These days, however, his age is really showing. He's got quite a hitch in his get-along, stairs are a real challenge. He often stumbles when we walk, and tall grass is a nightmare. He drinks water like there's no tomorrow, which is unusual for him (when he first came to live with me, it practically took an act of congress to get him to drink). His bladder isn't what it used to be.
Despite all this, he is always there for me. Any pat on the head, any kind word, he appreciates it. Even if I don't toss the ball any more, and our walks are short, and I'm out of the house all day, come home late and soon got to bed - he still seems to appreciate the time we have together.
It is hard to know if "it is time."
Anyway, today I saw this video, and it beautifully demonstrates why we love our animals so. Sure, it's all anthropomorphic, but it is beautiful...and I challenge anyone to get through it with a dry eye.
Fellow animal-lovers know how heart-breaking it is to say good-bye. My best wishes to you and Toby.
ReplyDeleteHe is right. We know when they come into our lives that we will see them go. We accept this, because we know that the joy that we give each other transcends the grief. A peaceful passing is the last, best gift that we can give them. My heart goes out to you and Toby.
ReplyDeleteI have so many dogs and cats that I've experienced that pain and loss too many times. Two of my dogs are now showing signs of decline, so I am bracing myself for the inevitable sadness to come. My best wishes to you and to Toby and thanks for this nice tribute to the love we share with our four legged friends. It inspired me to redouble my efforts to make the most of my time with them.
ReplyDelete'Sorry to hear this! Peace to you.
ReplyDeleteOur Frye is getting slow and deaf - we know where you are coming from...
ReplyDeleteEllen, my heart goes out to you and Toby. Don't worry you will know when it is time, for now just enjoy and love him.
ReplyDeleteAs always, it is hard to know just when to "let go" of our pets. We don't want to do it too soon because we will feel guilty; we don't want to wait too long because we will feel guilty. You just have to "feel" when it is right for you and your pet. They usually will let you know. We lost both our dogs within four months of each other. Talk about hard. Ugh! But now we have fond memories and funny stories of them that we are able to tell. I did watch Jon Katz' video a week or two ago but I don't think I can watch it again. My emotions are a bit raw yet even though I know we gave our "found puppies" a better life than they could ever have expected. You are doing that too so just enjoy whatever time you have left.
ReplyDeleteOkay, I was doing great until about the 2:50 mark when he said to bring another home. I know how you are feeling. There was nothing harder than when we had to say goodbye to Zoee. It won't be long before Rose will join her, I think. Rose is going deaf, she's covered with bumps and odd things that come with age. She is faithful and sits by me all day and in the evenings. Toby will let you know, just like our Zoee did. Hugs.
ReplyDeleteThank you, all. And Karen L - you hit the nail right on the head! The ol' "damned if we do, damned if we don't" conundrum!
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