We found out on Thursday that our 12-15 yo (we adopted him as a stray three years ago- vet estimated age) large mutt-hound dog, Henry, has been diagnosed with cancerous tumors that are inoperable. The vet is getting back to us on Monday, after consulting with an oncologist this weekend, to determine the best approach for pain management. However, she did note that he probably only has 1-2 months left with us.
Rob and I have altered our travel schedule for the next few weeks to be home more often and are mentally preparing ourselves for these next steps. Although we have two other dogs we've had since pups, they are both younger (5 & 7) and so the whole "senior" dog thing was a learning process for us. We are now talking and trying to learn about the actual dying and euthanization process. It may sound morbid, but we are both highly emotional and I think by talking about it, we'll prepare ourselves better.
If anyone has any advice on this sensitive matter or would like to share their stories, they would be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Re: Our Dog is Dying
I'm so sorry to hear about your dog. We don't have any children, but we do have a 6 year old loveable mutt that we adopted from the Humane Society. She is my world and I can only imagine how you feel right now. I'll be praying for you, your dog, and your family- I hope that he won't have any pain and that you'll all find strength during this difficult time.
We have an aging cat and may be facing what you are soon. I've never experienced this yet.
No matter what you decide to do, you gave a loving home to a stray who needed one and you should always feel good knowing that.
Kelly, I'm so sorry to hear this.
I have a senior cat who is going fast too- the vet can't seem to find what's wrong with her- and she has all but stopped eating. It's heart breaking because I've had her for 8 years and she was a stray I took in when I moved back to IN. She's been there through thick and thin.
You might remember too that late last year, our dog Lucy got out of our yard and was missing for 2 weeks and then was hit by a car and killed. I don't know if I would have dealt with it better if I could be prepared or not- but I don't think it's easy any way you look at it- best thing you can do is enjoy the time you have left and make him as comfortable as possible- and know that he had an AWESOME life while with you and Rob. Nothing you guys have done could have been done differently to prevent this- you were the best parents you could be and Henry will always love you (and look out for you) because of it.
I'm so sorry again!