beautiful girl fell asleep peacefully in my arms and I recommend that sedating first is the best way

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Kesyra
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't really expect that anyone who reads this comment is guilty of leaving their pets on their last moment but I have to vent because I keep coming back to this post and it bothers me. I have never heard of people leaving their pets when the time comes. Where I come from you will stay with them while they cross. It's called the responsibility of a pet owner because when you get a pet, you know very well that in most cases they will pass before you and if you can't bare to do your last duty as the owner and be with them when they die or at least make sure someone they know is going to be with them when they die, then you should reconsider getting a pet. When I held my dying dog in my arms it felt like my heart was ripped straight out of my chest and squeezed dry but I wouldn't have missed the moment for anything in the world because when I held them for the first time ever I made a promise to be there on our last moment, too.

marinarios avatar
Marina Rios
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The amazing vets at Burnham Park animal hospital in Chicago came to my house on the very day I called and put my old baby down peacefully, in his home, surrounded by family. After, we took his body there to get cremated. But he never had to leave his favorite spot.

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Eunice Probert
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have always been with my cats and hens when they were at their last moments. It's horribly sad, but it's the last thing one can do while they slip away. I do believe it honours them and the love and companionship we had together. And yes, I wrote hens. I have had a couple of hens who had to put down and I held them. The only two furry and feathery members of our family that I was not present with them at death, was because they died in their sleep.

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Alusair Alustriel
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ok, scrolled down cause I cry like hell. I was holding my cat in my arms when he was being put down and I remember the vet told me that "He's falling asleep now, so you can leave him on the table." I thought I would hit het in the face. How could I LEAVE him there alone?! It broke me, my heart and soul to say goodbye, but I cried only when I got out of the room. I stayed strong for him and he went away being loved and hugged. It's been 16 years. Still hurts like hell.

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Captain Marvel
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What the heck...? It's not about YOU. For gods sake, they have been there for you every second of their precious lives, trusted you, loved you, worshipped you. And when they are lying, dying and weak, on their deathbeds it's not. About. You. The very, very least you can do to repay them for their undying loyalty is be there with them, stroke them, hold them. It shouldn't be a choice to leave them alone to die. Would you leave a relative alone to die? Would YOU like to be left alone, in your final moments, when you needed your loved ones the most? No. You would not. And pets are not any different.

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Sandra Sanynka
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is so sad ... I was here for my girl and even half an hour after her dead I didn't want to leave the room. Honestly, I had to drive the vet's street to go to the work every day after and every single day during several months, I wanted to go in and check, if she is not inside ...

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Ryan Paigey
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to put my car down recently, and the vet kept telling me I could go at any point, but I wanted to stay until the very end. I’d rather be there and know she went peacefully while I petted her for the last time after 14 years of companionship than not.

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Hans Lim
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's the hardest moment when you need to give them the last kiss. I will never forget that pair of eyes.

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Azure Adams
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All of my dogs died naturally at home and three cats I had to put down at the vets office. I held each one of my kitties the whole time. As for the vets who are shaming people for supposedly guilting people for not staying with their pets, well shame on you for not educating pet owners about the importance of being there for the family member they claim to love so much. Who are any of you to just let them off the hook! If my vet was anything like you guys are I would immediately find a new one and severely chastize that vet hard!

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Xiaoting Zhu
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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RJ Oliver
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I understand some people can't emotionally handle it and I won't judge them for it. I, however, have been there for my babies, holding, petting, talking to them. When I take an animal in it's for life, sadly death is part of life.

intinstr avatar
Debba Robinson
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I still feel guilt for my dog, Crispit. He was the first dog that I had as an adult. When the time came to let him go, my vet told me it would be better if I just dropped him off.. My last sight of him was as I walked away and they led him to another room, he looked over his shoulder at me with sadness in his eyes. To this day I still cry over my decision to do what the vet recommended. I had been with my childhood pets when they made that journey and so I don't know why I let this doctor convince me to do something different. I try to forgive myself - but after almost 30 years, I still grieve for leaving him without my loving arms around him for his last breath. I'm SO sorry, Crispit.

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Kevin Donegan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just had to put my dog, Dawson, a 15 year old Cairn Terrier, down while I was at my home in Mexico. Every pet I've had to put down I am there with them, scratching their ear, telling them they were perfect in every way and that I loved them more than myself. I brought him to the pet crematorium myself. It breaks my heart to think that a pets' last sight is of a vet they barely know. I'm crying as I write this it is so painful.

katie-trondsen avatar
KT Trondsen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is truly horrid. I had no idea this was a commonly done thing. I have always been in the room when my pet has needed to be put down. it has been heart breaking, and i cried many times but I would never waste those last precious moments with them, and I wanted them to know that they were loved to the very bitter end.

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Panda Panda
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When time comes for me to hold her while she leaves, they're gonna need to dig two holes.

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Jim Reilly
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They have 2 shots they can give them. the first renders them unconscious, the second puts them to sleep.

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LoneWolfie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm crying so hard right now TT^TT this broke my heart! If I ever have a pet put down, I will hold them the whole time.

jamielittleflower avatar
Jamie Fiorito
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I lost my Desi (18 year old grey tabby cat) last week. I took her to the vet and I held her while they did it, whispering to her that I loved her. I felt like I was betraying her, tbh. But it was the right thing to do. I would never have left her for that. It was one of the hardest moments of my life, but I hope it made it a little easier for her.

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Michael McGee
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Last year we had to put down our 12 y.o. rescue dog Boo, the sweetest little dog I've ever met. She was blind. She depended on us for everything. But we couldn't stop her from aging. We would never have dreamed of letting the vet put her to sleep without us being there to comfort her to the end. We wanted to stay with her as she breathed her last. We cried. The vet cried. I have tears writing this. But Boo passed with us comforting her until the end. How heartless would you have to be to leave a dog alone at the vet to be put down?

artidoane avatar
Arti Doane
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Have gone through this many many times since I own many many animals, would never dream of leaving them alone. Still cry for so many lost friends.

nikkid avatar
Nikki D
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I gotta call BS on this one. 90% is almost ALL owners, yet I have never met a person who didn't stay with their pet until the end. Now, any number is too high, but this is ridiculous!

shauna_carey avatar
Shauna Carey
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A few years ago I said goodbye to my bf Thalia. She was a beautiful tuxedo with tons of personality. Her life was cut short by an unknown illness, and I made the painful decision, with vet advice, to put her down. It was the hardest day of my life, but I cradled her like a baby while the vet administered the injection. She passed peacefully in my arms. She stuck by me during heartache, loneliness, moving and so many celebrations. Comforting her to the very end, even though I was a hot mess, was the least I could do for her years of love and friendship.

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Grumble O'Pug
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Always with mine when they have to go to the bridge. Heartbreaking and hard, but I can't imagine doing any other way. I think the best quote, to paraphrase, is that I have the rest of my life to be all f****d up and dramatic, but I need to put it away and be there for them.

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BetsyB
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm afraid to even take mine in after I worked at a clinic. Even the time it takes to put the catheter in is too stressful for some cats. When the time comes I'm going to do ny best to ensure that it's a home visit & that he never leaves my sight.

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Ann Jeppesen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Fortunately I've only had to put one dog down. It was the toughest decision I've ever made. I hold him in my arms and he had his head on my lab as he slowly fell asleep and eventually died. I couldn't see anything for tears, but he felt safe up until he died. Worst day of my life.

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Liz Llanes
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I never leave my dog when she is sick or near death...i comfort him and says its okay to go and thank my beloved pet for being with me trough thick and thin ..i love them and and up to now i still miss my pets...

guanzonliz avatar
Liz Llanes
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have experience that already but i never ever left my dog when he is sick and near dying...i comfort him saying its okay to go and i thank my beloved pet for being with me through thick and thin...i love them very much a d up to now i still miss tbem so much...and i know they are happy in heaven now❤❤❤

piposa40 avatar
Rocío García
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm glad to read this because is what I thought when I had to put my dog down. I didn't want her to be alone in that moment even knowing that this will be one of my memories of her. It will always hurt but I don't regret it. But I also know not everybody can do it, my father was there too and he couldn't and there is nothing wrong in that.

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Jodi Ellis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This story is hitting home hard for my husband and myself. We have just scheduled the date for our beloved "Mama" to be euthanized. The great service our vet provides is coming to our house to take her to her final place. We both want our dog to remember our house and our faces when she leaves us. As the date draws nearer, it is going to be hard, however, we know her living the life she is right now is not the best. We will both be there to the end with her and would not have it any other way. We love her dearly! As I am crying writing this because I know she has only 8 more days left.

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Liz Sahlin Johansson
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It wouldn’t cross my mind to leave my friend, a creature that only given me love for years - no human have done that - been there truely “in sickness and health, sorrow and joy”, leave him/her to die alone in a room filled with smells from other visitors in pain and fear and had most certainly not been my friends favorite place either!!! To leave would be the ugliest betrayal I could do and I should lose the right to ever again take me a new one!!! But that’s just how I think...

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Denise Melek
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I worked at an emergency vets office and thankfully never witnessed that.To see an old man cradle his cat and speak to him while he fell asleep, a big muscular man cry like a baby when he let his dog go, people who tried to hold back their tears and left the office broken and couples who held their animal in the míddel broke my heart. But they always stayed.

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devi L.
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This hit me hard. But now I am aware of what I need to do whenever that time comes.

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JJ Zinn
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Seriously? I have never left the room when my animals were put down. I held them and stayed with them. Kissing them and telling them how good they were and that I love them.

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Kristy LeAnn
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know a lot of vets are willing to do horrible things like cutting the vocal cords of dogs just so they'll be quiet and declawing cats, so I find it hard to believe it when vets say animals don't search for their owners when they're dying. If they had a loving bond with their owner why wouldn't they? I wouldn't guilt someone that felt like they genuinely couldn't handle being there for it but personally, I would never leave a pet to face death alone just like I wouldn't leave a person I love to face death alone either. But that's just me.

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Kjorn
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

as much it would be hard when i'd put my dog to sleep it would be my responsability to be there.

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Michelle Watler
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have never and would NEVER leave my pet when I had to put them down. It's the worst part of being a pet owner but I could never leave them to pass with strangers. Suck it up and be there for them!!

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Ian Carter
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

wow is this even a thing? I lost my dear Springer Jimmy 3 years ago to inoperable cancer, we had to put him to sleep and it was the hardest thing I have ever done but after a morning spent playing in his favourite place and lots of treats at the vets I held his head as the injection went in, he drifted off into a comfortable slow sleep, I immediately left the room and lost it big time BUT his last moments was with his dad like always. RIP boy

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Sean Katz
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my beloved tomcat, who we had lived together with for seventeen and a half years, had cancer and there was nothing left we could have done to make him better, we called the vet emergency service. A vet came to our house and did what had to be done in our living room and my sweet little friend died in my arms.

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EllieKaan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My sister works for Animal Services (the pound) for south florida / Miami. It is unbelievable the amount of animals that get sent to be put down by their owners just because they're old or sick and they don't want to deal with it. They won't even go in the room. I'm talking about a huge percentage. Sometimes the facility refuses to put them down and finds them homes. Some people have no hearts or souls. Pets have feels too and they love you no matter what. They beg for their owners to take them back and they turn around and not one f**k is given. I hate people.

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lazy panda
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cat, Baby, is 15.5 years old. She has been a part of my life even longer than any of my grandparents. I know that she is going to leave us but I cannot imagine leaving her to pass on her own.

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Shana
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

About 9 years ago, we had to put my brother's dog to sleep. We (my brother, sis-inlaw and I) sat around Lothar (the dog) on the ground, holding and petting him while the vet did everything. 3 months ago, one of my cats suddenly passed away at home while I held her. Heartbroken and crying (during both times) but it never crossed my mind to leave them alone. Didn't know so many people would leave their pets during that moment. But I guess I do understand a bit, it sucks, it's terrible, we all wish our pets would live forever but sadly, their time will come one day too. And it hurts to watch them go.

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SweetMamaP
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My youngest cat (she was 8 years young) passed away at home recently. It was our first pet death and we didn't know it. She started crying out and when I checked on her, she was having seizures. But I didn't know that the end was near, so gave her some privacy for the seizing to pass. She had been rapidly declining due to feline cancer so the crying and the seizures were sort of "normal". We had scheduled her final vet visit in a few days, but she was ready to leave and she did. I still feel bad that I wasn't right by her side in her last moments, even though she was home and on her favorite bed. My husband and I always said that we would be with all the pets in their final moments. We could not imagine leaving them alone at the end.

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Rit
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't know what to think about this. When my cat got hit by a car and had to be put down, I actually WANTED to be with him. But the vet told me to wait outside because I would only scare him and make it harder for him to let go. So that's what I did and it was so heartbreaking to hear him meow from the other side of the door. But in that moment I had to trust the vet and do what he said was best for my poor baby and not for me. After reading this I really don't know what's right or wrong. I still wish I had been in there with him. T_T

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Louiiiise
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I stayed with every pet I've had in their final moments since I'm an adult. Of course it's hard, so what? Would you like your close ones leaving your side just before you draw your last breath? I don't think so. Accompany them in their last moments is the least we can do for them, and also to be strong for them, I usually keep the tears fir later and focus on soothing, reassuring them. I consider it an honour and a duty. And it taught me a lot about dealing with death.

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namjoonie_ k
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just can`t imagine leaving any of my lovelies alone at their last moment. I had to put down my beloved cat Timothy just two years ago, when he suddenly fell sick and despite our best efforts, it just wasn`t something, that could be cured with a pill... I`ll forever remember those last heartbreaking moments and no matter how hard it was to see it all with my own eyes, I`m truly glad, that at his last moment he was at home and with me by his side.

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Weim Central
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As sad as the story is - it makes me happy how many of these posts refer to "my baby", "my girl" or "my kids"!

alecstar23 avatar
Alec
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

WTF?!?! Who would leave them like that? Unfortunately I've had to put some of my kids to sleep, but when that time came I called the vet, arranged for a house visit, and held them until the end. It was the least I could do.

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Linouchka 99
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It never occurred to me that a petowner could actually do this ! If I had to put a beloved pet down, I would ask to hold it in my arms first and the injection made only after my baby is calm and comforted. I had a cat die on my belly at night in my sleep, and the only thing that helped me grieve was that he was in his favorite place with his favorite person, surrounded by my love. He was my baby, it's been over fifteen years and I still miss him...

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Aneese
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would NEVER leave any animal alone to die. EVER. It is inhumane and cruel. WE need to stop putting our feelings first and stop being the pitiful, selfish, self-centered people this world has produced. I held my baby Toast in my arms, I stroked her ears and under her chin, her favorite spots, and told her I loved her and she was beautiful and the best babygirl I ever had, all the same sweet things I told her every day so that she could relax into her nap like she did every day except this time she would not wake up in pain or struggle to breathe. It was the hardest thing I ever had to do. But I did it to honor her life and thank her for the wonderful years she gave me as a comforting companion and a million laughs. When she looked up at me that one last time, she looked at me with love and calm. It is one of the things I hold close to my heart. Yes the grief is heart breaking, but you will get past it. And now I have two more delights in my life to share love with.

fedup_1 avatar
Kathy Renbarger
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm SO sick & tired of the "special snowflakes," who believe the world revolves around "their feelings...." {rolling my eyes in disgust} Yes, having to take a beloved fur-kid to the vet to end their suffering IS heart-breaking; but, a LOT of things in life ARE difficult! Your fur-baby got you through a lot of those hard times; &, you OWE IT TO THEM to be there for them, when they need you the most! SUCK IT UP! Personally, I don't even leave my fur-kids alone for surgeries. If a vet won't allow that, I find a different vet! I don't feel ONE BIT badly about guilting folks who are so self-centered that they let ANYONE - 2 or 4-legged - who had shown love & devotion to them, to make that transition without their being there for them. If they're so fragile, perhaps they should stick to STUFFED animals??? At the VERY LEAST, have the vet give them that pre-op shot that knocks them out in just a few minutes; &, stay with them through THAT process, before they're taken them back for the other 1

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Ladies and Gentlemen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Bruno died in arms when I was 11 year old, I wept for Bruno, I dug the grave, I put him to the rest, I put flowers where Bruno now lay. He never left my side for every second of my 11 year life, I couldn't leave him too for any second. Bruno was love, Bruno is with me.

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Maci Wilcox
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dog Keesha was put down when I was 11 as well, and my entire family stayed in the room. I hugged her the whole time and refused to leave the room until I was 100% sure she was gone. Rest in peace Keesha and Bruno :(

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Kiahna
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This really hits home. When my dog Max was sick, my dad took him to the vet and left him there. I asked him if he stayed with Max, but he said that he just left. I was heartbroken. I went out to my other dog Rosco and promised him that I would never leave. I promised that I would stay with him to the end.

kwill04 avatar
Kiahna
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can't. I can't do this. I commented 3 hours ago and I can't stop thinking about this post. About how many dogs are betrayed by their owners every year, and I can't stand it. I don't think I have ever been this affected by something on the internet EVER. And I have never forgiven my dad for leaving Max in that place. Never have, never will. It's the hardest truth of them all. You never want to hear it, but we need to be there for our loyal companions, even when we don't want to.

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Doodlebug
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have been with my father, my stepmother, and now my mother when all three of them died, and kissed each of them on their cold foreheads before I left their sides forever. My brother was there for none of that. I'm not upset or mad at him for that. I just feel sorry for him, because it's clear he's not as strong as he pretends to be. Some people are just not mentally or emotionally equipped to deal with death and dying.

diane1atk avatar
diane a
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i cared for my mother for the last months of her life and it is the thing i am most proud of in my own life. There were numerous false alarms when I thought "this is it" to the point of getting family there to "say goodbye" only for her to revive a couple of hours later. I thought she had passed away several times on my watch in her last 2 weeks in her own home. the last few hours of her life were peaceful - me and my brother holding each hand - waiting for every breath to be the last. Due to staff shortages at the local Dr Office it was 8 hours befor a Dr could come out and issue a death certificate. I used that time to make my mum presentable, as she would have liked. I used her favorite body lotion to make her smell beautiful, I removed the hairs on her upper lip she hated and tidied her hair.I am eternally gratefull for being there and being able to do that

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Herb Eaversmells
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There are services that will actually come to your home. So your pet is in a comfortable familiar place

jodiellis avatar
Jodi Ellis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Exactly, I feel taking them to a cold vets office is wrong. Let them know they are loved in the house they lived in for years. Pay a little extra!

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Alexandra Davis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've just had to call all of my cats that are inside (I have 5, but 2 were outside) to give them big hugs after reading this. I've had over 14 cats in my lifetime make the walk across the rainbow bridge and those who passed at the vets always had a member of the family with them (my parents when I was younger and either me or me and my parents as I was older) I didn't even know people left them alone. When I've had cats pass without us (road accident, old age at night out of the blue) I've been distraught I wasn't there with them. We came home one day from school/ my mum Work, and found our dog dead in the kitchen. She had died in her sleep and my kitten was curled up next to her and our cat on top of her back like they sensed she was going and they were there with her comforting her. We were all upset we hadn't been there with her, but took comfort from the fact she wasn't alone.

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Rob Williams
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was at home recovering from cancer treatment when Barney was born and I actually delivered him and he was with me all the way through the treatments, check ups, and when I got the all clear. There was no way that I was not going to be with him on the day he died. Was it hard? Hell yes! I cried more when he died with his head on my lap than I did when my Father died holding my hand, but there was no way that I would not be with him at the end. Barney-5b9...b3c733.jpg Barney-5b996b9b3c733.jpg

diane1atk avatar
diane a
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I dont think anyone could regret being with a beloved pet (or family member) in their last moments. There is only the one chance and you cannot go back and do it differenly

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Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

True. Even fifty-five years later, there are times that I miss our dog a great deal. It was very hard on my mother and me to be there when he was put to sleep, but I'm glad that my mum and I were there for him. If I had it to do over again, I would not do any differently. I wouldn't want to die alone, so leaving my pet to die alone would for me be selfish and cruel.

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diane a
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my oldest girl had to be euthanised due to the later stages of terminal cancer I would have done anything to be there with her for even one of her last minutes. Sadly I had left the relationship and had been forced to leave the dogs with the ex 250 miles away. My last farewell to her, an hour before the vet appointment was over the phone on speaker. "Byebye Rosiebaby darling - mummy loves you" I think she heard me

vladika_ioan avatar
Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I hope you will accept a cyber hug. Hopefully your ex was there with her at the end.

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Rissy cake
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I feel horrible i had to put my cat to sleep in july i didn't stayed in the room now i feel guilty. I will not to do that anymore even though it is hard on my current cat that is still alive. I was just so upset and sad i couldn't do much for my little cat. I was one of those ppl that didn't want to be in the room. I always apologized to my cat who i think is now a spirit but reading this hurts my heart.

fedup_1 avatar
Kathy Renbarger
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's important that you learned from your mistake; and, developed more character as the result.

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Kat
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When we had to put down our boxer, Petey, my dad couldn't stay in the room. Petey was HIS baby boy; you couldn't find a happier man and his dog. It wasn't that my dad didn't care or anything, but rather because of a number of things, my dad just doesn't cope with loss well. It was too much to watch his baby boy pass away right before his eyes, and that's the same for a lot of people.

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MBZ MetalsmithArtist
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was seven months pregnant with my son, a "risky" pregnancy due to my health issues- and my beloved cat because extremely ill from a fast growing Cancer...due to his suffering and inevitable painful demise I made the decision to have him euthanized... But I couldn't contain my sorrow (and was afraid that my being distraught would hurt my baby). So, I had my husband leave work to come and hold him as he passed away. I know I did the right thing but I still regret not being there for him as he crossed....RIP Chet

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RM Ro
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You did the next best thing by having someone he liked being there. That matters.

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Beth Simpson
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've had to put down 2 pets not even a year apart from each other. My 20 year old Siamese I'd had since I was 6 and the little puppy I got to help me cope with her loss. I held my cat as she passed as my future husband held me. I had no one with me when I was forced to put my puppy down. He got sick and when the vet said it would cost $2000 to treat him and they refused to do a payment plan for me I was forced to take the cheap option. He was 6 months old and my husband was at work so he couldn't be with me. My cousin had found out and even tho I told her I did not want to talk to her during this she refused to let me go and as I was arguing and crying the vet did not wait and put him down without me being able to pet him and hold him while he passed. That was the worse experience in my life and I'm so mad that there are vets out there who don't care about the owners. Thank you to all the good people out there who are there for their pets and vets who go above and beyond.

vladika_ioan avatar
Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would hope that most vets are aware of pets' humans' feeling these days. I can't imagine how hard it must have been for you to not be there to see your puppy out of this world. I am thankful that our vet was a sensitive, aware person.

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Tyler Duffy
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Damn BP. I mean yea this is some info people really need to know but couldn't you make this post later in the day. No one should wake up and read this , it's to damn sad.

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Sanam Ahmadi
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My beautiful baby died in my arms 10 months ago, with my family around us, all of us talking to her and telling her how much we love her and how she changed our lives and made us better persons and that how much we were going to miss her. She listened to us and comforted us as well! It was the hardest day of our lives, I will never forget the pain of holding her lifeless body in my arms and not wanting to let go! But despite all the pain, we would have NEVER left her alone in her last moments!

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Danica Steinhauser
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was overseas when Kaya, my furry ball of love, had to be put down. Not only did I ask her "dad" (who was my ex-boyfriend) to hold her, but I asked to have a vet come to the home to put her to sleep. I was crying and in horrible pain as I was there virtually via skype as she had her last moments hearing me, but being held by my family in her own home. I can't imagine having it done any other way. She was like my child. Would you leave your child to die alone with strangers?

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Arun Sharma
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In India a pet can't be put down easily and the owner has to be present otherwise vets do not euthanise.In a way its good.We have lost three dogs of which only one had to be euthanised.All of us were there with them to say final love u and goodbyes even though with a heart being ripped to pieces.We should not be judgmental but these sweethearts need us to be there and I think we all must be there as far as possible in return for all the love they shower on us.We even burried our babies in our garden where we will be with them as long as we are here.

tlilly avatar
Lilly
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

there's a part of me that could see the side of the person who can't "handle" having their pet die in their arms, but the part of me that has loved that creature FAR outweighs my own inability to handle something like this. Having had 3 dogs go this route, I could no more leave them alone than I could my own child if they are in the hospital! they are feeling creatures, and like the vet said, they are scared & searching for you. I at least owe them that much for all the joy, love, and security they gave me during their lifetime. RIP my babies--you are still thought of lovingly

deschaub1955 avatar
De Schaub
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was with my beloved doxie, Savanah while she was euthanized. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to do. Put down my beloved friend. I knew she knew "something was up", and she knew I knew something was up. She gave up one little gasp and was gone. I'm sorry this is so graphic, but if knowledge replaces fear, fur-baby parents need to know as much as possible as to what might happen.

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Deb Shaffer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a former vet tech. People have their own reasons for not staying when their pet is euthanized, but don't ever think they are not mourning for the pet. Everyone deals with grief differently. Like all of the vet staff in the article said, if an owner feels unable to be there, the pet doesn't die sad and alone. Vet staff make their last moments as warm and tender as possible. Stop making an incredibly tough decision even worse.

alusairalustriel avatar
Alusair Alustriel
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm sorry, but I disagree with you. If you take a pet, you should consider it dying at one point and not being there for him/her at the final moment I find cruel and super selfish. How can you even try to justify people leaving their friends alone? I cannot comprehend that. You took a pet, have guts to be there for him for bad and for worse, not when it's convenient for you. Vet staff will never EVER replace pet's family.

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Jim Day
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nice. My dog was blind, deaf, and in the late stages of CCD. I had to board him for a business trip knowing that it was basically palliative care. He died while I was gone. So thanks for the kind thoughts about my pet dying while I was away. I'm not sure that your attempt at anthropomorphism is accurate or not.

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Corcaigh
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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McKinley Winkler
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My pupper Scotch was real sick. He couldn't walk, wouldn't eat and he would soil his blanket instead of going outside. We called a vet to come put him down. I held him, my whole family was there besides my other do Cabo. Scotch just sat there whimpering, Cabo started howling, and he never barks or anything. We let him in and he made way to Scotch, licked him clean and laid his head on his body when he was gone. I could have sworn that Scotch was smiling, he stopped whimpering, closed his eyes, those eyes never opened again. Cabo just laid next to him, making a humming sound. Finally he sat up and howled a deep soulful howl. It was the saddest thing I ever heard. You will be forever loved and forever be a friend. Rest in peace Scotch.

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Alakye Skalsky
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I thank the vet for posting that. More people need to see it. So many think 'oh its just a dog' ike its a couch or a tv. They dont realize how much the dog waits for you to come back. Its like when you see those dogs reunited with their long lost owners after years lost on the streets. Or the ones hat see their owners come home after a long time away. They remember you. They look for you every moment you are gone. Yeah it may be hard for you to let them go, but you gave them the best life they could have, go in there knowing you did your best for them, and continue to do so. Let them finish out their life with you. A vet or tech can try to keep them calm the whole time. But it is nothing like the affect you have on him/her. They need you there. Even if its too hard. Just buck up and do it. You are here for them not you. To help ease them into the other side just as you eased them through life. Dont fall short at the finish line. And yes It is ok to cry

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Terri McGoldrick
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

9/21/18 I have to put my big tomcat Big Tux down TONIGHT due to inoperable mouth cancer, I'd like to share with anyone interested my input on this. I am nauseous thinking about what is about to happen in appx 3hrs and have second guessed my choice a thousand times today: IF. If is such a big word for only being 2 letters. When followed by "only" it can bring a myriad of supposition & indecision. IF only I had seen this sooner. IF only I had paid more attention. IF only I had noticed he was losing weight. I am a realist and will NOT drag this on and let Tux slowly waste away. A mobile vet svc is coming to our home tonite to help him cross over in the comfort of his familiar surroundings. I urge anyone to seek out this option & not make your pet's last moments terrifying ones. https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10211860055965797&set=a.1135642400233&type=3&theater

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Jovy Jergens
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have been there for my pets when they were euthanized at the end of life due to age and/or terminal disease. It nearly killed me each time but I would never let them go that final mile alone! Ever!

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DeAnna DeRosa
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Please do not place guilt on people. When I was young, I didn't think I could watch. Now, I insist on being there and holding my beloved pet. Yes, it's hard. Yes, I burst into tears. But I want her to know that she is the most important part of my life and I will be with her until the end. I am thankful to all the vet and vet techs who make this sad transition from life to death as comfortable as possible for a beloved pet. Please do not make the people who were not there feel guilt and pain now. They can't go back and undo their decision. I learned that when the time comes, I must be with my baby and hold her after death.

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Meeow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm with you til the end of time, until we meet again at the rainbow bridge. I'll never leave them. Even it was a heartbroken and they are part of your family.

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Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is how I feel about all the pets I have had the privilege of sharing my life with over the years. I miss all of them, but I take comfort in the knowledge that one day I will meet all of them again at that rainbow bridge.

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David Burkhardt
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We are not in the situation to judge! it says nothing about this Persons Love to a Creature, eaven its Family and not a pet! Its very easy to talk, when you are not in this situation... i cared very about my father and mother as they get ill from cancer with 69 and died in a horrible Way my mom 12 weeks later and my dad 20 weeks later... after i was destroyed too... today when people talk about how they would care about there family-members, and how bad people are who dont care, i have to smile a bit and ask if this person ever was in this situation, or just talking without knowing... its other, - eaven more worst... because this person or pet knows how you are suffering and become guilty for that too... the damage who can happend can be bigger then we tough before and the creature who will die dont want that, so if you think your Love is very big and you can not handle, say good bye before, because Creatures who love and care eachother should stay connected in love and not pain...!

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Maegan Winkelmann
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a vet assistant, I don't think it's appropriate to guilt owners into staying with their pet. Everyone handles the death of a pet differently and not everyone feels they can handle the process of staying. However, I will say that the idea of you being your pet's world is true; for many pets, they haven't known much of the world without you. So if you can manage it, I do think it's a wonderful gift you can give your pet at the end. If you can't, or if we have animals that don't have families, veterinary staff will do our best to give that animal all the love we can. We can't live up to the love of an owner, but we do our very best. In our clinic animal never dies alone or without comfort. But I do urge any owners that think they handle staying with a pet to do so and instead think of the fact that you are giving them a gift. Yes, the gift is often hard on us, but I think that makes it all the more valuable.

kristynschulz avatar
Kristyn Schulz
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh, I feel so bad! I wasn't even in the genral vicinity when my cat died!

alex_58 avatar
Fbomb
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The GF noticed one of our cats acting off and took him down to the Vet. I got a call a short time after to get down there. I grabbed our dog storm and headed down since he was note's best friend. I knew what was up as soon as I saw the GF. Note batted storm's head when he walked in for old time's sake then we watched the Vet administer the injection. The Vet left us as said take all the time you need. We all just hung around together until he passed. We weren't going to let someone so important to our family be alone at the end. A few days later we got a sympathy card from the Vet. He's our Vet for life. They will even do house calls for when the time comes so that the pets are at peace in their home. Dammit, who's cutting onions in here.

atruong74 avatar
SweetMamaP
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Our vet will be our Vet for Life too. After our cat passed away, we got 2 cards from the animal hospital and our Vet donated, in our name, to a pet diseases foundation that funds research for illnesses and diseases that afflict our pets. This donation is the reason why she will be our Vet forever.

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Kiss Army
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The first cat my husband and I put to sleep, we were not there and I still feel guilty about it. In our 25 years of marriage, we have lost two other beautiful fur babies and, as hard as it was, I stayed with them as they passed because leaving is harder to bear in the long run...

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Dan H
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit dammit not the way to start my day

hannah_lydia87 avatar
Hannah Howard
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Couldn't even read this. My animals are my babies and I will be with them until their death or mine

mckinleywinkler avatar
McKinley Winkler
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My puppers Scotch was real sick and we decided to put him down. The vet was supposed to come to our house to do it, we all sat with him, comforting him until she got there. We wouldn't let our other dogo out to see him. That was a mistake. He whined until we let him see Scotch. He came in and started to groom Scotch. For about 5 minutes. He started to whine again and stopped grooming him. When he moved Scotch has a faint smile on his face. Took a deep breath and never breathed out. We all sat in silence, stunned.Suddenly, my dogo lifted his head to the sky and let out a mournful howl. And he didn't stop until said some prayers to Scotch. Rest in peace Scotch, you will forever be my savior, we will love you till the end.

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Rissy cake
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes i know i should have been there for her i am sure she forgives me. My cat i still have i will be sure the last thing she sees is me.

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Rebecah Ozuna
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The thing is that's very hard for many owners to stay with their pooch while they're passing. Not everyone can take it as it's a hard image that will haunt us until we die. I lost my dear cat due to old age (19 people years) and i'm still wondering if i could've taken her eyes looking at me. It's a guilt that could drown me if i let it. It pains me that animals won't get our decision to leave then to pass. I still apologize for running away from her, but i'm not that strong, i could've died with her if i stayed by her side. I can't go through this anymore; took me 3 years to recover from her lost so i decided that she was going to be my last. I feel that i've betrayed her; i can't deal with this again.

meaganmartin avatar
Meagan Martin
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I watched my cat die and I don't think I provided any comfort at all to her, as I was so stressed and traumatized. I was upset for weeks after and depressed about life and death. I couldn't just grieve for her, it was a much deeper existential experience and that made me mad at myself and feel guilty. I was there but still let her down. So no, not everyone is up to being a comfort to their pet as they pass, but that does not make us heartless or cruel. Some of us are way too sensitive for these things. Everyone handles pain differently. And someone who has taken their sick pet to be put to sleep to spare them misery, has already made an important and kind choice for the pet's benefit. I don't know how I'll react next time, but I do think that making people feel guilty who choose to step away because they can't handle it is deeply arrogant and wrong-minded.

marta_12 avatar
Marta Falco
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

all my animals die at home. the vet comes to my house, I am totally preent. the first injection slowly makes them unconscious and then the 2nd one stops the heart. how anyone can just drop their animals offf at the Vets to be pTS is beyond me. callous, WOW. YES, BE HOLDING THEM.

darceyt avatar
Darcey Thoits
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Theis is toxic shameful problematic garbage. Shame on that vet and the clinic he works for. Everyone grieves in their own way, don't shame folks for doing their best at the worst moment. Uglyon the inside is what that post is.

matthewmiller_2 avatar
Matthew Miller
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just sat with my 15 yr old best furry friend ever as he passed away naturally. I took the time to clean him as he vomited his water that he wanted to drink. I took the time to clean his few messes til he became incontinent. And i loved on him constantly. Missed some work to be with him. I don't understand why anyone could ever leave their companion like that. They should feel guilty. They are turning thier back on the most loyal family member in that member's last amd most crucial moments. Feel the shame. You're selfish and mentally underdeveloped. My Amun (that's his name) gave me his best. I never taught him one trick, but, he would do tricks, anyway lmao. Everyday, when i came home from work, he would sit on his butt and raise both front paws like he was begging lol. It was his way of saying "hey!" cuz i would slide on to my knees toward him and he would lean forward to get a hug from me. So, i had to watch my heart bleed out while i tried to comfort him as he passed. Worth it.

bossmare avatar
Sue Knerl
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My vet took my cat Oliver in a different room and sedated him, then brought him to me, then took him away again and PTS. I wanted to be with him, not him by himself. I was really pissed. I won't go back to that vet.

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Racquel Coching
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

he was suffering from kidney disease and anemia...we cannot afford the required blood transfusion. but medication and supplements were given in hope his case would improve. before going to the vet he still had appetite and was drinking water on his owen. 4 days week from diagnosis/vet visit, he was still walking around slowly. staying in his usual spot on the porch. yesterday he refused his food and we had to liquefy his diet so we could help him. today, we were hopeful, he was suddenly up and about going to and fro the inner entrance of our house. stayed by the door, slept there a few minutes. then he woke up, stood, walked and went up. he was making noises with each of our kids room, as if he was trying to get their attention. then he proceeded to our master bedroom and slept by our door. I went to the foot of the stairs and said hey, dad aint there he is at work. he went to me, as if he was no longer sick, usual gait and wagging his tail. let me cuddle him for a while,then he's gone

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Brendan Schilka
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If an owner sometimes leaves their pets when they are being euthanized, it doesn't always mean they are being cold and cruel. I remember a long time ago, I had to have my old Rottweiler put down. It was a terrible day. But when the day came, I was crying in the vet clinic so hard, I ran out of the clinic before they put him down. I remember my dog used to be friends with everyone at that clinic, and they all loved him. But I fell apart, and I didn't think my dog needed that at the time. He was with people that cared for him many times, they were his buddies. They were professionals and calm. My dog didn't need to see me all hysterical and crying. I think every persons circumstance is different.

leeanne_2 avatar
Lee Anne
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can understand if a child couldn't stay, but an adult who becomes a parent to a fur child needs to be ready to accept every aspect of becoming a parent. Take care of your children even after they grow old instead of giving them to the shelter, hold them, and comfort them in their last moments. Honestly, I don't think someone should be allowed to own a pet if they don't understand the incredible responsibility. A pet is a young child completely dependent on you. I just had to say goodbye to my little love bug. It was completely unexpected and I was totally by myself and completely overcome with tears but I would have never left my baby alone. I would endure that pain a million times over in order to make her parting more comfortable and peaceful.

leeanne_2 avatar
Lee Anne
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If someone chooses to become a fur parent, then they better be prepared to care for their pet through whatever and hold them until the light dies from their eyes. I think it's incredibly week and selfish to leave the room. I just had to put my baby down, and I was not prepared at all for the final diagnosis but I would have never left her side in her final moments.

paydencrawford avatar
Payden Crawford
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my Dog Smokey is about to die so tomorrow we are taking him to the vet so he can die less painfully and tonight I can’t sleep I’m sitting here right now holding him and petting him while he sleeps prepping what I will say to him tomorrow because I know he can understand me some people say he can’t hear me but I know he can I will be holding him the whole time as hard as it is I’m 12 I’ve had him since I was one and he was One so this is extremely hard but I love him so much and don’t want him to suffer I’ll miss him.

roseboe39 avatar
Rose Gobuzzi
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I laid on the ground next to her the whole time. I wept and petted her told her I loved her so much. I just loss my mother a week before then my lil angel fur baby Aaliyah passed away right in front of me. I never had one of my dogs pass away in front of me in my bedroom. I was heart broken. I let her stay in my bedroom in her bed for another night so I could get a wooden box made we painted it and wrote all kind of nice things on the sides my son had a cross to put on top I wrapped her in her bed in a garbage bag. I put a lil note with her name how much we loved her. I put some fake roses in there. I insisted on screwing it shut. I also sealed it with corking. My son dig a whole deep they put her box in there we filled it with mud an a mound so I could put a cross with flowers so I could see her from my kitchen window. She will be missed I had her for 13 years of my life. She was like a baby to me. I told her go to heaven and sit on my mother’s lap till I get there. Love you ❤️🐶

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Gary Wilson
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Everytime I have had to have a beloved friend put to sleep or held a sick one that was dying on the farm, I held them and showed them the ultimate love. To HELL with people who are so selfish and self absorbed that they would abandon their luttle friends. I hope you all die alone or in the presence if uncaring strangers.

rabbitmouse avatar
RM Ro
Community Member
4 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes, it is so hard to euthanize your dog, cat, etc., but PLEASE TRY to stay w/ your faithful pet. PLEASE TRY. If you can’t, can another person your pet likes stay w/ him/her? I was 13 when we had to euthanize our little pomeranian, Smokey. Leaving him to die w/out his family close by was not an option. Even if ordered out of the room, I was not leaving him. Sometimes pets pass away before you can get there. I am so sorry for those times. All we can do is hope the vet staff was comforting and he/she went peacefully. It’s also selfish to make the pet wait in pain for the owner to get there. I’ve told the vet, as I was on the way, if my pet was stable please wait, but if he/she was suffering, please euthanize quickly to end their pain and please pet them as they die. My 13 yr old labrador is sick right now. Will be planning euthanasia very soon. Dreading these coming days. I love you, Duke. You are the goodest, bestest boy, ever.

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Heather Marie
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some people may not be able to cope with the death of a pet. My own dog's death was traumatic for me so staying with my aunt's dog could have been even worse ...Family members stopped me from being in here with her and we cried outside the room and waited then went in when finished. I am a nurse and people react differently to death. Not everyone can handle seeing a loved one through that time. Please don't make that time even harder for them by judging harshly <3. You don't know what they are going through.

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Larissa McDonald
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

To the vets and vet techs shaming the original vets post-you should be as ashamed as the people leaving their pet. Yeah it’s hard, but it’s not supposed to be easy for crying out loud. You think it’s hard on you imagine being at deaths door and your reason for living as long as you have walks out the door and leaves you alone to face that final moment? That freakin heartless. 😡🤬

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Sissy Hankshaw
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

At our place, the vet comes to the owner's home to put an animal down.

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Susan Callihan
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was present for Whisper 2001 age 18; James January 2017 age 15; his brother Ollie Sept 2017 age 15; and their step-sister Oct 2018 age 12. I held them with their familiar blankets and cried for each one. I would not have had it any other way.

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Doty Henry
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All of my animals died in my arms with the last injection. I talked to them, kissed their head and noses, ,and scratched their ears. My vet and his staff actually prayed over them with me, never once thinking that was silly. I wanted them to know I was with them all the way, not only for them, but for myself; after all they saved me I did not save them.

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Gscott Morris
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My worst vet experience was when I was prevented from being in the room by the vet's assistant when my dog was dying after being hit by a car. She died without me. I will never forgive that.

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Steve White
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I stayed with kissed and said goodbye to my wonderful cat Sasha .. She had been our friend for nearly twenty years and is still missed.

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Andrea Marshall
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My lil lassy, Holly, had to be put down after a series of bad strokes over 24 hours, I took her to the vet not prepared for what was coming . I knew she was really sick , she couldn't even sit up properly, :( but the vet was adamant that the kindest thing I could do was follow his advice :( So I did , he put in the needle and I freaked out , Stop I shouted at him stop and tried to pull his hand away from her leg but it was too late , she wimpered like she didn't want to go and I broke my heart as she slowly left me. Her heart stopped and she was gone . I still hate myself for taking her, I know she was dying but she could have done that at home. I still feel guilty.. and miss her so much. Hard to replace someone like that. But the other night I had a dream that I'd given her away and went back to get her. Saying sorry I left you ( which I never did ) but she seemed cold and annoyed with me .. I'm so confused and back to being upset . Vets just want your money.. never again. :(

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Susan Schell Tertel
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cat hadn't raised her head for days, but just at the moment before she passed when she was being euthanized, she raised her head and looked me in the eyes. It was heartbreaking but beautiful at the same time.

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Karla Jaldin Otero
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is awful, when some of my cats were really in bad conditions I have to .....you know, I never leave them alone in those last minutes, I cried a lot til see those little eyes get closed. Sometimes I feel guilty, sometimes I wonder if they were in peace before they leave, if I was doing the right thing.... I buried them all in my yard, 4 cats has passed away in my life and I loved them very much

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Wally Conger
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What kind of selfish, heartless f**k would leave their "pet" alone, in death. My precious furry angel Miss Kitty finally reached the point - at 20 years - when she was truly suffering; I took the decision that all my vets advised - to end her suffering; I held her in my lap, on her favorite fuzzy blanket, caressing her and telling her that I loved her, while I watched her put her little head down, take her last breath, and leave me. Shame, guilt, and judgement on every a*****e that leaves their pet alone. It's not about you, a*****e; it's about them.

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April Franklin
Community Member
4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

December 22 2017 I held my baby girl even for the last time she was 16 years old 4 months shy of 17 i got her when she was 8 weeks old and we were together the whole time. I kept myself from crying until after she was gone but than I buried my face in her fur and just sobbed. I wanted her smell to stay with me forever and I will never forget that day sometimes I still have dreams about it but I won't forget the day I brought her home either. I was lucky I got to schedule saying goodbye to eevon, we had wonderful days leading up to it, staying up late watching movies, snuggles and snacks. January 30 2019 I had to rush my girl rein in and it ended up being her last day. I got her as an abused puppy when she was 5 months old and she lived to be 15 (5 months shy of turning 16.) That was a heart wrenching choice, a choice I still struggle with today because it was so sudden and I wanted what was best for her. I cried the entire time, I hugged her, kissed her and never wanted to let go.

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Ryan Rudkin
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There is only one I wasn't able to stay for. My rabbit I made sure I was there whispering to him and making him feel secure and safe before he was asleep and then when they had to actually do it I couldn't stay I regret not staying but I'm glad he was asleep so he didn't know I had left I miss him greatly I just wish I had the guts to stay longer he helped me through all my depression and horrible times and I couldn't even be by his side in the end and it's horrible and haunts me everyday

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McKinley Winkler
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A couple years ago I almost died. ( I have a story of it on BP) I got home from the hospital, but I was still coughing up cups full of blood and coulnt walk yet, sometimes i was too weak to sit up. One night I was sleeping in my bed and I started caughing up blood, I was on my back and coulnt sit up. I started choking. My puppers, Scotch, started barking but when no one came he ran to my parents room and barked at their door real loud. They came running out, confused and Scotch ran back to my room, parents followed and all was well. From that point on, Scotch would sleep with me and if he ever felt that I needed anything he would try his best to make it happen. Some he did on his own. Get my blanket, slippers, water bottle, ect. Or he would get my brother or parents for me. Rest in peace Scotch, you will forever be known as my savior.

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McKinley Winkler
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A couple years ago I almost died. ( Click on my name to read it) I got home from the hospital, but I was still coughing up cups full of blood and coulnt walk yet, sometimes i was too weak to sit up. One night I was sleeping in my bed and I started caughing up blood, I was on my back and coulnt sit up. I started choking. My puppers, Scotch, started barking but when no one came he ran to my parents room and barked at their door real loud. They came running out, confused and Scotch ran back to my room, parents followed and all was well. From that point on, Scotch would sleep with me and if he ever felt that I needed anything he would try his best to make it happen. Some he did on his own. Get my blanket, slippers, water bottle, ect. Or he would get my brother or parents for me. When it was time to put him down (he was real sick) we had everybody there with him, including our other dog. Rest in peace, Scotch, you will forever be known as my savior.

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Ellie Gillespie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I will always choose to be there for my animal when they transition. For me it's not as hard as not being there. But there are people who do not feel the same and it is their decision. Their animal probably already knows this about them and doesn't expect them to be there.

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Meg Holly MARTIN
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sorry, can’t see the words in this post with all the tears in the way.

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Patti Vance
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a Doberman, Helga, which was my furry love. she developed massive tumor on chest & vet told me not 2 worry b/c it was just a fatty lipoma; easy to remove. but after surgery vet was upset b/c although it was fatty tumor, it had these little tendrils that infiltrated her chest, requiring larger margin & removal of a mammary gland. wasn't able to get clean margins & would return. I nursed her & cried throughout her recovery & return of the tumor. when I finally decided that it was too hard on her 2 to go on w/ treatments made decision 2 let her go. I really intended 2 stay w/ her but I became hysterical & even though she was sedated, it was upsetting Helga. so I left...but as door closed behind me I saw her try 2 get up & follow which sent me over the edge; I almost passed out. been over 15 yrs, still feel guilty. ever since I stay no matter how I feel, cuddling before, during, & after

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Meg Buchanan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wasnt allowed to be with my dog when I had to put him down, he was so scared and want me so bad. I felt so distraught when he passed throught the doors to the back, I ran out of the vet sobbing. i would have loved to hold him and keep him calm...

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Robin Howard
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Several years ago I had to take my 17yr old cat to the vet because I knew she was dying just as her sister had 9 months earlier. I phoned before to tell them I was coming in hope I was wrong. When I got there I was ordered (NOT TOLD)to sit in the secretary’s office because I was crying. When the Vet came & took us to the examination room, he spent about 2 minutes checking my much loved companion, gave me the bad news, then ORDERED ME TO GO PAY THE BILL AND WAIT IN THE CAR. He WOULD NOT LET ME STAY in the room. I had to BEG even to take her body home! This haunts me to this day.

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Imajean Yuss
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Probably the biggest regret in my life was leaving the room just before we had to let our beautiful rottweiler go. I was sobbing and just didn't want my last image of him to be when he was dead. I wanted to remember him alive, but it was a HUGE mistake. I kick myself constantly for my selfishness. Thankfully my husband did the right thing and stayed with him, so he wasn't alone, but he was my boy and my best friend and I left him. I'm such an A*****E! He even tried to follow me as I left the room because he wanted to be with me. I told him to stay and that "I'd be back" and left. God I hate myself for this. It will never happen again.

grahamjam48 avatar
Janet Graham
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The first time i.remember an animal.death was at.age 6...a little dog brown.and white . Possibly a Jack Russell terrier..was hit by mail.truck delivering to our box..i was horrified..I kept starring at poor little thing laid out with blood coming out his mouth on street..no one claiming this angel ..never never got over it..and then my parents got divorced in 55 ..my mom wouldn't let us have pets in CT..till my sister brought home a black.persian kitten ..from school. She allowed us to.keep it..God I loved that besutiful.animal..about 3 yrs later I was 13 and cat started to get very weak .we took it to.a VET All 4.of us kids went for ride..the cat was diagnosed with.a kidney disorder. Needed blood transfusions ..my Mother told us the VET said no guarantee with transfusions it would live 2000.00 for costs...she left our cat to be euthanized no kitty rode back with us . I cried all way home..I wanted to believe the Vet made cat better and took it not killed it..he was a beautiful animal

cree69 avatar
cree
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

my parents took my dog to the vet. If i would be there would be too hard to take it. Maybe selfish, but not all people are so strong to see lovely pet dying. Was already too hard to watch how every day she become weaker and weaker. It's already passed 8 years, still want to cry writing this

syhldayo avatar
Syhl Dayo
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

> First it is good to speak about that topic. > Then, to Jessi dietrich: if you say the truth with respect and aiming improvement, a broken heart is sometimes for some people the way thereto, which is better health; this should not be seen as something negative having to apologise for. >Last: IF owners are not been “trained to courage”, why don’t vet apply the option of a sedation while the owners are there, and then the deadly injection once the pet certainly is already sleeping, AND THEN THE OWNER CAN LEAVE, as for a surgery? This would truly spare stress to both; and is only a little bit more work for the vet: yes this would be more work, with the heart, a labour of love.

trobriand2003 avatar
Jl Li
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It was a cruel thing to say. I had to leave my cat in my vets care so he could try to save her. It breaks me every time I think of her looking for me just before she died surrounded by strangers and with ivs in her paw and smells that she didn't recognize. I couldn't be in the surgery room with her and I wish I had put her to sleep peacefully with me holding her . The regret will bother me for life.

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El-Ray King
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Look, HERE'S THE BOTTOM LINE. When your pet is dying, IT'S NOT ABOUT YOU. It's about THEM. So you sit beside them as the vet injects them, you put your head close to theirs, you give kisses, you tell them that they were the BEST BOY or the BEST GIRL EVER, you tell them you are going to miss them, and you THANK THEM for all the years of huge unconditional love and companionship they gave you. It hurts worse than anything. And you do it ANYWAY, and you do it GLADLY, and you have your heartbreak when they are gone, and you can feel s****y when they are gone. Leaving a pet to die alone is probably the most selfish thing a pet owner can do. That wasn't part of the goddamn deal. You take them on to take care of them; you take care of them until their last breath. PERIOD.

masterdiane avatar
Diane Master
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It was my final gift to my beloved dog to help her transition. She passed peacefully while the final injection was given. I would not have done this any other way. My gift for all the years of live and companionship she gave to me.

okmckenna avatar
Ok Mckenna
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My friend of 14 years wagged his tail while the vet gave him that final shot. I like to think he was saying "thank you". The vet had asked me what I would like to do and I told her that I would love my dog so much that I would like him to be treated how I would like to be treated. She asked me, How is that? and I answered that I would like to be put to sleep and end this suffering.

kronikpayne avatar
Kronik Payne
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Our family has lost 3 treasured furry family members this year, all to cancer. Not only are we all embracing them at their final moment, but we pay the vet extra to come to our home, so they can be where they feel safe and comfortable for their final moments. The percentage stated here is truly shocking, and disheartening to say the very least. Do vets counsel their human guardians about how terrifying this must be for their pets? They must, I’d think. Very sad, deeply disturbing. I pledge to each animal in my life, that I’ll commit to them for their ENTIRE life, that’s the least I can do for these beautiful souls, who give so much to us in the way of unconditional love and adoration.

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Eli Lynch
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I wanted to add also, some people are too mentally frail or physically frail to see their pet die in front of them. Every person is different. Yes. If you can, staying with them is ideal. But seeing a living thing die. Stop breathing. Stop moving at all is intense. Many people never witness any animal or person die. Usually their pet is the first death they have experienced. Dogs, cats ect can smell our emotions and see our slight body language. A very nervous owner makes the process harder on the animal. I would rather someone drop the pet off with a staff of people that loves animals so much they work with them. Rather than see another very old chronically sick stray left at the dog park. Judge all you want. But everyone is different about death. And if you have a veterinarian you like and trust, their staff should be respectful and kind. Also, your veterinarian should ALWAYS SEDATE before euthanasia. If your vet doesn't, GO TO ANOTHER VETERINARIAN.

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Ирина Чумак
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So, it means that if losing your child is even harder, it is okay to drop her off with a staff of people who love people so much they work with them? If not, then why is it okay to drop off a different family member?

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elilynch avatar
Eli Lynch
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree with the Veterinary staff that says this is a manipulative and cruel post. I was a veterinary technician for 20 years. I started work at a city run animal shelter. Many people just dump their sick pets and go at shelters. Or they just let them go in the woods/park. The reason we don't absolutely require owners to be in the room with the pet is to prevent this behavior. Many people can't face their own mortality let alone their beloved pet's. If we guilted every owner to be there they wouldn't bring them to us for humane care. My next point is...if those pets are awake when you give the euthanasia solution, you're a monster and a horrible vet. Every veterinarian does it slightly differently, but all the private practice vets I worked for sedated the pet, first. With the owner there and if the owner chose to stay they could. When we scheduled a euthanasia we asked if the owner wanted to be there. Why? So we knew to add time for that person to say bye & comfort.

cantbestopped788 avatar
Ola Polowczyk
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm sobbing. I had to put down my little furry friend half a year ago. I still cry every time I think of her. I loved her to the bottom of my heart. We had her for 14 years. At the end she was very sick and when she was being given drips, I was sitting on the floor with her, making sure she felt less scared. Didn't matter if it was at 1 AM or whatever hour. Even though at the end of her life she tried to bite me all the time and seemed to have hated me (I don't know the reason), I still can't imagine not being with her at her last moments. We went to the vet together (me and my parents) and were there with her till the very last moment. Our pets are with us their entire lives. We don't deserve them. We owe them this last favour.

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Ehren Thomsen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband and I hugged our dog Jimmy while the vet prepared him, gave him the injection and let him go only after the vet told us it was over. We had him since he was a little furry ball, and up until at 11 cancer won the battle. We hugged him and literally felt how life flew out of him. He kept his tail wagging up until the end.

kikkaio avatar
Kikka io
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Merlin was the great love of my life for 15 years. he did not leave my side even for a minute of day or night. the morning greeted me when I went to work and was waiting for me behind the door when I came back. if I took a step he would do it with me. last year a tumor ate a vertebrae before we met, and the vet said that to avoid unnecessary bullying would have been better to put him to sleep. he was in my arms all the time and fell asleep looking into my eyes as I caressed him and talked to him to reassure him. the last thing he saw was my eyes, and the last voice he heard was mine. I will be persecuted for the rest of my life by the pain that that last detachment caused me, but the thought that at the last moment of his life he knew he was loved immensely and not only repays all the pain I can feel or have tried .

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Shannon Donnelly
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a high school student I witnessed the end of a dog just as my volunteer hours ended. The way the vet treated the dog was horrific!!! And this was the vet my family had brought both our cats to. Other "pet parents" were coming in to see their dog, so the other dog had to be removed; but the disrespect for one family member over another had me not being able to step into another clinic for over a decade. When I took over care one of one of our family cats, she was the healthy one: when she got sick, I helped the vet pull fluid from her heart and quickly passed out after; I was devastated to learn that she had fought, and lost her battle without me with her, but that vet held her, and gave her the comfort I couldn't be there for (it was sudden). I held her during procedures, that made me literally faint. Because I would not let her go. My

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Betty Hyder
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have had to put two cats down, and I stayed in the room with each of them until their last breath. I am glad I did.

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angel love
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm glad that I stayed when our cat passed away. When we find death animals on the road we almost stop everytime and we put them aside, I always tell them to go to the Light.

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Marsha Gowan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

li had to euthanize my beloved cat after only 10 years. I didn't think I could stay until the end, but when we got to the vet I knew I had to stay. I laid his head on my shoulder and cradled him like a baby next to m y chest. I know he knew I was there, he knew my smell and my breathing. It was incredibly sad, but it wasn't about me, it was about him. it is the least we can do for our pets

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angel armstrong
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aw. I feel heart broken... 😭😭💔 This reminds me of my beautiful Jack Russell, Ruby, who died at the age of two. (She got hit by a car) 😢😢

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Cherie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We have a nice-sized tree where our first pet who died, a hamster named Pepsi, is buried. We have lovely perennial flowers and painted stones where two of our cats are buried. We stayed with them all to the very ends.

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porcupine
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This title was very misleading and the article was terribly upsetting. P**s-poor job, BP. And what kind of a*****e would leave their dog alone to be put down? You owe it to them to be there.

asperrated avatar
Asper Rated
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When a reasonable person signs on to having a pet, they should make the entire trip with them.

asperrated avatar
Asper Rated
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When a reasonable person signs on to having a pet. They should sign on for the entire trip.

loveyiii avatar
Loveyiii
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My husband and I do pet rescue, we have had some pets for many years and some hospice cases only a few months. We are with them in life and with them when it is time to say goodbye. It is not easy but we could not do it any other way. They will always be with us even in death. Each pet has given us more than we could ever give them. Each of them has been a precious gift.

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Tora Wookiee Macaw
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

From my dogs and cats, to my beloved Horses over the years, I've never once left any of my animals to be put down with just the vet and staff alone. I'd head them close or cradled their heads in my lap. Yes its damn hard. Yes it rips at one's soul. But personally, I'd never have it any other way when my very old, sick fur kids no longer enjoying that full on quality of life finally cross the rainbow bridge.

h_roon avatar
H. von Roon
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My best friend of 13 years left me while being cradled in my lap, in our home, while being looked in his eyes and told by my son and I how much he was the best boy in the whole world and was loved. He never saw the vet, or the needle, and he passed with a smile on his face and a look of absolute love. I write this with tears in my eyes 4 years later, and the only thing I would change about that day was if he could have been able to stay another 13 at least.

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Michèle Gyselinck
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There was one pet I had that was euthanized without my being there, and I regret it. For the others I was there and held their paw, and petted them. It's awful, but I'd rather have red eyes than regrets.

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Cinzia Sammarco
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I really don't understand. When the Vet had to put down my cats he anesthetized them and when they falled asleep he putted them down. I was with theme. Why you don't follow the same procedure?

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H. von Roon
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My boy was 110 lbs and had given medications for 24 hours prior to "the time". He left this place in my arms, alert enough to know who his mamma and boy were as we held him and loved him. The only way to have anesthetize him further would have been an iv. I would not have preferred that, personally. I'm happy, through the tears, to know the last face he saw and the last voice that he heard telling him how much he was loved, was mine.

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Gillian Black
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i agree sorry about that you who disagree your pet has been your loyal companion and then you leave that at the hardest time no way I have held, cried ,lay down with them, and even had the Vet come to my home so they have felt comfortable, they were my babies and they deserve the love you have for them till the end,

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Annasue Marczynski
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a conversation with my vet about this very thing. She said that when people are terribly upset, it often upsets the pet. In those situations it is actually better for the pet if the owner is not there. The vet and techs can offer the animal love and calmness, the owner may just make the death that much more difficult. Know your pet and know yourself, what is right for the pet is #1.

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Richard Owen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to have my beloved Jack put to sleep, we stayed with him, vets need to tell owners their eyes won’t close, not even if you try and help them, that was really difficult to find out, after the job was done :(

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Natalie Kirman
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My beautiful russian dwarf hamster Hammi died in my arms when it was his time to go, he was so gentle, sweet and affectionate. I buried him next to my favourite tree in the garden and daffodils now grow where he was buried, I miss him every day.

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Natalie Kirman
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My beautiful russian dwarf hamster Hammi died in my arms, he was so gentle, sweet and affectionate, he was buried next to my favourite tree in the garden and daffodils now grow where he was buried, I miss him every day.

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Angie Chan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had a vet come to my home and put my corgi down in my arms. It was heartbreaking, but he deserved to leave happy and comfortable. My parents were bewildered, as they typically got rid of pets as they aged--and no one ever had a pet put down in their presence. I explained that he deserved to go in the arms of the human he clearly loved--and it made everyone sad, as they never considered such a thing.________________________ On a comical note, I decided to carry his body from the house--picturing a dignified exit from the house in the arms of his human. ...it had all the dignity of Weekend at Bernie's. He was a large corgi, and I couldn't control his limp head easily. I clumsily walked him out the door, hitting things along the way, with the vet tech trying to keep a small shroud over his face. We walked out to a small boy standing on the sidewalk, looking at what was essentially a funeral procession for a dead dog, vet tech still trying to keep the shroud on his face.

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Alice Jena
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to hold too many of my beloved pets in their last hours. Anyone notice that dogs seem to rarely die at home? Cats seem to be about 50/50 as to where they spend their last minutes. When I had to have my greyhounds euthanized (bone cancer & spleen mass,) I always said into their ear: "YOU WON THE RACE!" I didn't yell it; as the caps appear. But they were both rescued from track racing & I thought they might like to hear that.

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Glenn Turnley
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would encourage anyone to arrange for your vet to come to you and your pet's home to perform the euthanasia. Sure it will cost more, but it is far less stressful for your loved pet, and you. If you are able, a garden grave is a respectful way to remember your departed pet too.

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

http://dogpage.mcf.com/misc/TributeToTheDog.html This was originally posted on k9-l by dennisr Senator Vest's "Tribute to the Dog" Go to the website to view the entire Tribute. Death Valley Day (You Tube), Ronald Regan played the Senator in this story When HE had Adam name all of the creatures He created, only 1 was not named by Adam. GOD himself named this 4 legged creature and He named it after His name, spelled backwards, Dog.

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

WHERE TO BURY A DOG But there is one place that is best of all...If you bury him in this spot, the secret of which you must already have, he will come to you when you call - come to you over the grim, dim frontiers of death, and down the well - remembered path, and to your side again. And though you may call a dozen living dogs to heel, they shall not growl at him, nor resent his coming, for he is yours and he belongs there. People may scoff at you, who see no lightest blade of grass bent by his footfall, who hear no whimper pitched too fine for audition, people who never really have had a dog. Smile at them, for you shall know something that is hidden from them, and which is well worth knowing. The one best place to bury a dog is in the heart of his master, his best friend. AUTHOR UNKNOWN:

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A Dogs Prayer ending: Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it 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, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest---and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands." Every MONDAY night animal lovers around the globe at 7Pm light a candle and say a prayer for HIS animal friends and yours too. PAX+

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

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 upon 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. Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper. Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry,

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Albert Ambrosia
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can tell you I have always been there for each of my dogs and cats when they needed the vet to help them to the Rainbow Bridge. My brother Al died 9.17.16 (yes 2 yrs on Monday), Lil Alberta died 2 weeks later she was 18 yrs old in my arms no vet, her sister Diana died on Thangsgiving day in my arms, no vet, her brother Francis died on Xmas Day in my arms, their brother Matthew died NY Day in my arms no vet, Dingo the last brother died on VD day in my arms. They had bad hearts, deaf, blind, but they were eating, drinking, doing their duty. I lost Al';s cat in June and 20 yr old Curly died in my arms 8/19 and his sister Coco died 9.11.18. their hearts just gave out, again blind, deaf and bad hearts. It hurts sure but no pet should ever have to face a vet or death without you being there for them. I know it is hard, hardest thing except to hold you father in your arms as he dies. GOD gives us pets, esp. dogs a special kind of love, undying love for their humans.

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Anna Salerno
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is without a doubt one of the most heart breaking things I have ever read! I have already decide to stay with all of my beloved pets until the end. My throat is choked and my eyes are tearing as I type this.

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Marylou Sakosky
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My shirt is soaked from tears..You are so right. My Sable died in my arms and i would never chg that moment for a million. And would spend more than that to have more time , as i keep my 11 yr old chihuahua Rocky and Sable's son Smokey also 11 here with me longer. I will be there no matter how or where or when. I have arrangements for my parting too!! and that is really secure feeling. Really was ,truth on real family and real friends as you would be shocked who you thought we ''all dogs and cats..and when it came to signing something...well. I love animals..they wag tails...not tongues .Mankind..i love just cannot stand people e1b88fa24c...0436ba.jpg e1b88fa24c4235cc62a15aaf274797ba-5b9d8f60436ba.jpg

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Mesmer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've never left any of my critters alone at the end, and I never will. I can't imagine doing it.

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Nadine Elizabeth Gibbons
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have had to have pets euthanised and I have had pets killed on the road, but the hardest pet death was when we came home to find out shetland sheep dog who had died of old age (18) on our lawn. I knew his time was near but did not realise it was so close. Then a week later we got news from the ranger they had found one of our cats - our sheltie's constant companion killed onthe road behind us. I thik he had gone looking for the dog. Thank goodness for registering our cat and microchipping him because we were able to bring him home and bury them together.

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Abby Rexroth
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my pug Gadget was very ill, 13 years, blind, deaf and diabetic. I knew the most loving thing was to let her go. I was right in her face as they gave her the injection. I was the last thing she saw as her last breath left her body. She was a sweet girl who deserved to have that peace.

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Gloria Hafner
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I stayed with my husband, a friend, my pets when they all passed. Apparently hearing is the last sense to go when dying, so I kept talking to them. It was an honor to thank them for all the love they gave me. I would have gladly given my blood, organs to keep them all alive, but in the end, all I could give was my final proclamation of love.

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Suzana Correa
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would NEVER ever, ever, leave my boy alone in his last moments. Omg, I can’t even think about it. It’s the only thing positive about him dying before me: knowing that I will be looking deeply into those big brown eyes, stroking his head and whispering to him how much I love him as he takes his last breath.

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Caroline Driver
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I felt bad and now feel bad all over again that I left my cat when she was put down. I made the mistake of looking back over my shoulder as I left and she was standing at the edge of the table with a where are you going? look on her face. I worked in a vet's as a 16 y/o and saw several animals put down, even assisted with one. I thought I would have been okay but it was different when it was my own cat. I should have stayed. I can't change that I didn't.

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Kelley Eidem
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a powerful thread! Two people recently said my cat needed to be put down because he had organ failure and/or cancer. He had the telltale reddish tint on his fur which comes from an enzyme in their mouth that they lick onto the fur. He also was barely eating and limping severely. But I had a couple inventions up my sleeve. The inventions can only be described as being out of a Star Trek episode although they don't shoot out visible beams and need to be used close to the person or the pet's body. I used a jerry-rigged version that isn't as powerful as the real model will be. It's called a Whirling Bliss Machine. The name has already been Trademarked approved for an earlier version that had to be scrapped due to patent issues. But keep your eye out in the next couple of months. The Machine does extraordinary things. Just this one thing sounds like, "Yeah, right" & I understand that sentiment. So just remember the name because sooner or later you'll discover that it's all true.

awthrawthr avatar
Kelley Eidem
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Didn't have room to mention that Snowman has resumed eating and his reddish tint is gone except for a tiny amount near his paws. He has also stopped limping. He is eating maybe 2/3rds of what he used to eat at this point.

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Maria Ines Molina
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to put down my 15-year-old cat a month ago. Staying with him until the end was truly heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. I'm feeling lost without him. Having 3 other wonderful and loving cats is a lot of comfort, but he was my special boy and he came into my life when I was battling (and losing to) depression, so he saved me, that's what I think. Throughout my life I've had to say goodbye to many dogs and cats. I'd never leave them alone at such a time, even though I understand that it may be unbearable for some people.

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Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I remember when our dog had cancer, and it was time to put him to sleep--he had started to feel pain and my dad, who was a doctor, told us that would be the kindest thing we could do was to put him to sleep since pain meds weren't helping. I remember that after the doctor had given him the shot, he looked at the both of us, let out a howl as if to say goodbye, sank to the table and in a couple of minutes, he was gone. I am convinced he knew what was happening and was grateful that we were freeing him from the pain. It's been fifty-five years, but I remember as if it was yesterday. If I am ever able to have a pet again (my wife has lots of allergies), I would never leave him or her to die alone with strangers. I will be there for them. They give us so much love and happiness that being there with them in their last moments is the very least we can do for them.

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Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I remember when our dog had cancer and it was time for him to be put for sleep. We stayed in the room with him. On some level, he knew what was happening and he looked right at my mum and me, let out a howl as if to say good bye, then sank to the table and a couple of minutes later, he was gone. It's been over 50 years, but I remember that. I'm glad my mum and I were there so that those he loved were with him at the end. If I ever have a pet again, there is no way I would leave him or her to cross over alone. They give us so much love and I could never let them die alone.

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Natalie Jarnstedt
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I cannot imagine NOT being with any of our animals when it's time for euthanasia! I have always held them until the tranquilizer took affect, and then through euthanasia, which takes a few seconds or so. I will never understand anyone who just drops off their animals, leaving them to die alone. Are they unfeeling cowards, too sensitive (whatever that means), squeamish, or just plain uncaring?

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Sushi Sashimi
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why do we as a society think euthanasia is okay? I understand pain meds of course, but why kill them? Why not spend those last moments, hours or days loving them? Why not let it happen naturally? Maybe that is the selfish part, not wanting to deal with the process?

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Sushi Sashimi
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Unless a horrible accident and great pain, why do we"put them down" anyway. Why not let life take its course naturally. It sort of bothers me to think we have the right to say when a living thing dies.

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Margaret Fitzgerald
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had two sick, senior cats that had to be "put down." For the first one, my sister went with me, and she held me while I held my cat. I cried so much, but I told my how much I loved her. It was especially heart=breaking when I could feel her body go limp from the drug. :'( The other cat was a cat I was looking after which had a terminal illness. My best friend went with me, and once again, she held me while I held the cat. I would never leave my dear pets, or any animal if I could help it, to die alone.

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Andrew Keane
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When the last family dog that I grew up with passed away he had been rushed to a vet by my Dad when half the family was away, including me. It was painful for me to not be there, but I was glad someone was there that he knew. It was just a week before Christmas, so it was a bittersweet one without him.

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David Herz
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is great...our lovely cat of fourteen years died at home but wanted to be ALONE, she walked off to another part of the apartment and died by herself. On the other hands if you put your pet's end in someone else's hands it seems only logical that they might be looking out for you. My mother in law's dog wandered off into the woods to die alone as well. It's a very personal experience.

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Ioan Lightoller
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some people also seem to want to die alone. When I worked for hospice in San Francisco, there were several times when a person waited until loved ones were out of the room to die.

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Mae Mosse
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I couldn’t stay with my 23yr old Siaman cat. My sister was with her so she wasn’t alone. I was in the waiting room blacking out and bawling my eyes out. I have a medical condition where if I get stressed I have blackouts and I did not want to have them in the room with my furbaby and take the vets attention away from her and onto me. I don’t class that as being selfish. I held her in my arms all the way home and placed her in the velvet lined wooden coffin that my dad had made for her with her blanket and the bear she always cuddled with. I visit her grave in the garden everyday. The vet who said it was selfish really needs to understand that sometimes it is beyond the persons control. I would have been there for Sheba if I could. But she wasn’t alone.

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somnomania
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can understand not wanting to be in the room, but sometimes in life we have to do things we don't want to, for the sake of others. I know it's hard to be there when they die when you already had to make the decision to let them go, but do it for them. Animals have emotions and memories and attachments to people just like we do, and to abandon them at the end to spare yourself additional grief is... not rude, but callous. Be grateful you can be there for their last moments, instead of finding them already dead and wondering forever if there was something you could have done. I came home on Valentine's Day this year after dropping my mom off at a car rental place, and went to feed our cats their daytime meal and found our eldest dead under her bed. I was torn up about it for three days, dwelling on how he might have only died after we left the house, and there was no one around for him but the other cats (who he didn't get along with). Be grateful, and stay with them until the end.

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Tecolote
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I get why people feel upset about this...but shaming people who don't stay is a horrible thing to do. My friends Denise and Mike lost their dog Duchess recently. Their dog Tzar is still around thank god. When Duchess died Mike couldn't stay in the room, he fell apart and almost had a break down. Luckily Denise was able to hold it together to stay there at the end. But if she wouldn't have been able to stay either, that wouldn't have made her (or Mike) a bad person. They are both wonderful & loving and adored her immensely. Not everything is so black and white.

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Patti Weaks
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have had to put down 2 dogs in my life so far. After holding the first on while he passed I swore I would never do it again, it was just too hard. But when I had to put down the second one 20 years later I just couldn't let her die alone. I held her until she took her last breath. I do believe that it should be up to the owner on how they can handle it, and should not have to feel guilty for their decision.

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Marta Kęska
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

90%...? omg. omg...! I just CANNOT imagine NOT being there for my pet when their time has come...

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ThanosNation
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hello we are in urgent need of animal dog food for our animal shelter because it has run out, with the money we will be able to feed them with 3 tons of dog food that can last for the next 6 months. Any support will have our eternal gratitude https://gogetfunding.com/help-us-buy-dog-food/

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R john
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dog Archie had an enlarged heart (ironic, since I have only seen him loving everyone he would meet) and every time he felt uncomfortable, he would search for me. I would at that moment hold him, pacify him. It's been three years and I still can't seem to forget the fact that he died in my arms, but I am glad that when he knew he was going away, I was there.

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Lu
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Some folks just aren’t ready to face the death of a loved one, the time to prepare is while we or they are still alive. Death is a part of living, helping our loved ones have a peaceful mind when they go is the ultimate final act of love. It’s so important.

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MCathenaE
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have been with every pet I have ever had to have euthanized. I worked in a vet clinic for years & assisted the vets in euthanasia in both animals I knew well & animals I had just met. I have cried at every single one. I read this post yesterday. I HAD A DREAM LAST NIGHT WHERE I LOST MY LAST DOG ALL OVER AGAIN. I held my current dog in my arms while dreaming of losing my last dog. It hurt just as bad. I woke up feeling like I had been crying all night only to cry for real. My heart hurt all over again & I have been raw all day. In the 5+ years that I worked in a vet clinic, I do not remember an owner just dropping their animal off for a euthanasia. Every single owner stayed with their pet. When the pet wasn't nessicarly owned but part of a rescue, the foster would be there. So screw anyone who would drop of their best friend & screw this person for posting this & making me loose my old man all over again.

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Michelle White
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my little boy passed I never left him by himself my arms were around him to the last breath. I would have never forgiving myself if I had left him without seeing my face in those little brown eyes. I was devastated over his passing. Mo mo.

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Theresa Werner
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm sorry but I don't understand why other vets would be upset about an honest post. I was abroad when my dog had to be put down. Eventhough I appreciate that my parents decided to not prolong her suffering by waiting for my return. The fact that I couldn't be with her during her last moments still hurts me. She looked for me and most dogs are oblivious to other people, it is their people they need. I'm sure most vets try the best they can to support them but this is no substitute for your presence. It nearly kills you, but you will get through it. Don't have regrets like I do...

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Midna Geno
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dog Myles was put down in May of 2018. We stayed with him though. I bawled my eyes out, didn't care if people judged me, Myles was like my little brother. I'll never forget him.

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Mark Grudzinski
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This really hits close to home because we just put our beloved border collie to sleep on Tuesday. My wife held her and I was by her side. Our malamute sat next to us looking on. How could people be so insensitive and uncaring? Oh yeah, because lots of people suck.

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Mark Grudzinski
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This really hits close to home since we had to put our beloved border collie to sleep on Tuesday. My wife held her as she received the injections, her malamute "little" brother by her side, me at my wife's side. How could people be so insensitive? Because a lot of people suck.

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Elizabeth
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My last dog Jake died in my arms at the vet, I held him long after he stopped breathing, it was one of the hardest things I've ever done and I don't regret a second of it. For most of us our pets are just with us for a relatively short time, but for them we are everything. We need to respect and cherish them.

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Kelly Harrold
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Shame on you. As others have stated, you don't know what people have gone through or why it is they're unable to stay in the room. My vet is a wonderful human being who I not only trust with my animals lives, but my own. She is sweet and caring and love my boys as well. She would give them the shot to put them to sedate them and then give them the real shot. My boys were so sick in the end, they were used to having treatments and needles poking them. There is no reason to post this and make people feel gut-wrenching guilt about their decisions of the past, present or future.

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Elaine Barricklow
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I took my springer spaniels bed with me. She laid on it on the vets table with me holding her in my arms under her head as the vet injected her. She had her smells around her and my touch rubbing her ear until she crossed the rainbow bridge.

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Sharon Dryden
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would never leave mine at the end, they give you so much while they are here and its the least an owner can do at the end. At the time you have to think about the pet no matter how difficult it is for you, I have held all my animals at the end even though my heart was breaking each time, but after I know I did the right thing that I was the last face and the last voice they heard before they went to sleep.

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Jenny Lee
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cat Biscuit (11) passed away four years ago from kidney failure. I hired a vet to come to our home to ease him in to his next life. He died on his favorite spot on the bed, while I nuzzled his head and whispered over and over "I love you", until he was gone.

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Marko Žilić
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My dog was beaten to death when i was about 14. I screamed in agony for hours and cried for weeks. My parents buried her in a nearby park but didn't want to show me where she is. Never had the courage to adopt another one.

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Joe Sauer
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I've had to multiple dogs put to sleep and as much as it hurt, I was glad I was the the last person they seen when they went.

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Anita Fox
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had my elderly cat put to sleep due to an illness she couldn’t be saved and the vet said he would give her the ROLLS ROYCE TREATMENT. I had asked what was that and it was to give her a needle to sedate her and then do the euthanasia needle. That way she wouldn’t struggle for them attempting to tie a band around her leg then to find a vein. My by beautiful girl fell asleep peacefully in my arms and I recommend that sedating first is the best way

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Kesyra
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't really expect that anyone who reads this comment is guilty of leaving their pets on their last moment but I have to vent because I keep coming back to this post and it bothers me. I have never heard of people leaving their pets when the time comes. Where I come from you will stay with them while they cross. It's called the responsibility of a pet owner because when you get a pet, you know very well that in most cases they will pass before you and if you can't bare to do your last duty as the owner and be with them when they die or at least make sure someone they know is going to be with them when they die, then you should reconsider getting a pet. When I held my dying dog in my arms it felt like my heart was ripped straight out of my chest and squeezed dry but I wouldn't have missed the moment for anything in the world because when I held them for the first time ever I made a promise to be there on our last moment, too.

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Marina Rios
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The amazing vets at Burnham Park animal hospital in Chicago came to my house on the very day I called and put my old baby down peacefully, in his home, surrounded by family. After, we took his body there to get cremated. But he never had to leave his favorite spot.

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Eunice Probert
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have always been with my cats and hens when they were at their last moments. It's horribly sad, but it's the last thing one can do while they slip away. I do believe it honours them and the love and companionship we had together. And yes, I wrote hens. I have had a couple of hens who had to put down and I held them. The only two furry and feathery members of our family that I was not present with them at death, was because they died in their sleep.

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Alusair Alustriel
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ok, scrolled down cause I cry like hell. I was holding my cat in my arms when he was being put down and I remember the vet told me that "He's falling asleep now, so you can leave him on the table." I thought I would hit het in the face. How could I LEAVE him there alone?! It broke me, my heart and soul to say goodbye, but I cried only when I got out of the room. I stayed strong for him and he went away being loved and hugged. It's been 16 years. Still hurts like hell.

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Captain Marvel
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What the heck...? It's not about YOU. For gods sake, they have been there for you every second of their precious lives, trusted you, loved you, worshipped you. And when they are lying, dying and weak, on their deathbeds it's not. About. You. The very, very least you can do to repay them for their undying loyalty is be there with them, stroke them, hold them. It shouldn't be a choice to leave them alone to die. Would you leave a relative alone to die? Would YOU like to be left alone, in your final moments, when you needed your loved ones the most? No. You would not. And pets are not any different.

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Sandra Sanynka
Community Member
5 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is so sad ... I was here for my girl and even half an hour after her dead I didn't want to leave the room. Honestly, I had to drive the vet's street to go to the work every day after and every single day during several months, I wanted to go in and check, if she is not inside ...

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Ryan Paigey
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to put my car down recently, and the vet kept telling me I could go at any point, but I wanted to stay until the very end. I’d rather be there and know she went peacefully while I petted her for the last time after 14 years of companionship than not.

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Hans Lim
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's the hardest moment when you need to give them the last kiss. I will never forget that pair of eyes.

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Azure Adams
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All of my dogs died naturally at home and three cats I had to put down at the vets office. I held each one of my kitties the whole time. As for the vets who are shaming people for supposedly guilting people for not staying with their pets, well shame on you for not educating pet owners about the importance of being there for the family member they claim to love so much. Who are any of you to just let them off the hook! If my vet was anything like you guys are I would immediately find a new one and severely chastize that vet hard!

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Xiaoting Zhu
Community Member
5 years ago

This comment has been deleted.

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RJ Oliver
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I understand some people can't emotionally handle it and I won't judge them for it. I, however, have been there for my babies, holding, petting, talking to them. When I take an animal in it's for life, sadly death is part of life.

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Debba Robinson
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I still feel guilt for my dog, Crispit. He was the first dog that I had as an adult. When the time came to let him go, my vet told me it would be better if I just dropped him off.. My last sight of him was as I walked away and they led him to another room, he looked over his shoulder at me with sadness in his eyes. To this day I still cry over my decision to do what the vet recommended. I had been with my childhood pets when they made that journey and so I don't know why I let this doctor convince me to do something different. I try to forgive myself - but after almost 30 years, I still grieve for leaving him without my loving arms around him for his last breath. I'm SO sorry, Crispit.

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Kevin Donegan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I just had to put my dog, Dawson, a 15 year old Cairn Terrier, down while I was at my home in Mexico. Every pet I've had to put down I am there with them, scratching their ear, telling them they were perfect in every way and that I loved them more than myself. I brought him to the pet crematorium myself. It breaks my heart to think that a pets' last sight is of a vet they barely know. I'm crying as I write this it is so painful.

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KT Trondsen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is truly horrid. I had no idea this was a commonly done thing. I have always been in the room when my pet has needed to be put down. it has been heart breaking, and i cried many times but I would never waste those last precious moments with them, and I wanted them to know that they were loved to the very bitter end.

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Panda Panda
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When time comes for me to hold her while she leaves, they're gonna need to dig two holes.

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Jim Reilly
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They have 2 shots they can give them. the first renders them unconscious, the second puts them to sleep.

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LoneWolfie
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm crying so hard right now TT^TT this broke my heart! If I ever have a pet put down, I will hold them the whole time.

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Jamie Fiorito
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I lost my Desi (18 year old grey tabby cat) last week. I took her to the vet and I held her while they did it, whispering to her that I loved her. I felt like I was betraying her, tbh. But it was the right thing to do. I would never have left her for that. It was one of the hardest moments of my life, but I hope it made it a little easier for her.

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Michael McGee
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Last year we had to put down our 12 y.o. rescue dog Boo, the sweetest little dog I've ever met. She was blind. She depended on us for everything. But we couldn't stop her from aging. We would never have dreamed of letting the vet put her to sleep without us being there to comfort her to the end. We wanted to stay with her as she breathed her last. We cried. The vet cried. I have tears writing this. But Boo passed with us comforting her until the end. How heartless would you have to be to leave a dog alone at the vet to be put down?

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Arti Doane
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Have gone through this many many times since I own many many animals, would never dream of leaving them alone. Still cry for so many lost friends.

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Nikki D
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I gotta call BS on this one. 90% is almost ALL owners, yet I have never met a person who didn't stay with their pet until the end. Now, any number is too high, but this is ridiculous!

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Shauna Carey
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A few years ago I said goodbye to my bf Thalia. She was a beautiful tuxedo with tons of personality. Her life was cut short by an unknown illness, and I made the painful decision, with vet advice, to put her down. It was the hardest day of my life, but I cradled her like a baby while the vet administered the injection. She passed peacefully in my arms. She stuck by me during heartache, loneliness, moving and so many celebrations. Comforting her to the very end, even though I was a hot mess, was the least I could do for her years of love and friendship.

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Grumble O'Pug
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Always with mine when they have to go to the bridge. Heartbreaking and hard, but I can't imagine doing any other way. I think the best quote, to paraphrase, is that I have the rest of my life to be all f****d up and dramatic, but I need to put it away and be there for them.

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BetsyB
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm afraid to even take mine in after I worked at a clinic. Even the time it takes to put the catheter in is too stressful for some cats. When the time comes I'm going to do ny best to ensure that it's a home visit & that he never leaves my sight.

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Ann Jeppesen
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Fortunately I've only had to put one dog down. It was the toughest decision I've ever made. I hold him in my arms and he had his head on my lab as he slowly fell asleep and eventually died. I couldn't see anything for tears, but he felt safe up until he died. Worst day of my life.

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Liz Llanes
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I never leave my dog when she is sick or near death...i comfort him and says its okay to go and thank my beloved pet for being with me trough thick and thin ..i love them and and up to now i still miss my pets...

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Liz Llanes
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have experience that already but i never ever left my dog when he is sick and near dying...i comfort him saying its okay to go and i thank my beloved pet for being with me through thick and thin...i love them very much a d up to now i still miss tbem so much...and i know they are happy in heaven now❤❤❤

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Rocío García
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm glad to read this because is what I thought when I had to put my dog down. I didn't want her to be alone in that moment even knowing that this will be one of my memories of her. It will always hurt but I don't regret it. But I also know not everybody can do it, my father was there too and he couldn't and there is nothing wrong in that.

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Jodi Ellis
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This story is hitting home hard for my husband and myself. We have just scheduled the date for our beloved "Mama" to be euthanized. The great service our vet provides is coming to our house to take her to her final place. We both want our dog to remember our house and our faces when she leaves us. As the date draws nearer, it is going to be hard, however, we know her living the life she is right now is not the best. We will both be there to the end with her and would not have it any other way. We love her dearly! As I am crying writing this because I know she has only 8 more days left.

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Liz Sahlin Johansson
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It wouldn’t cross my mind to leave my friend, a creature that only given me love for years - no human have done that - been there truely “in sickness and health, sorrow and joy”, leave him/her to die alone in a room filled with smells from other visitors in pain and fear and had most certainly not been my friends favorite place either!!! To leave would be the ugliest betrayal I could do and I should lose the right to ever again take me a new one!!! But that’s just how I think...

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Denise Melek
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I worked at an emergency vets office and thankfully never witnessed that.To see an old man cradle his cat and speak to him while he fell asleep, a big muscular man cry like a baby when he let his dog go, people who tried to hold back their tears and left the office broken and couples who held their animal in the míddel broke my heart. But they always stayed.

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devi L.
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This hit me hard. But now I am aware of what I need to do whenever that time comes.

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JJ Zinn
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Seriously? I have never left the room when my animals were put down. I held them and stayed with them. Kissing them and telling them how good they were and that I love them.

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Kristy LeAnn
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know a lot of vets are willing to do horrible things like cutting the vocal cords of dogs just so they'll be quiet and declawing cats, so I find it hard to believe it when vets say animals don't search for their owners when they're dying. If they had a loving bond with their owner why wouldn't they? I wouldn't guilt someone that felt like they genuinely couldn't handle being there for it but personally, I would never leave a pet to face death alone just like I wouldn't leave a person I love to face death alone either. But that's just me.

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Kjorn
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

as much it would be hard when i'd put my dog to sleep it would be my responsability to be there.

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Michelle Watler
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have never and would NEVER leave my pet when I had to put them down. It's the worst part of being a pet owner but I could never leave them to pass with strangers. Suck it up and be there for them!!

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Ian Carter
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

wow is this even a thing? I lost my dear Springer Jimmy 3 years ago to inoperable cancer, we had to put him to sleep and it was the hardest thing I have ever done but after a morning spent playing in his favourite place and lots of treats at the vets I held his head as the injection went in, he drifted off into a comfortable slow sleep, I immediately left the room and lost it big time BUT his last moments was with his dad like always. RIP boy

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Sean Katz
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When my beloved tomcat, who we had lived together with for seventeen and a half years, had cancer and there was nothing left we could have done to make him better, we called the vet emergency service. A vet came to our house and did what had to be done in our living room and my sweet little friend died in my arms.

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EllieKaan
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My sister works for Animal Services (the pound) for south florida / Miami. It is unbelievable the amount of animals that get sent to be put down by their owners just because they're old or sick and they don't want to deal with it. They won't even go in the room. I'm talking about a huge percentage. Sometimes the facility refuses to put them down and finds them homes. Some people have no hearts or souls. Pets have feels too and they love you no matter what. They beg for their owners to take them back and they turn around and not one f**k is given. I hate people.

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lazy panda
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My cat, Baby, is 15.5 years old. She has been a part of my life even longer than any of my grandparents. I know that she is going to leave us but I cannot imagine leaving her to pass on her own.

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Shana
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

About 9 years ago, we had to put my brother's dog to sleep. We (my brother, sis-inlaw and I) sat around Lothar (the dog) on the ground, holding and petting him while the vet did everything. 3 months ago, one of my cats suddenly passed away at home while I held her. Heartbroken and crying (during both times) but it never crossed my mind to leave them alone. Didn't know so many people would leave their pets during that moment. But I guess I do understand a bit, it sucks, it's terrible, we all wish our pets would live forever but sadly, their time will come one day too. And it hurts to watch them go.

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SweetMamaP
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

My youngest cat (she was 8 years young) passed away at home recently. It was our first pet death and we didn't know it. She started crying out and when I checked on her, she was having seizures. But I didn't know that the end was near, so gave her some privacy for the seizing to pass. She had been rapidly declining due to feline cancer so the crying and the seizures were sort of "normal". We had scheduled her final vet visit in a few days, but she was ready to leave and she did. I still feel bad that I wasn't right by her side in her last moments, even though she was home and on her favorite bed. My husband and I always said that we would be with all the pets in their final moments. We could not imagine leaving them alone at the end.

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Rit
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don't know what to think about this. When my cat got hit by a car and had to be put down, I actually WANTED to be with him. But the vet told me to wait outside because I would only scare him and make it harder for him to let go. So that's what I did and it was so heartbreaking to hear him meow from the other side of the door. But in that moment I had to trust the vet and do what he said was best for my poor baby and not for me. After reading this I really don't know what's right or wrong. I still wish I had been in there with him. T_T

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Louiiiise
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I stayed with every pet I've had in their final moments since I'm an adult. Of course it's hard, so what? Would you like your close ones leaving your side just before you draw your last breath? I don't think so. Accompany them in their last moments is the least we can do for them, and also to be strong for them, I usually keep the tears fir later and focus on soothing, reassuring them. I consider it an honour and a duty. And it taught me a lot about dealing with death.

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namjoonie_ k
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just can`t imagine leaving any of my lovelies alone at their last moment. I had to put down my beloved cat Timothy just two years ago, when he suddenly fell sick and despite our best efforts, it just wasn`t something, that could be cured with a pill... I`ll forever remember those last heartbreaking moments and no matter how hard it was to see it all with my own eyes, I`m truly glad, that at his last moment he was at home and with me by his side.

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Weim Central
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As sad as the story is - it makes me happy how many of these posts refer to "my baby", "my girl" or "my kids"!

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Alec
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

WTF?!?! Who would leave them like that? Unfortunately I've had to put some of my kids to sleep, but when that time came I called the vet, arranged for a house visit, and held them until the end. It was the least I could do.

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Linouchka 99
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It never occurred to me that a petowner could actually do this ! If I had to put a beloved pet down, I would ask to hold it in my arms first and the injection made only after my baby is calm and comforted. I had a cat die on my belly at night in my sleep, and the only thing that helped me grieve was that he was in his favorite place with his favorite person, surrounded by my love. He was my baby, it's been over fifteen years and I still miss him...

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Aneese
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would NEVER leave any animal alone to die. EVER. It is inhumane and cruel. WE need to stop putting our feelings first and stop being the pitiful, selfish, self-centered people this world has produced. I held my baby Toast in my arms, I stroked her ears and under her chin, her favorite spots, and told her I loved her and she was beautiful and the best babygirl I ever had, all the same sweet things I told her every day so that she could relax into her nap like she did every day except this time she would not wake up in pain or struggle to breathe. It was the hardest thing I ever had to do. But I did it to honor her life and thank her for the wonderful years she gave me as a comforting companion and a million laughs. When she looked up at me that one last time, she looked at me with love and calm. It is one of the things I hold close to my heart. Yes the grief is heart breaking, but you will get past it. And now I have two more delights in my life to share love with.

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Kathy Renbarger
Community Member
5 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm SO sick & tired of the "special snowflakes," who believe the world revolves around "their feelings...." {rolling my eyes in disgust} Yes, having to take a beloved fur-kid to the vet to end their suffering IS heart-breaking; but, a LOT of things in life ARE difficult! Your fur-baby got you through a lot of those hard times; &, you OWE IT TO THEM to be there for them, when they need you the most! SUCK IT UP! Personally, I don't even leave my fur-kids alone for surgeries. If a vet won't allow that, I find a different vet! I don't feel ONE BIT badly about guilting folks who are so self-centered that they let ANYONE - 2 or 4-legged - who had shown love & devotion to them, to make that transition without their being there for them. If they're so fragile, perhaps they should stick to STUFFED animals??? At the VERY LEAST, have the vet give them that pre-op shot that knocks them out in just a few minutes; &, stay with them through THAT process, before they're taken them back for the other 1

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