13 Year Old Jack Russell Update

[riptide]

I had my darling Ben put to sleep today. I am so upset and sad. I know in my heart it was the right thing to do as he had no quality of life and was so distressed, but miss him so much. He was always by my side and although I have two other dogs, neither of them are quite like Ben, he was so loyal and always went over the top with his affection. Still I must be grateful for having him so long and having such a beautiful dog to love.

Thanks all for you help and advice yesterday, always much much appreciated.

[Mrsspagnoli57]

Oh how sad. Console yourself that you did all you could for your dog. it will get better but there is no shame in grieving a pet-I know some people scoff and say its only a dog/cat etc but pets become part of us and their passing is no less than losing a loved family member. Our beloved beagle died years ago but I still see the depression in our back lawn where he was buried with his bowl,lead and the spoon we used for his food and remember him-not so much with sadness now but with great affection.

[riptide]

Thank you all for your kind words and support, I am devastated at the moment, there will never be another Ben, but I sat him on my lap at the end and he went very peacefully and is not suffering any more.

[Meg]

So sorry to hear your sad news, you made the right decision.

Ben is painfree now, but you must be devastated. Sending you a hugxx

[mrs.chappie]

So sorry to hear the sad news. (((HUG)))

[rsvp]

How brave riptide - you did good for your beautiful dog - pat on the back to you so don't be sad, you really 'done good' for your doggie friend.

[Sparkles62]

I really feel for you today. I had to do the same thing a few weeks ago myself,
Its so upsetting at the moment, but you know you did the kindest thing. X

[Psybbo]

You did the kindest thing for your best friend, I had to do the same years ago and I still miss him xxx

[masma]

The last act of love you can give your pet is to hold them while they go to sleep. I've done it twice and although it hurts like hell you know you couldn't have done anymore for them.
Rest in peace dear little Ben, and Riptide..think of all those happy days he's given you. Sending you love xxx

[ladybirder]

So glad you stayed with him to the end riptide, many people don't. It is so hard, they break your heart, but you wouldn't be without them. Well done for doing the right thing at the right time. X

[Ann]

How brave you were to let him go peacefully riptide. I still remember how I felt many years ago when my lovely bearded collie who was nearly 19 had to be put to sleep. Remember him with love and look at all his photos which are lasting memories of all the happy times with Ben.
Here is a poem I found for you .....

My best friend closed his eyes last night,
And as his head lay in my hand.
The doctor said he was in pain,
And it was hard for him to stand.

The thoughts that scurried through my head,
As I cradled him in my arms.
Were of his younger, puppy years,
And oh...his many charms.

Today there was no gentle nudge
With an intense "I love you" gaze,
Only a heart that's filled with tears
Remembering our joy filled days.

But an Angel just appeared to me,
And he said, "You should cry no more,
GOD also loves our canine friends,
He's installed a 'doggy-door"!

~ Jan Cooper ~

[Ann]

A big ((hug)) for you too ........ x

[mrs.chappie]

Some lovely poems on this thread.

[petal54]

I know how hard this must hurt.dogs become so much part of the family.all best wishes

[NoMercy]

So sorry for your loss. x x

[abstibus]

riptide
I am so sorry to hear about Ben and the heartbreakingly courageous decision you had to make.
Ben is sleeping peacefully now.
Would that all dogs knew such love in their lives.
xx

[riptide]

Such lovely comments and poems thank you all.

[anneasquith]

what you did is the last loving gesture you could do for ben,

[maggiebee]

That took a lot of courage riptide but it was the last loving gesture you could make for your dear Ben. Remember the good times. x