Hi everyone, I’ve just joined this forum because I lost my dog this Saturday, 29/01/22. A little 16-year-old Chihuahua. I loved him more than anything in the world; I had to have him put to sleep, and it was the worst day of my life. Now, I’m not afraid of anything anymore, because after the courage it takes to do that, I honestly wouldn’t care if I died. My pain is immense. He was my little boy and we had such an incredible bond. I’m crying every minute, every second; I can’t accept that he’s no longer by my side, it hurts too much. He’d gone deaf and blind and two of his legs were paralysed. We kept him going regardless; we’d set him up in a little baby playpen and he was doing alright, he was happy enough despite everything. But over the last four days we had to take him to the vet several times; he became paralysed in all four legs this time and he was crying non-stop, day and night. He was suffering because he couldn’t sit up anymore, he was in pain... in the end, we had to make the decision to have him put to sleep. I held him in my arms until his very last breath; I didn’t leave him for a single second during the procedure, even though I felt like I might collapse myself, but I stayed strong for him until the end. I kept him in my arms. I can’t seem to get over the grief; I keep replaying that awful moment in my head over and over, wondering if I made the right choice... I’m just lost. My grief is so heavy, people just don't understand. I talk to him all the time, even though he's gone. 😞
Translated from French
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As heartbreaking as losing a dog is—and believe me, I know what I’m talking about, having always had pets—I think a bit of restraint wouldn’t go amiss. It’s as if you’ve forgotten the state of the world today, where every day people are losing friends, relatives, brothers, husbands, children... and I know what I’m talking about there, too. Sorry, but my compassion is for those people. And for those here who aren't allowed to die with dignity. At least we can offer our pets that, as long as we aren't being selfish. I’m not one for performative empathy. My heart goes out to the children, men, and women around us who are struggling in silence, not just to live, but to survive. Pull yourselves together! Go and adopt a rescue and give them your love in memory of your dog!
I don’t want to start a row, but let’s keep things in perspective.
We are on a forum dedicated to animals.
Expressing your grief after losing a pet seems completely justified to me (and having had to put down every dog I’ve owned for over 50 years, I also know what I’m talking about).
And every single time, it has absolutely destroyed me.
And believe me, people in this country aren't just "surviving". I’ve had many opportunities to spend a lot of time in so-called "developing" countries, and I’ve seen what real survival actually looks like.
You have every right to be annoyed by certain reactions, but it’s perhaps not the best time to mention it to someone who has just come here looking for a bit of compassion and support.
Good evening Sab, I also have boundless love for my Coton, so I truly understand your pain. It’s such a beautiful act of love to have let them go; you held them close until their very last breath, and you’ve been a very brave 'mummy'. I really hope you can find support from those around you, as it’s so important to be able to express your grief and talk about your beloved one who’s passed... you have my deepest sympathy!
Of course you did the right thing!
And you know, dogs handle death much better than we do; they know when it’s their time...
My neighbour recently had to have her 17-year-old Pinscher cross put to sleep. She was devastated, especially as she feels she’s too old and hasn't got the money to get another dog (so she spoils mine even more now).
Personally, I’ve been really shaken by some unexpected losses, but the ones that are more expected (due to age or illness) aren't as traumatising for me. It’s just the natural course of life.
Hi there, it’s such an act of love and bravery to let your dog go when they are suffering. There was nothing more that could be done; I know how incredibly tough it is, but your little fur baby just couldn't go on any longer. Please don't feel guilty. It's all so recent... but in time, you'll be able to think back on all the lovely moments you shared. Sending you lots of strength.
The bond you can have with a dog is so incredibly strong. I’ve never had a dog myself, but I can well imagine. Rather than dwelling on that awful moment when you had to put him to sleep (I know how hard it is, we had to do it with our cat too), try to remember the happy times and the wonderful life you gave him. The love we feel for an animal is sometimes just the same as for a human, even if we don't speak the same language. It's something a lot of people just don't get. Sixteen is a grand old age for that breed. Because of you, he had a long and happy life. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
