Well.. our dear sweet pooch is showing increasing signs of her terminal illness. Weight loss, increasing weakness in one leg. Christmas Day she was so subdued I was afraid the end was imminent.
The vet told me that our dog had probably been stressed when we all left Christmas eve. Her weakened immune system intensified the effect.
What's weird is that she still has a sunshiny disposition, a big smile and loves to be close. It was the first time she'd seemed really sick.
I've put down runners so that she has traction walking on the wooden floors. It's a small concession. I'm also learning about in home euthanasia and associated costs... trying to be practical. But oh the sadness within when the reality occasionally pokes its head up.
Just after college our family dog had a series of strokes within a two day period. My mother decided it was his time and had him put down and let us know afterwards. I missed being able to say goodbye. The grief I felt was enough for me never to want to have a pet again for fear of the loss I'd feel.
Thank goodness for kids who persevere and that our sweet puppy has been in our lives so long. A divorce, a father's passing and the near end of a long time family companion. Busy year..
