Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 08:37 PM Dec 2023

My dog has died.

On Christmas Day he was put down. He didn't eat on the 24th, and vomited in the early evening. I let him out side, but he didn't come back in. When i was ready for bed I went looking for him. He came out from under a rose bush and came back in the house. After I had gone to bed I could hear him vomit again. When I got up in the morning I could see he vomited up a blood clot and was bleeding from his mouth. I took him to the emergency vet. They wanted $3000 to look at him I put it on my credit card. They took X-rays and said he had fluid in his abdomen, and would need a ultra sound to know what was wrong. To get that I would need to drive to Marin where it would cost $1,000 and I could spend the night in a Hotel. I said I wasn't going to be driving down there, and I would leave my dog overnight for them to do the ultrasound the next day. They wanted another $2000 before I left. They asked me to call when I got home. I did. Then they called me back a little later and said he went into septic shock, and rather then let him suffer, they put him down. I went back on Tuesday and picked him up to bring him home and bury him. They gave me a $1,620 refund. He was the smartest dog I have ever owned. All my other dogs would let themselves in when they wanted to come in the house, but he was the only one that would open the door from the inside and let himself out.

I live on a coastal ridge on the Sonoma Co California coast. There hasn't been a frost here yet this winter. I live within a Homeowners Association and there are a few 40 acre parcels for sale. I have wondered if there might be folks looking for property that might be interested in moving into the wild. There are Mt lions and bears that show up now and then. Twice I have had a mt lion thin my flock of sheep. The coyote has taken a few too. The soils are quite radical. There is a hill behind the firehouse that is made of chert. That used to be the ocean floor where diatoms collected and were subducted and transformed under heat and pressure into something the Indians could make arrow heads out of. There is also an area on the ranch whee there is a lot of cobble. I thought it was part of an old river bed, but a geologist told me it was glacial moraine. Then there are big boulders 15 - 20' in diameter that made their way here from the Sierras. The San Andras Fault is just a couple miles to the West. And on another near by Homeowners Association there is rock that used to be a volcanic core. There are also sandy soils called Gold Ridge Cap. A type of soil that will support apple orchards without needing summer water.

Well, my best friend has died. He came into my life crawling onto my lap and chewing on my beard. The 25th he got into the truck, then out of the truck and walked to the door of the Vet's but resisted going in the door way. Two people had to come carry him inside. I don't post a lot on DU, but I just wanted to connect with some folks and share my life. Just over 6 years ago I was driving home from visiting my family after Thanksgiving and lost my partner of 40 + years. I didn't share that with DU at the time, but I thought about doing so several times.

Well, I guess I will close this and wish everyone a productive new year.

Eagle East, Coyote South, Brown Bear West, White Buffalo North, Great Spirit, Mother Earth and all my relations; Thank You for the Many Blessings bestowed upon me and show me the path to be a blessing myself.

161 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
My dog has died. (Original Post) AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 OP
I am so very sorry for your loss. revmclaren Dec 2023 #1
Thank you, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #8
There are tears in my eyes reading this ADW. Irish_Dem Dec 2023 #2
Thanks, hugs back. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #10
i don't think anyone will have a friend better than a dog. ret5hd Dec 2023 #3
Thank you. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #11
So true Laura PourMeADrink Dec 2023 #44
I am so sorry dflprincess Dec 2023 #4
He always wanted to go with me. When I would tell him he had to stay it would break his heart. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #13
I feel your pain. OAITW r.2.0 Dec 2023 #5
I feel my dog crossed the rainbow bridge and had a meet up with my partner. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #16
Yes, he did. niyad Dec 2023 #20
I'm so sorry for your loss. brer cat Dec 2023 #6
Thank you, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #17
i'm so sorry et tu Dec 2023 #7
He had the best life. He could jump the fences and wander at will, but seldom did. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #22
Dogs and cats CAN love each other. And will Laura PourMeADrink Dec 2023 #46
If I could take your pain from you I would. ZZenith Dec 2023 #9
it was a pleasure to be in his company. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #24
So sorry, it's a tough time of year, I lost my mom around Christmas 30 years ago but it still hurts Walleye Dec 2023 #12
Thanks, I lost my dad on fathers day eve about 10 years ago. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #27
Best advice given to me is ( after total grief) Laura PourMeADrink Dec 2023 #51
Thank you. Oh to be able to jump fences again. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #54
Lol. Our dog can jump a 6' chainlink. So get we cant do that lol Laura PourMeADrink Dec 2023 #110
That is wonderful and wise advice. dgauss Dec 2023 #58
Sending a hug and hope democrank Dec 2023 #14
Thanks democrank. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #29
Your Dear friend and your partner will know you Deuxcents Dec 2023 #15
Thanks Deuxcents, So far I'm willing to meet them in dreams, but I still enjoy life enough AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #34
Yes, life is beautiful Deuxcents Dec 2023 #35
Lady of the Beasts, please take Your little one gently home in your loving arms, niyad Dec 2023 #18
Thanks niyad, he was border collie X kelpie, golden brown with white coller and tail. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #39
We would love to see photos of him, if you would like to share. niyad Dec 2023 #41
2 photos of Zeke a friend sent via email. AnotherDreamWeaver Jan 2024 #160
I'm going to try again. AnotherDreamWeaver Feb 2024 #161
I with I had comforting words but I do offer hugs and kind thoughts. MLAA Dec 2023 #19
Thanks MLAA, hugs back. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #40
I am not especially enamored of emergency vets. Kali Dec 2023 #21
Thanks Kali, my good fortune I had the money, but I didn't have the wherewithall to drive AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #43
The part that sucks SarahD Dec 2023 #23
yep. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #45
It is so hard to say good bye to our fur babies. Take time to grief for FloridaBlues Dec 2023 #25
Thanks, they did let me in the back to say good night before I drove home. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #48
I am truly sorry. Losing one of our fur babies is really hard Maraya1969 Dec 2023 #26
Thank you for the sympathy. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #50
Here's a saying I like: Frasier Balzov Dec 2023 #28
Thanks, I have a few of those holes, but this is the biggest. Take care, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #52
So very sorry for your tremendous loss louslobbs Dec 2023 #30
Thank you. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #57
The cycles of life are hard sometimes.. Permanut Dec 2023 #31
We built our home using barn door hardware to hang a sliding glass door framed in 3X6 cedar. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #61
I'm so sorry. ms liberty Dec 2023 #32
Thank you. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #63
My deepest condolences on your loss. sinkingfeeling Dec 2023 #33
Thank you. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #67
He was a Good Boy - sending Love Nictuku Dec 2023 #36
Thanks, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #69
thank you for sharing and may you and yours be blessed always n/t KatK Dec 2023 #37
Thank you, many Blessings your way too, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #70
'Epitaph to a Dog' Lord Byron 1808 Hotler Dec 2023 #38
Thanks, that's a powerful piece of poetry. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #72
So sorry for your pain. 70sEraVet Dec 2023 #42
Thank you, I'm sure the year will bring some. Spring will soon be upon us. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #73
He sounds like a great dog that left you with a lot Mr.Bill Dec 2023 #47
Yes Mr.Bill, lots of wonderful memories. a gentle passage for your pet when the time comes. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #75
so very sorry Skittles Dec 2023 #49
Thanks Skittles, that's great. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #76
Sending virtual hugs. progressoid Dec 2023 #53
Thank you, and I send some back... nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #77
I am so sorry. LoisB Dec 2023 #55
Thanks Lois, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #78
I'm so sorry. Ocelot II Dec 2023 #56
Thank you, and hugs back. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #79
There is NEVER a "good time" to say good bye. BigmanPigman Dec 2023 #59
Yep, I believe you. Thanks, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #81
Your friend is still with you.. Joinfortmill Dec 2023 #60
Thanks fellow traveler. I will listen for his bark when company arrives, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #83
I'll bet that you gave your dog the best damn life a dog could ever have. usonian Dec 2023 #62
Thanks usonian, and know I do have some good friends, they are a great help. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #85
I understand your pain, peacebuzzard Dec 2023 #64
Thanks peacebuzzard, Best Wishes for your New Year too. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #86
No words. PlutosHeart Dec 2023 #65
Thanks PlutosHeart, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #87
I wish I could hug you. MontanaMama Dec 2023 #66
I got your virtual hug MontanaMama, and share back. Thanks. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #88
💔🫶🏻 onecaliberal Dec 2023 #68
thank you onecaliberal. Hug back, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #89
AnotherDreamWeaver, I'm so sorry for all this loss. Bluethroughu Dec 2023 #71
Thank you Bluethroughu, for hugs and mending hearts. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #90
The Power of a Dog rambler_american Dec 2023 #74
Thanks for another powerful poem. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #91
My condolences. We lost our dog on the 18th. She had extensive cancer and the doc said she'd SlimJimmy Dec 2023 #80
My sympathy, the vet said my dog may have had cancer. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #94
I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious girl. So glad she was surrounded niyad Dec 2023 #113
Thank you. We were with ther until the end. SlimJimmy Dec 2023 #153
So sorry you lost such a good friend of so many years. Ligyron Dec 2023 #82
Thanks Ligyron, and Best Wishes finding your pup, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #96
Our Friends and Our Children Camaromjr Dec 2023 #84
Thank you, and welcome to DU. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #98
AnotherDreamWeaver, I am so sorry. Not Heidi Dec 2023 #92
Thank you for the reply, I take comfort in knowing there were characters like him. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #99
I have a cat who does the same thing. Not Heidi Dec 2023 #108
My dog was Zeke. The cat is Walter. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #130
I am so sorry for your loss (your four legged friend will always be with you in spirit). waterwatcher123 Dec 2023 #93
Thanks waterwatcher123, and welcome to DU, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #100
I am so sorry for your loss. virgdem Dec 2023 #95
I'm so sorry for your loss. virgdem Dec 2023 #97
Thank you, and best wishes for our new year. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #101
Thanks for the best wishes. virgdem Dec 2023 #104
I am so sorry for your loss LetMyPeopleVote Dec 2023 #102
Thanks, he was one of the best in this family. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #103
So so sorry montanacowboy Dec 2023 #105
Dreams we have had, AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #106
Some dreams we never forget montanacowboy Dec 2023 #128
Stay encouraged, AnotherDreamWeaver. You are loved. littlemissmartypants Dec 2023 #107
Thank you, yes DU has a lot of love. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #131
I'm sorry for the loss of your friend and family member. marble falls Dec 2023 #109
Thank you marble falls, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #132
I am so sorry... Trueblue Texan Dec 2023 #111
Thank you for your kind thoughts. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #133
Your best friend Ladythatvotesblue Dec 2023 #112
Thank you, and welcome to DU. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #134
Shalom, AnotherDreamWeaver, peace be with you. thatcrowwoman Dec 2023 #114
When I drive in I look for him to come greet me. When I walk in the living room I look for him on the couch. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #135
i'm so sorry barbtries Dec 2023 #115
Thank you barbtries. There is bare land and there are parcels with a house. It is just 10 miles from the coast AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #136
I am very sorry for your loss JoseBalow Dec 2023 #116
Sympathy accepted, thanks. Behind my loss were some great joys. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #137
So sorry. Elessar Zappa Dec 2023 #117
And his biggest problem is "do I want to lay in my sunny spot, or the shady one?" nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #138
Aw poor dog. So glad you gave him such a wonderful life. Saoirse9 Dec 2023 #118
Thank you Saoirse9, and my sympathy on the passing of the 'old man', AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #139
Our Petey was 13. A rescue. Saoirse9 Dec 2023 #149
Thank you, and much joy to you & yours too. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #151
He will live forever in your heart. ZonkerHarris Dec 2023 #119
Yes. And when I was a kid the neidghbors down the street woke up Thanksgiving morning to find their father had died. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #140
Lost our dog 1 year and 1 month to the day after losing my son crimycarny Dec 2023 #120
Sorry to hear about your son. I'll listen some morning to the meditation. Thank you. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #141
Very sad to hear about your pup orangecrush Dec 2023 #121
Thanks for sharing your sympathy orangecrush. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #142
I'm so sorry about your beloved dog Wicked Blue Dec 2023 #122
Thanks for the hug. Hugs back, AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #143
I'm so sorry cate94 Dec 2023 #123
Thank you cate94. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #144
I am so very sorry for your losses UpInArms Dec 2023 #124
Thank you UpInArms, hugs back, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #145
All bodies fail, and our hearts break. We all recognize your pain Attilatheblond Dec 2023 #125
Thank you Attilatheblond, I laughed to read your name. AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #146
You are welcome Another Dream Weaver Attilatheblond Dec 2023 #159
I'm.so very sorry JustAnotherGen Dec 2023 #126
Thanks for the sympathy nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #147
Hugs Duncanpup Dec 2023 #127
& hugs back Duncanpup, nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #148
I am sorry, my friend gay texan Dec 2023 #129
Thank you gay texan, & yes, I spoke with a neighbor today about this. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #150
Front garden Arne Dec 2023 #152
Thanks, (I have some potery from an Arne from Flagstaff AZ, any relation?) nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #154
I wish, Arne Dec 2023 #157
I took a class in college, still have a couple of things. Go for it. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #158
Ohh....... I am so sorry, ADW Bayard Dec 2023 #155
Thank you Bayard, you take care too. And I wish us all a better New Year. nt AnotherDreamWeaver Dec 2023 #156

Irish_Dem

(58,644 posts)
2. There are tears in my eyes reading this ADW.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 08:43 PM
Dec 2023

I have gone through the same thing and it is heartbreaking.
Giving you a very big hug.

ret5hd

(21,320 posts)
3. i don't think anyone will have a friend better than a dog.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 08:44 PM
Dec 2023

completely forgiving
completely loving

i feel for you brother/sister.

dflprincess

(28,497 posts)
4. I am so sorry
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 08:47 PM
Dec 2023

The only thing wrong with a dog is that, sooner or later, they break your heart. He sounds like he was an exceptional pal.

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
13. He always wanted to go with me. When I would tell him he had to stay it would break his heart.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:05 PM
Dec 2023

He was always running out to greet me when I arrived back home.

OAITW r.2.0

(28,478 posts)
5. I feel your pain.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 08:50 PM
Dec 2023

Had a great Golden Retriever named KC Jones back in the 80s.. KC for sort. Great dog. Broke his hind leg jumping for a tennis ball. 3 months of rehab and the vet tells us that he had bone cancer, totally in his bones. See you Casey...you and Buddha and Buffett still survive in the Skippa!

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
22. He had the best life. He could jump the fences and wander at will, but seldom did.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:23 PM
Dec 2023

I have a neighbor who walks her dog around sunset. She said one day she found my dog and my cat two parcels away. They were buddies, and the cat misses him too.

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
27. Thanks, I lost my dad on fathers day eve about 10 years ago.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:32 PM
Dec 2023

That was easier, he had cancer, was on hospice so we were expecting it.













 

Laura PourMeADrink

(42,770 posts)
110. Lol. Our dog can jump a 6' chainlink. So get we cant do that lol
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 11:38 AM
Dec 2023

Always think about the unconditional love. Like a comedian I heard one time...

"Lock your mate and your dog in the car trunk for three hours. Which one will be happy to see you?"

Deuxcents

(19,919 posts)
15. Your Dear friend and your partner will know you
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:09 PM
Dec 2023

When you reach the bridge to heaven when it’s your time. It is painful to lose a loved one and I’m sure you are a blessing to those who know you just by your words here. I wish you peace Dream Weaver

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
34. Thanks Deuxcents, So far I'm willing to meet them in dreams, but I still enjoy life enough
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:41 PM
Dec 2023

I'm not looking for the bridge.

niyad

(120,328 posts)
18. Lady of the Beasts, please take Your little one gently home in your loving arms,
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:15 PM
Dec 2023

Last edited Sat Dec 30, 2023, 12:54 PM - Edit history (1)

and send peace and comfort to his grieving loved ones.

I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious boy. Please know that all of us who are owned by the furpeople are grieving with you. And sorry as well for the loss of your partner. Your DU family is here for you. Lean as hard as you need.

If it would help you at all, in the Pet forum, we have a Memorial section. where people can share photos of their fur children.

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
160. 2 photos of Zeke a friend sent via email.
Fri Jan 12, 2024, 05:18 PM
Jan 2024

IMG_20211230_115900.jpg
This is by the “Phone Booth” where folks with cell phones can get reception.


IMG_20211230_114552.jpg
This is Zeke at the front door. There is a lot of reflection in the glass door making it look like a double exposure.

I sure miss him and think of him a lot.
(I checked this in preview and I just get jpg numbers, I checked to see how to post pictures, went to IMGUR but to sign in they want a phone number they can text me to. I don't have a cell phone. If you private message me your email address I can send you two. Maybe you could post them to this link.)

Kali

(55,820 posts)
21. I am not especially enamored of emergency vets.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:18 PM
Dec 2023

give me an older large-animal country vet who deals in reality.
sorry for your loss.
don't feel any guilt for not spending more on the crisis, they get you in your emotions and have the technology to do all kinds of things that probably aren't the best idea for animals.

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
43. Thanks Kali, my good fortune I had the money, but I didn't have the wherewithall to drive
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:58 PM
Dec 2023

somewhere I didn't know the roads.

 

SarahD

(1,732 posts)
23. The part that sucks
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:24 PM
Dec 2023

Being in a dog-human relationship is generally very happy and positive. This is the part that sucks, as my brother said when he lost his dog buddy.

FloridaBlues

(4,376 posts)
25. It is so hard to say good bye to our fur babies. Take time to grief for
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:26 PM
Dec 2023

Your beloved dog. In time another one will put a smile on your face.
Your area sounds beautiful. Here’s hoping for a new start in 2024. One day at a time.

Frasier Balzov

(3,521 posts)
28. Here's a saying I like:
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:34 PM
Dec 2023

If we are lucky, we leave this life with multiple pet-shaped holes in our heart.

Kindest comfort to you at this time of yet another loss.

Life is still worth living. It may surprise you how worthwhile!

Permanut

(6,697 posts)
31. The cycles of life are hard sometimes..
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:37 PM
Dec 2023

Thanks for sharing your story. So he could open doors - We haven't had a pup that could do that, and I'm not gonna let Jake the Chihuahua know about that trick.

Hotler

(12,300 posts)
38. 'Epitaph to a Dog' Lord Byron 1808
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 09:50 PM
Dec 2023

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epitaph_to_a_Dog
https://poets.org/poem/epitaph-dog

When some proud Son of Man returns to Earth,
Unknown to Glory but upheld by Birth,
The sculptor's art exhausts the pomp of woe,
And storied urns record who rests below:
When all is done, upon the Tomb is seen
Not what he was, but what he should have been.
But the poor Dog, in life the firmest friend,
The first to welcome, foremost to defend,
Whose honest heart is still his Master's own,
Who labours, fights, lives, breathes for him alone,
Unhonour'd falls, unnotic'd all his worth,
Deny'd in heaven the Soul he held on earth:
While man, vain insect! hopes to be forgiven,
And claims himself a sole exclusive heaven.
Oh man! thou feeble tenant of an hour,
Debas'd by slavery, or corrupt by power,
Who knows thee well, must quit thee with disgust,
Degraded mass of animated dust!
Thy love is lust, thy friendship all a cheat,
Thy tongue hypocrisy, thy heart deceit!
By nature vile, ennobled but by name,
Each kindred brute might bid thee blush for shame.
Ye! who behold perchance this simple urn,
Pass on, it honors none you wish to mourn.
To mark a friend's remains these stones arise;
I never knew but one—and here he lies.

Mr.Bill

(24,821 posts)
47. He sounds like a great dog that left you with a lot
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 10:01 PM
Dec 2023

of wonderful memories. One of my dogs is entering her final chapter, I think. She's a rescue mutt that is at least 16 years old. we've had her since 2009. She is still eating okay and doesn't appear to be in any pain, but she is mostly blind and deaf. When the time comes, we will let her go, and have our memories of our own.

Skittles

(159,785 posts)
49. so very sorry
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 10:03 PM
Dec 2023

it's so hard to lose our fur babies

Grieve not
nor speak of me with tears
but laugh and talk of me
as if I were beside you
I loved you so
’twas Heaven here with you

- Isla Paschal Richardson

LoisB

(8,833 posts)
55. I am so sorry.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 10:16 PM
Dec 2023

I am also sorry for the loss of your partner. Sharing a loss does not lessen the grief for that loss but many shoulders can bear more than two.

BigmanPigman

(52,328 posts)
59. There is NEVER a "good time" to say good bye.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 10:23 PM
Dec 2023

And they never, ever live long enough.

I know this very well. All of the wishes on the birthday cake candles I blew during my lifetime were the same, "Make my baby live forever" since I knew/know how brutal it is and always will be to lose them. A dog is more than a mere "best friend". Rainbow Bridge made me sad. They said we would reunite after I die but while I am still alive how do you continue and go on like it has been, every single day of our shared lives of non-stop kisses, tail wags and unconditional love. People do not do this, dogs always do this. That is why I feel they are above humans in many ways.

Joinfortmill

(16,535 posts)
60. Your friend is still with you..
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 10:24 PM
Dec 2023

And will be for as long as you need him. How do I know this? Because I am old, and when you are old the Universe whispers to you. You just need to listen. Peace to you, my fellow traveler.

usonian

(14,220 posts)
62. I'll bet that you gave your dog the best damn life a dog could ever have.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 10:28 PM
Dec 2023

Take comfort in that. It’s the survivors who grieve.

I’m up in the Sierra foothills, and have one of those boulders sitting on my west slope. I estimate it at 50 tons. Other rocks are perched precariously on rocky slopes. I haven’t had a geologist up here, but the best guess as to their placement is that a glacier lifted them up and left them in place when it receded. It’s easy to stop pushing a rock uphill and damn hard to stop it from falling — onto a three-point landing!

There is healing power in nature, in music and in good friends. May you have them in abundance.

peacebuzzard

(5,282 posts)
64. I understand your pain,
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 10:31 PM
Dec 2023

it hurts so much to lose a best friend. It is so hard to share in words the depth of the loss. I am so very sorry for you and your friend was so brave trying to hide his pain from you. He knew; he didn't want to cause you another loss.
I have also had stories I didn't share because it hurt so much. And thank you for sharing, it helps all of us who have had losses by sharing your brief story of your best friend. Hugs, ((()))) Your post brought many memories of my sweet friends, my kids I used to call them who sadly have completed their lives with me. Best wishes for the New Year.

MontanaMama

(24,062 posts)
66. I wish I could hug you.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 10:36 PM
Dec 2023

I’m so so sorry for your loss. I wish I’d known your beloved dog. What an amazing soul. These are very hard days, I know.

rambler_american

(850 posts)
74. The Power of a Dog
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 11:06 PM
Dec 2023

The Power of the Dog

Rudyard Kipling
1865 –1936

There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
And when we are certain of sorrow in store,
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.

Buy a pup and your money will buy
Love unflinching that cannot lie—
Perfect passion and worship fed
By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head.
Nevertheless it is hardly fair
To risk your heart for a dog to tear.

When the fourteen years which Nature permits
Are closing in asthma, or tumour, or fits,
And the vet’s unspoken prescription runs
To lethal chambers or loaded guns,
Then you will find—it’s your own affair—
But… you’ve given your heart to a dog to tear.

When the body that lived at your single will,
With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!).
When the spirit that answered your every mood
Is gone—wherever it goes—for good,
You will discover how much you care,
And will give your heart to a dog to tear.

We’ve sorrow enough in the natural way,
When it comes to burying Christian clay.
Our loves are not given, but only lent,
At compound interest of cent per cent.
Though it is not always the case, I believe,
That the longer we’ve kept ’em, the more do we grieve:
For, when debts are payable, right or wrong,
A short-time loan is as bad as a long—
So why in—Heaven (before we are there)
Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear?

This poem is in the public domain.

SlimJimmy

(3,251 posts)
80. My condolences. We lost our dog on the 18th. She had extensive cancer and the doc said she'd
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 11:25 PM
Dec 2023

live about two more weeks. It was two weeks to the day when she passed. Even though she was 15 years old, it was like losing a family member; a lot of tears were shed. The good news is that she died in her sleep at home in her bed. A gentle passing for a truly gentle dog.

niyad

(120,328 posts)
113. I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious girl. So glad she was surrounded
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 01:03 PM
Dec 2023

by love as she crossed.

SlimJimmy

(3,251 posts)
153. Thank you. We were with ther until the end.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 10:43 PM
Dec 2023

She got lots of pets and kisses before she fell asleep and passed.

Ligyron

(7,904 posts)
82. So sorry you lost such a good friend of so many years.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 11:26 PM
Dec 2023

Who has had a dog and never lost it? Yet after a time, sorrow gives way to pleasant memories and even laughter at all the fun, all the adventures that were once had together and the downright crazy things our friends did sometimes.

I too had a little friend I lost not too long ago and I've got this crazy idea recently he may have been reincarnated and I'll be darned if I'm not just crazy enough to go look for him too.

Something tells me I'm going to find him.

Camaromjr

(43 posts)
84. Our Friends and Our Children
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 11:35 PM
Dec 2023

Pets bring out the very best in us. It is the passing of a beloved family member.

Peace

Not Heidi

(1,462 posts)
92. AnotherDreamWeaver, I am so sorry.
Fri Dec 29, 2023, 11:57 PM
Dec 2023

I wish I had other words for you, some that would be capable of imparting the comfort I mean to convey.

I'm so sorry you've lost your dog. 🫂

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
99. Thank you for the reply, I take comfort in knowing there were characters like him.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 12:14 AM
Dec 2023

He would find a stick and parade around with it, in a "look what I got" manner, but never bring it to be thrown. If I picked up a stick or ball and tossed it he would get it but never deliver.

Not Heidi

(1,462 posts)
108. I have a cat who does the same thing.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 06:00 AM
Dec 2023

Silly creeches. We love them beyond measure.

May I ask, what was your dog's name?

virgdem

(2,207 posts)
95. I am so sorry for your loss.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 12:01 AM
Dec 2023

It's so hard losing our best friends. I still grieve kitties that I lost over 20 years ago.

Wishing you peace and light at this difficult time. 💔

virgdem

(2,207 posts)
97. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 12:02 AM
Dec 2023

It's so hard losing our best friends. I still grieve kitties that I lost over 20 years ago.

Wishing you peace and light at this difficult time. 💔

virgdem

(2,207 posts)
104. Thanks for the best wishes.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 01:25 AM
Dec 2023

May you have a very happy new year. Who knows, maybe a new best friend will appear when you least expect it.

montanacowboy

(6,321 posts)
105. So so sorry
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 02:33 AM
Dec 2023

we pet owners all know we have to feel this pain when the day comes; it's like a knife to your heart. I remember having a dream a long time ago not long after I had lost two Aussies. I was standing in a house with large windows and looked out the window and saw a bus; my two Aussie girls were on the bus. When I saw them I was overjoyed and ran out to get on the bus when I was somehow stopped and I heard them saying, no, you can't get on the bus this time, and they drove away. It took me a while to get over that but I feel the message was clear. We all take that bus in our own time and hopefully we will be reunited.
Peace.

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
106. Dreams we have had,
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 03:09 AM
Dec 2023

Your note reminded me of a dream I had during my early college days. I spent the night above a mortuary having accepted the job of answering the phone if there was a body to be picked up. The place to stay didn't cost anything it was in exchange for answering the phone. If I would help going out to pick up bodies I would be paid for that time. In the dream I had that night I was in a church kneeling at an alter, there were candles burning in a rack off to my right. I was asking in my prayer "What is real?" And a voice finally answered "It's all real." That caused me to laugh and cry at the same time. I went out a side door of the church and sat on some steps in an alcove that led up to the door. Several of my friends came by on the sidewalk and asked if I was alright as I sat there laughing and crying. All I could do was thank them for their concern and tell them i was just fine. Waking up from that dream I felt I wasn't ready for that big a hit of religion, excused myself from the job and took the job out of town staying in a trailer helping a father in the mornings and the son in the afternoons milk their cows on a dairy. Thank you for the reply montanacowboy, I feel reunited with his spirit every time I think of him.

montanacowboy

(6,321 posts)
128. Some dreams we never forget
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 07:24 PM
Dec 2023

those that we remember have a deep and special meaning and maybe they are meant to guide us

Trueblue Texan

(2,972 posts)
111. I am so sorry...
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 11:49 AM
Dec 2023

I know the depths of that grief, how I know. My heart aches for you and I hope your grief is somehow lightened by joyful memories of your best friend. Peace and love to you.

thatcrowwoman

(1,230 posts)
114. Shalom, AnotherDreamWeaver, peace be with you.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 01:07 PM
Dec 2023

What a wonderful life you shared, and what a profound loss of your best friend.
He’s still snuggled deep in your heart and soul and memories, yes?
Many thanks for sharing here, where someone is always here for you
as you mourn your loss and celebrate your lives entwined.

May you be surrounded by love and light, by protection, and by peace, that sweet shalom,
and may you always find whatever help you may need.
🕊🩵💫🎶thatcrowwoman

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
135. When I drive in I look for him to come greet me. When I walk in the living room I look for him on the couch.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 09:33 PM
Dec 2023

Today I went to visit a friend and neighbor who is 92. We watched a Gay Liberation Documentary on Los Angles activists. Learned some things.

barbtries

(29,884 posts)
115. i'm so sorry
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 01:28 PM
Dec 2023

for both of your losses.

So you had a great loss associated with Thanksgiving and now another one associated with Christmas. As if the holidays aren't hard enough already for many of us.

both of my parents died on 23Nov, my dad in 1968 and mom in 1980. Their anniversary fell on thanksgiving this year.

my oldest son might be interested in that land - is it already developed? He lives in LA but is wanting to move north, but wherever he goes he must be near the ocean.

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
136. Thank you barbtries. There is bare land and there are parcels with a house. It is just 10 miles from the coast
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 09:41 PM
Dec 2023

but it takes 30 minutes to reach the coast at Fort Ross. If he wants to be closer and on paved roads he might check out Timber Cove properties. Further North is The Sea Ranch.

Elessar Zappa

(16,010 posts)
117. So sorry.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 02:03 PM
Dec 2023

Losing a beloved family member is awful, I’ve been there. I firmly believe your dog is in the happy hunting grounds of his dreams.

Saoirse9

(3,815 posts)
118. Aw poor dog. So glad you gave him such a wonderful life.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 02:06 PM
Dec 2023

Your place sounds like a dog's paradise. A human's paradise too. Thank you for sharing your story I loved reading it. You'll miss him. But he's at peace and out of pain.

We lost our dog about a month ago. We have another dog who we adore but I miss the old man so much. He had a quirky personality and made us laugh a lot.

We have all had to say goodbye to beloved dogs. Not all of us have had to say goodbye to our partner of decades though. That must have been wrenching. Be kind to yourself.

A happy and Healthy New Year to you.

Much love.

Saoirse9

(3,815 posts)
149. Our Petey was 13. A rescue.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 10:29 PM
Dec 2023

He had a very rough first 4 years and then we gave him a happy life. I will always miss him and wish that we could have given him a completely pain free existence. I know that sounds silly.

I wish you joy in your little slice of paradise.

ZonkerHarris

(25,331 posts)
119. He will live forever in your heart.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 02:30 PM
Dec 2023

I too had to make a hard choice 6 years ago on Christmas Day to end my dogs suffering.
worst Holiday ever

AnotherDreamWeaver

(2,886 posts)
140. Yes. And when I was a kid the neidghbors down the street woke up Thanksgiving morning to find their father had died.
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 10:05 PM
Dec 2023

The loss on a holiday seems to have more impact. My sympathy,

crimycarny

(1,638 posts)
120. Lost our dog 1 year and 1 month to the day after losing my son
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 03:01 PM
Dec 2023

I'm so sorry for the loss of your partner and your dog. I lost my son to suicide almost two years ago (it will be two years in January of 2024). We adopted/rescued our dog when my son was around 8 years old. It was the first dog our kids had. He was a flat-coated Retriever, a breed I'd never heard of until we adopted our beloved FCR.

My son grew very close to Chewie, our FCR. He used some form of the name "Chewie" in all of his social media accounts.

Needless to say, our worlds were destroyed when my son died (we had no idea he was struggling--he hid it well). When my son died Chewie was 17 years old, which is very unusual for a Flat Coated Retriever as they have an average life span of 8-10 years due to a tendency towards cancer. Chewie lasted another year and 1 month to the day after my son's death. I swear he hung on to help our family through that first terrible year.

Right before reading your post, I was listening to a guided meditation that helps you visit your past loved ones in the spirit world. I pictured meeting my son in a beautiful place with Chewie by his side.

Not sure if it will help you but here is the guided meditation. It's about 16 minutes in when you envision your loved one. It was very powerful for me.

?si=ddC0iuXeWBSzPTdM

Again, so sorry for your loss. Grief is so very very hard.

Attilatheblond

(4,376 posts)
125. All bodies fail, and our hearts break. We all recognize your pain
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 04:56 PM
Dec 2023

But love, well, it lasts, and in time, may you see that love you got and gave is still with you, in a different form. You'll see it, he will find a way to let you know.

Be kind to yourself, he would probably insist on that.

Attilatheblond

(4,376 posts)
159. You are welcome Another Dream Weaver
Sun Dec 31, 2023, 05:10 PM
Dec 2023

My nick name was given to me by a dear friend who really got my character. LOL

I do hope you are doing as well as can be expected after such a loss. Wishing you peace and lovely memories.

gay texan

(2,890 posts)
129. I am sorry, my friend
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 07:24 PM
Dec 2023

But just know, when you are ready, there is another 4 legged soul waiting for its forever home.

Time is needed

Arne

(3,606 posts)
152. Front garden
Sat Dec 30, 2023, 10:43 PM
Dec 2023

Our two Yorkie mutts are buried there.
What I remember is they had long good lives.
So sorry.

Arne

(3,606 posts)
157. I wish,
Sun Dec 31, 2023, 10:03 AM
Dec 2023

Actually have the wheel and a kiln but
found out it's not my thing.
May attempt a cup for the new year. lol

Bayard

(24,145 posts)
155. Ohh....... I am so sorry, ADW
Sun Dec 31, 2023, 01:52 AM
Dec 2023

It never gets any easier to lose our fur kids. It leaves a big hole in your heart. Rest assured, he knew that you loved him.

We're with you on losing your partner too. There are always strong shoulders to cry on, and hugs to be had.

Take care of yourself, and keep us posted.

Peace.

Latest Discussions»Culture Forums»Rural/Farm Life»My dog has died.