Preparing for the end

[WillParkinson]

My dog, Misty, can barely move. She seems in discomfort. She ate this morning and then laid down. She doesn't want to get up. I put her in the bed so she'd be comfortable, but I fear the end is near.

She's had a good life. She's 15 years old. The vet said that she's lived longer than most dogs her size.

I want what's best for her, of course. If she's suffering I don't want it to continue. But it's very hard for me say goodbye to 15 years of my life. I look in her eyes and still see the dog that followed me home one day. The one that could, in younger days, jump through the car window without touching the car. The one who, when she thought I was mad at her, would get on the bed and drive her head underneath my pillow and lay there till I put my arms around her.

Our youngest, Bailey, doesn't want to leave her side. I think he knows. And, sadly, I think I know, too.

Paul is on his way home to take her to the vet for their opinion. I fear what it's going to be and don't think I can ever be truly ready for it.

So just needed a moment to put it down before the tears fill my eyes and I'm not able to say it.

I love you so much Misty. I wish you peace.