Part of what our dogs teach us, I think, is about change and loss and reveling in each moment and not waiting for some other part of our lives to start, and how life and death are two sides of the same coin. I don't really know how to say it, but a lot of my own philosophy (or "life POV") came directly from my experiences with and life with my dogs.

I CAN say this, though: this love we have between species always strikes me as a miracle. I know we've said it before, but the miracle renews itself all the time. We have love for and from an entirely different species!

None of this makes the loss any easier. Nothing does.

Thinking of you and Bob, Betty.

I remember this thread from last year. I'm sure, at that time, you wouldn't have thought you'd have another year. What a blessing. I hope Bob was better prepared than we thought he'd be.

Duane this thread last year and showing it to my husband was the best thing I ever did. I started it out of frustration and anger, anger that not only would I have the burden of the decision and the logistics but anger and fear that when I would need it most I would not have the support of my spouse.

But because of the wise words here and people sharing their pain and experiences it was a decision I did not have to make alone, my husband and I were able to support and comfort one another.

Thank you my friends. A year ago you planted the seeds that made this difficult day easier. I did not have to do it alone, and that was a very precious gift.

awww Betty, so sorry for your loss.

Just know that you and your husband did the right thing.
It's the one last unselfish act we can do for our dogs. They deserve that.
take care.

So very sorry, Betty...hope my Grace was there waiting for him, ready to show him the ropes. We lost her in February and it's been a rough road. I hope you find comfort in the great life you gave him and the immeasurable gifts he gave in return...many hugs to you!

Aww, Betty

It's never easy to lose a friend, but some dogs take hold of your heart and tear you to pieces when they leave...

We all know it's the final gift that we can give them. The gift of a peaceful passing. The gift of leaving this life with dignity. The gift of showing them our love to their last breath.

That doesn't make it any easier at the time, though.

Kingster had a wonderful life with you. Each day of his life he KNEW he was loved. He knows it still as he waits for you at the Bridge...

Drifty Dog and I send hugs to you and all of Kingster's friends.

Rest in Peace, Handsome.

--Kel

So sorry for your loss, Betty.

Oh Betty, my heart is WITH you on all counts, and I am so sorry for your loss of Kingster...

I agree with all the Supportive Posts from everyone here who has been down this road with us -- It truly is the last & most loving gift we can give our Precious Animals, but it always gets harder each time NEVER any easier...

I live alone & am forever by myself on this responsibility, in which the VERY BEST and Most Difficult choice is not to wait too long -- But it is typically made even harder by what seems to be the Inevitable Fact that just when you decide "this is the day" they Rally SO Amazingly that you hesitate another 24 hours...

However, as to the "Is it a guy thing?" part:

One of my closest male associates and I suffered the ruination of our hitherto wonderful four year friendship when I had to help escort my last dog over The Bridge -- That man's knee-jerk reaction to my choice was just as Cruel & Selfish as it was Irrational & Unexpected ... Afterwards, he was embarrassed & apologized, and I later came to understand his Aggression was really about his Own personal issues (but in the longrun, none of our "follow up work" succeeded in healing the psychological breach in my soul) so you & your husband are very Fortunate & Admirable indeed for managing to process this together !!!

Recently, I watched the True Story film, "Steel Magnolias", again & was powerfully reminded of its profound message about the often-times Genderal Difference in handling the Gift of Life AND Gift of Death -- If you have not seen that old movie lately, I would highly recommend another viewing soon ... And meanwhile, please know the people on this forum are here for you, Betty.