I would advise you to stop reading now if you don't want to start crying uncontrollably.
Animal enthusiast and Twitter user @jessi dietrich recently wrote about a question she asked her veterinarian and the heartbreaking response she received.
"Asked my vet what the hardest part of his job was &he said when he has to put an animal down 90% of owners don't actually want to be in the room when he injects them thus the animal's dying minutes are usually them desperately looking around for their owners & honestly it crushed me," she posted on July 26.
The veterinarian described it to when your closest friend is needed most but isn't present. It's difficult not to relate to the frantic feeling, which I'm sure we've all experienced at least once in our lives. While writing this, my eyes are literally watering.
Since she tweeted this extremely upsetting truth, her message has received hundreds of comments, more than 140,000 likes, and 41,000 retweets.
The majority of the comments came from other pet owners who had endured staying with their dying animals through euthanasia. Many people commented on how difficult their decisions were. But nearly all of the animal lovers concurred that they merely wished to provide their dogs with love and calm in their final moments.
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Unsurprisingly, many more people expressed contempt at pet parents for truly leaving their furry pals alone in their time of greatest need.
The OP replied to her many commenters who had expressed how sad they felt after seeing her tweet once it started to gain traction.
"I just wanted to raise awareness; I didn't mean to break anyone's heart!" She said, "I'm very sorry:).
It appears that she was successful in raising awareness. Shortly after her tweet went viral, an animal hospital in New Zealand published a message on its Facebook page with the similar title, "from a tired, broken-hearted vet."
They look for their loved one in every face in the room, according to the Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital post. They're sick, afraid, old, or dying of cancer, and they need your comfort. They don't understand why you left them. The person goes on to label folks who don't stay with their pets as cowards.
Although this article drew some criticism for its use of violent language, the majority of the other comments were supportive, and many pet owners felt that it's crucial to stay by the side of a dying animal.
The Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital's message received 128,000 shares and 24,000 likes, much like the previous tweet.
I, for one, firmly believe that family pets should remain with their owners until death. So whatever you stand on this issue, right about now you should go give your favorite furry child a big bear hug.
I couldn't leave them if I wanted to............................
replydeleteMy first pet that needed to be put down was taken from my hands and taken to the back room. I wasn't even offered to stay with him. That was close to 40 year ago. I cried all the to moms, and I have tears in my eyes writing about it now. I didn't know I had a choice. But never went back to that office until the vet group changed.
deleteI had my precious Chloe dog put to sleep in my arms, in my house, with family gathered around us!! She went peacefully, while I hugged her and kissed her! It hurt so bad, but she wasn't alone!! I got a beautiful box, with her ashes in it, sealed, a foot print in ceramic, and some of her fur in a glass tube, ties with ribbon! I still cry for her and miss her immensely. It meant a lot to me to stay with her till the end!! She's with my husband, her Daddy, waiting for me!! I'm always going to be sad, but happy for the 11 years she gave us!!!
deleteThey need us to be there as we do as well, even if we don't realize it. We have put three dogs to rest over the years and have stayed with all of them to their last breath. Yes, it's heartbreaking, but, it is comfort to the dog and closure for the owner. Stay with them !!!!!
replydeleteI totally agree...it's the last most important act of love you can do for the animal that has been a part of your family for so long. The hardest part is making that decision to put your much loved family member to sleep, staying with them as they cross that rainbow bridge is as important as feeding them or taking them for their vaccinations. If you can't give that comfort to you loyal fur baby then you don't deserve to have them!
deleteYes 💔🥲
deleteI’ve been there also. Three times. And I’m glad I did.
deleteI would only put my dog down if in extreme pain. To me if you put a dog down due to age, you are a coward!! They love you so take care of them until they die!! I will be with my q7 year old until she takes her last breath. She is partially blind and can't hear much, but that is no reason to put her down. She goes to the vet and is as healthy as she can be for her age.
replydeletei wouldnt be waiting until they were in extreme pain its also their quality of life that you have to consider
deleteYou don’t put down grandpa because he gets old, I’d only do it if it was absolutely medically necessary or if they were experiencing pain that can’t be treated.
deleteMy girl didn't appear to be in extreme pain but was struggling to breathe as her lungs were full of fluid. There are many different medical reasons why euthanasia is necessary. I was absolutely with her to the end 🐾💗
deleteMy boy is 15 and has been by my side through good and bad no matter what always licking my tears and enjoying the good days. I will be there until his final breath as heartbreaking as it will be he will not feel alone or lost at the final moments
deleteI had to put my 5 year old sweet Lexie girl down about a year and a half ago and when the time comes for other 2 pitties, I will be there with them, the last thing I want them to amis my face, they have been with me through it all and every single day they wake up wagging their tails and kissing me, they are loyal to the end, it is the least that we can do for all of the love they give us♥️♥️♥️
replydeleteI had to put my precious Meisha down and the vet would not let me be with her. I now have a different vet but that horrible experience will never go away.
deleteMy husband and I have been given the devastating news the our Bichon Shitzu “Lucy” has
replydeleteBeen given a limited time to live. We will stay by her side till the very end, be it euthanized or
Otherwise we want our faces to be the last she will see,
😇
deleteI totally agree as hard as it is to see your loved pet being put to sleep they need you there and it’s very quick and painless for your pet I’ve had to do this 3 times in my life and it’s hard but important for our beloved pet to be there at the last moment I have never regretted it and never will
replydeleteI too have been there for all of my dogs in the end. I always made the vet come to the house where my dogs are most comfortable. I will always be there for them as they were for me. It’s a love in a bond through all time.
deleteWas with everyone at their last breadth
replydeleteI’ve done this four times, heartbreaking though it is, I’d never dream of leaving my dog to go through this on their own. I owe it to everyone of them, to show the the ultimate sacrifice. All my dogs have shared my life, been my best friend. They’ve share every sad and every happy occasion with me. It never gets any easier, each time I’ve done it I’ve been totally heartbroken. I dread the day I have to do it with my present fur baby, hopefully that’s a long way off. 🌈 💔 🐾
replydeleteMy beloved dog kept leaving the room and I think he didn't want me to see him pass away. He started having seizures so we rushed him to the vet but he passed away on the way. I just wish I had been more comforting instead of crying but I was holding him so at least he wasn't alone. He had heart failure and we fought hard for him for six months but his heart just couldn't go any more. He was 15 years old.
replydeleteI just lost two brothers within four months of each one. One we did "put down" as they say as he hadn't eaten for 12 days and was suffering. The next one all of a sudden started acting strange one late evening , hiding from us, etc., he finally fell asleep and woke up with a loud scream that everyone in the house heard it. Then he started to have seizures. The closest emergency vet was over an hour away and we didn't think he'd last. He did last for about 5 hours and it was horrible to watch. If we had any idea it was going to be like this and knew he was about to die, we would have definitely gone to have him put out of his misery. I was with all my dogs who have died. One died after being hit by a car and he got up and ran to me. Died in the car on the way to the vet. I would never leave my dogs alone to die without me.
deleteI thought they’re put asleep before they get injected with the shot, so do they mean they’re looking frantically before that part?? Family friend just had to do this and said she was holding him and they gave a shot that made him sleep so hard that he was snoring, and she cradled him a bit longer until they gave the other shot :(
replydeleteits one injection
deleteMy vet does give them a calming injection/sleep then the final shot and listen for the heart to stop beating.
deleteIts one shot - Just had to have my two dogs, (Miniature Schnauzers), put to sleep within six weeks of each other. I asked for it to be done, in both cases, on my lap. Its upset both me and my cat as all three were never apart. He always came in the car with them and did on those fatal days, but stayed in the car. They had all slept together and shared a bed. We had to go through it, but I kept it as normal as possible.
deleteWhen we had to put my fur baby to sleep 10 months ago, the vet said she would give her a sedative if needed to keep her calm when she started her iv for the final drug (she never needed it)…they did push two drugs in her iv but it was essentially instant. The vet then listened to her heart as Roxy’s eyes stayed open. I have never cried so hard but would never change looking into her eyes as she crossed over. I miss her so very much and think about her every day.
deleteDreading the day...
replydeleteOnce upon a time you were not allowed to be with the dog. When one of my dogs died at home the other stayed with him right up to the end.. When she had to be put to sleep I was glad to stay with her and just as she died she lifted her head and licked my face..
replydeleteThat is exactly what my Tibetan Spaniel Rikki did. That morning he told me it was time. He went outside and sat in the middle of yard in the rain. Brought him inside to dry him then took him to the vet. He lay on the table and as vet gave the injection, he looked at me and licked my tears away. Then he was gone and l gently closed his eyes. The vet and l were both in tears
deleteI wouldn’t be anywhere else but right by their side.
replydeleteIt is just the same for cats. I have stayed by their side to reassure and comfort each of my cats during their last moments, and each time, they have looked into my eyes.
replydelete
replydeleteOur beautiful Macy (lab/shepherd mix) was only five years old. We were on vacation and our kids texted us that she was sick, salivating while she was trying to drink, vomiting. We got home and the once most beautiful, healthy dog was skeletal. She was suffering and we had to get her to the vet. She was so small and limp. We held her paws as the injection was admiistered, watched her close her eyes forever. It’s so hard, but sometimes the kindest thing you can do for a beloved pet.
My wee dog died in my arms as we fell asleep together.I’m glad that myself and my other dachshund were present as she is settled and not seeking him out❤️
replydeleteI’ve always been with every dog I’ve had when they cross rainbow bridge
replydeleteThey need your cuddles and kisses till the very end
Yes it’s heartbreaking 💔 but you wouldn’t leave your family on their own if they were near the end of life
I always say never again. . No more dogs 🐶 then someone says . . .
Can you rescue this fur baby looking for a home . . . You say yes .
Here we go again 🫶🐾🐾
totally agree
deleteI stayed with mine. Put them in the bag and carried her to the storage freezer. I did not want her to be touched by anyone else. That was a VERY FUd day. I still cry when I think of her. Time does NOT heal all wounds. The link is to a poem about her that got published.
replydeleteI have stayed with my animals to the very end. It breaks my heart but they are with someone who loves them and they love. I could never hand my baby to the vet and walk away. When you get a pet it’s for their whole life or your entire life. I don’t know how anyone could leave their scared pet with a stranger to to be put to sleep. It’s heartbreaking when they leave us but just think of how they must feel. They are loyal and loving their whole life and they deserve their family to be loyal to them until the end.
replydeleteI have been there for 2 of my dogs right until there last breath it is heartbreaking but I needed to be faithful to them as they had been to me. I am preparing for another dog only 8 who has Cushings Disease and again when the time comes she too will be in my arms until she passes. My dogs are my world.
replydeleteI stayed with my darling Max when he crossed the rainbow and of course it was very upsetting as I held him on my knees for the injection and for a time afterwards but I was very thankful that my vet had warned me before what to expect because he still made little sounds and movements after the vet confirmed that he had passed. Now I like to think that those sounds and movements were his way of telling me that he was happy in his new home.
replydeleteMy husband and I stayed with all 3 of our dogs when it was time for them to go to sleep 😢🐶🌈 I wouldn’t have it any other way , we were the last faces for them to see , but so heartbreaking ❤️🩹💔💔
replydeleteI’ve had to do the same with a couple of my babies and I stayed with them to the end. But recently my 17 month old German Shepherd had to be rushed to the animal hospital. They told me almost immediately they could do nothing for her and I told them I wanted to be with her. But unfortunately it was too late and she passed before I could get back to her. They took us to a room to be alone and all I could do was tell her how sorry I was and that I loved her as I cried. It’s been two years and I miss her every day but I know she is waiting for me and I will see her again. She is God’s creature too.
replydeleteI was working in Washington State at a hospital. My Cairn Terrier, Dudley, became gravely ill.. I took him to the vet to be put down. The vet failed to sedate him and he injected him with the med to stop his heart. Dudley screamed and died in my arms. I was angry and devastated. The next week's when I went to work and did rounds with the doctors I would cry. One day a doctor paged me to the on call room He had brought his 2 dogs for me to play with. The vet had been the most horrible doctor I had ever met. However, this doctor was the kindest doctor I had ever met.
replydeleteWe experienced the same thing. Totally devastating experience, the vet was a young locum filling in for the normal vet who was away. Absolutely no empathy from him. We learnt from that, no vet will ever put our pet to sleep without a sedative beforehand. We are still shocked by this experience.
deleteI know how you feel,my baby boy had to be put to sleep the vet I had been with for 13 years did the same my boy screamed I’ll never forgive myself for the pain he went through it was horrible.He’s brother 8 months later had to be put to sleep with a different vet he was just beautiful went to sleep peacefully in my arms also but it doesn’t take away the gilt at least they are both together again.😢
deleteWhen I purchase an animal, it comes home and is usually he/she was in my arms. And when he/she dies that exactly where he/she will be. For everything he/she gave me; its nothing
replydeleteMy beautiful girl was suffering the last stages of heart failure , the thought never crossed my mind to leave her alone . She never took her eyes off me the whole time , although that memory is etched in my mind , and the devastation it caused , I know that I was her last memory for her her before she crossed over . So missed and so loved my beautiful girl Tilly x
replydeleteFor God's Sake, if you have a heart, DON'T let your pet suffer in pain to avoid giving them a final gift out of love and, when that time comes, DON'T abandon your pet to pass without the person / people that they have loved, unconditionally, for years being there with them as they go. It is going to be heart wrenching for you whether you are there or not, don't make their last moments be spent afraid ( in a place that they dont like to be, with strangers ) and, sad that you have left them. NOBODY is going to laugh at you or think you are a "sissy" for crying and, in the end, you can take comfort in knowing that your "baby" was well aware that you loved them as much as they adored you.
replydeleteIf you can't give them the same unconditional love that they give you, from the first minute until the last, PLEASE, don't bring them into your life at all. Life is short. Their's is even shorter. They depend on you for EVERYTHING and only want your love in return. PLEASE don't make them think at the last minutes that they have somehow disappointed you.
RIP "Nina" 2013 - 2023.
RIP "Gypsy" 1997 - 2011.
"If love could have saved you, You would have lived forever." - Author Unknown.
Had to put my 12 yr old girl to sleep 3 weeks ago.
replydeleteThe whole family was with her to the very end.
It broke my heart but in the end she could barely walk because of arthritis. She was on pain meds for yrs before but things got bad really quick.
I always said it wouldn’t put her to sleep until I was carrying her out to use the bathroom and that was what happened in the end.
After we put her to sleep we allowed our other dog in to say good bye to her. I think he knew she was sick in the days leading up to it as he kept his distance a bit. He came into the room had a little sniff and a lick of her face and just lay down on the floor with her. This broke me again.
He’s not been his self since but is getting better as we all are as the days go by.
I have had my boy of 17yrs to be euthanised do to illness.I was present with him. When he took his last breath, he turned and looked at me. I miss him so much
deleteNatrlich habe ich mein geliebtes Tier in seinem letzten Moment im Arm gehalten. Das ist doch ganz klar. Er war ganz entspannt, Frauchen ist ja da. Meine Tränen flossen später. Ich bin soo unendlich traurig.
replydeleteI couldn't imagine leaving my baby alone with just the vet by their side as they were taking their final breath. However, I also understand that some people have a hard time dealing with end of life, even with a furry member of the family. So, I respect that everyone handles things in their own ways and none are wrong.
replydeleteWas by my beautiful girls side for that last breath.
replydeleteAs devastating as it was to have to put her down, I know she got the love and comfort she deserved.
I stayed with my baby girl to the end but I had a terrible experience as the vet gave her a shot he said to put her asleep like she was having surgery and when she fell asleep he would give her the euthanasia shot., but she started vomiting and crying and the vet turned and immediately gave her the euthanasia while she was struggling. What a terrible experience for my precious little girl. I still cry about the whole experience.
replydeleteMy sweet baby,Annie was struggling hard,I couldn't hardly hold her!! The vet looked at my friend & they nodded to go ahead with the shot!! I was trying to calm her,I didn't know they were going to do the shot! I should of been my call for God's sake not there's!! This happened 6 weeks ago & I'm devastated I feel so bad,I cry every day & tell Annie I'm so so sorry 😞 I feel so heart broken,her sister passed 6 months before her! I just hope there together & she forgives me,miss you with all my heart Annie ❤️
deleteMy darling red setter was put to sleep in the late eighties and I wasn’t with her the Veterniary staff never said anything then one day I was talking to a friend and she was saying oh no you stay with them that just made me sad and cry I loved her so much I still cry for her dogs are the Best.
replydeleteMy Dig was in Heart Failure I rushed him to the vet I was with him when the vet said he was to far gone I had to make to difficult decision to end his pain and suffering so the vet came in and said are you ready I said not really so the needle went in his leg within minutes my boy was gone but I held his head in my arms telling him how much he was loved and how much he was going to be missed until today I missed him terribly it’s been 3 years he will never be forgotten RIP Lucky xx❤️
replydeleteMy vet actually put my 13 year old baby under anesthesia & let us sit with her until she went to sleep & we went to the truck while the procedure was completed & the vet wrapped her in my dogs favorite blanket & plastic wrap & carried her to me to the truck. It wasn’t easy but I didn’t have to watch her be euthanized.
replydeleteI have had to endure this heartache several times. Each time I was there until there holding and loving them all. I also stayed with them until they were taken away. They were wrapped I their blankets, had their favorite toys and treats. They are my babies.
replydeleteI recently lost my 12 yr old Morkie to lymphoma. I could never just leave him and walk away as so many coldhearted people have done. For all the years he was there for me it was time to show him I appreciated it. I held him close, told him I loved him and patted his head. It makes me feel he died with love surrounding him. Would you cowards walk out on a dying relative too? I hope not
replydeleteTo all you who are saying euthanizing is one shot, others 2. It depends on the vet. Some vets believe by relaxing your dog and giving him a shot that makes him go under anesthesia first, then the 2nd shot that stops his heart is best. This last time my dog was given only one, but if I had to do it over my choice would now would be 2. What I experienced will forever stay in my mind. After he was given the shot to stop his heart, 20 seconds later he let out this horrible scream, then another 10 seconds later. It made me believe he was in horrible pain during this time and stopping the heart sends pain into my dogs body. He didn't derserve this. The vet said it was just a reaction and assured me he didn 't suffer.
replydeleteBelieve me, it’s the same feeling with a cat. Unfortunately, mine got very sick on a weekend night, and we were unable to get to a vet in time and my cat literally looked at me before his final breath, and died in my arms. I didn’t sleep for two weeks after that. Very heartbreaking.
replydeleteI will never leave my dog(s)
replydeletealone. They are family and have never thought anything other than that. It’s heart breaking but losing anyone in your family is exactly the same no matter who.
I held every one of my four dogs and cat as they passed away. The last death was the most difficult. At the moment she took her last breath she looked up and then passed away. It was the most amazing memorable event I have ever witnessed. I miss her terribly. All of my dogs were 15 or older. Each death has been devastating, but I am glad I spent it with them.
replydeleteIt was a week ago today that we had to put our beloved Gabby to sleep. She was diagnosed with two types of cancer, six months ago. A consult with an oncologist confirmed that while chemo would extend her life possibly additional 6 months, it would not cure her. She had just turned 10 when diagnosed. We chose quality of life over quantity of life. She hated going to the vet and we decided to make the most of her remaining days. She held her own for the first four months but then started panting a lot. It was confirmed that the cancer had spread into her lungs. We spent the last months showing her how much we loved her. Frequent walks, car rides and even a camping trip. A week ago, we knew her time had come and we were not going to prolong her agony, to avoid ours. We found a vet who came to our home. He was compassionate and gave her the first shot as I held her head and stared into her beautiful brown eyes. She slowly fell asleep and then the second shot was administered. I’m crying my eyes out as I write this but I had to do it because I loved her so much. Rest in peace Gabby, until we meet again.
replydeleteIt was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life!! I had to put three chihuahua’s and one cat!! I had the cat 20 years and the chihuahua’s was 17 years old, I stayed with them and cried the whole time, I couldn’t leave them!! I still see their eyes looking at me!! They do want to see you and to be held as they cross over!! I know it was best for them but not me!! 😭😭😭😭
replydeleteToughest thing I've ever done but nothing or no one ever deserves to die alone!
replydeleteI have actually always stayed with my dogs until after their hearts stopped. I am a nurse, so I'm a little different, but to me my dogs are my family and I wouldn't leave my family member by themselves. I have also been a hospice nurse and I never liked a person dying by themselves. Yet in some situations, it's meant to be that way. All situations are different. I will always be there with my fur babies. No judgement here though. Everyone has their limits.
replydeleteWe've had to put 2 down so far. Cocker was 17 and our baby chi was only 2. She had 3 bad discs and didn't get better. Our dog we lost in May had stopped eating. She was deaf and blind. 14 years old. My hubby was on the phone to vet to have her come in for euthanasia because she could no longer stand. I was holding her outside in the chair and she was agitated and wanted down. I brought her inside on the sofa. She took 2 deep breaths and she was gone!!! I had never had a dog die at home before. It was like she knew hubby was making plans for her and beat him to it. So very sad. Worse part of being a dog or any animal owner i s they don't live long enough. I miss all my fur babies. We adopted a silly chi mix boy. He makes me smile everyday
replydeleteWe have been lucky when it came to having our German Shepherds put to rest. Our vet came to our home and put them to sleep on their own beds, in their own home with us both holding them. 3 times and it gets harder not easier each time.
replydeleteI was with my babies when they crossed the rainbow bridge. and our vet said the same thing. it was so hard but i would never leave my babies in time like this. and i have there boxes with me with there colar and pic so when i miss them i can say HI.
replydeleteI was there with my Onyx Boy, when we had no choice to put him down. His kidney had failed. It was 8 days before Christmas in 1998,cold and rainy. I held him on the floor of the vet. My husband had to leave the room. Sad time still miss him.
replydeleteWould YOU WANT TO BE ALONE..why LEAVE your furry baby alone, after they stayed with you all the time? Suck it up, YOU AT LEAST OWE THEM THAT👊
replydeleteI held my and sung Jesus Loves Me. The vet started singing it with me. I know that I will see them again. God made them before man and they were perfect.
replydeleteMy baby Bandit passed on his own with me by his side. He was 17 and I miss him everyday. I begged and pleaded for him to stay. He was my life!
replydeleteI could Never leave a truly loved furbaby to die with someone they don't know 😭, I know it's hard enough to say goodbye to them but put my feelings aside for them to know that they are forever loved and will always be missed 💔 😭
replydeleteI miss my furbabies so much 😭🐾🐾💔 they will always be in my thoughts and ❤️
replydeleteI recently had to take my cat to vets to be put down as he was suffering in pain with cancer of his intestines I was absolutely heart broken . As he was my soul mate and best friend . And we were so close so I stayed with him in room but the vet would not let me hold him while they put the fatal needle in him as he was fighting against them as he was scared knowing this was his last moment to live . And the vet didn,t want any accidents by putting it in me by mistake if he let me hold him .my cat looked around for me but nurse made me stand behind her. I broke down and sobbed uncontrollable shouting to my cat to let him know I was still there with him .then next minute he was gone to sleep. Then the vet said do you want him cremated if so you need to book it today . I couldn,t even think I was numb with shock never mind answer his bloody question with no feeling coming from him .x
replydeleteWhen it was time for our 66 lb Rottweiler/Chow to go to the Rainbow Bridge, he came up the steps on our back porch, came in and took a few steps then went over and laid down by my husband’s feet -we knew it was his time. Off to the vet we went, crying all the way. Once they placed him on that cold metal table, they gave him his first shot, and left the room. As my husband and I were bawling, and telling Toby how much we loved him, my husband grabbed a tissue from the box, and walked over and wiped a huge tear off Toby’s eye — he was actually crying. This made us cry even harder. I hugged his neck to the very end, and then some. I wouldn’t have left him alone for any amount of money. He was my forever companion and I loved him with all my heart- and still miss him so much.
replydeleteIf you choice to have pets they are family and should die feeling scared and abandoned. It’s easy to say it to hard to be there but in there finally moments all they want is your love. Going in peace. Everyone deserves that. If you can’t be there maybe you shouldn’t have pets no matter how well you may take care of them. Because their hardest time for them and you abandon them it’s okay. I will break when my babies go but I will love them physically until they need to take them in the back.
replydeleteThat's a real cop out when you say those excuses not to be there .that dog or cat gave you every once of love and devotion while being with you..I held everyone e of my dogs to the end talking to him or her and letting g them k own how very much I love them..be there for them in the end .I don't think there asking to much of you.
replydeleteOur canine friend has shared their whole life with you , it is our honour and duty to them when their end come to share their love back to them when the time comes…it’s not the vet they look for , it’s you , love them enough back , always…
replydeleteI lost my Luna, she was the best dog , I have never cried so much when she pasted , when they had to put her to sleep we all stayed in the room and kissed and cuddled her until she was gone x rest in peace Bonnie girl, see you on the other side.
replydelete.e and husband stayed with our 16 yr old Lab. He was the best Dog. It was Sept 5th when he had to go to the rainbow 🌈 bridge. I never cried so hard and still am. He was my best friend and I wasn't leaving him. He was mine till he end
replydeleteI just had to say goodbye to my dog 2 days ago. It is so heartbreaking to be there and have to make this decision. But I would never consider not being there for them in their greatest time of need.
replydeleteTell off my babies have crossed🌈 bridge. And I've held both in my arms and looked into their eyes. Assuring them that it was okay to leave us. And letting them know they are loved beyond. I wouldn't leave them in their darkest moments. They brought us so much love and joy. And I'm sure they'll be waiting on me until my last day. 🕊️🌈🐶🐾Missy and Gary. Mommy loves and misses you greatly.
replydelete*Two of
deleteWhere is the video? I only see photos.
replydeleteNot only do I stay with them, my next one will be in our home, snuggled to my chest so my babies don't have to deal with the horrible situation when the vet does it. It will be very hard to do, but when is it ever easy? I see the look on the faces of my babies when the vet takes them to the back to get labs, etc. It's sheer terror so why would I let any of my babies do it alone.
replydeleteI've always stayed with my pets during this time. Tears flow heavily and you leave feeling empty with great sadness. And then you get home and realize they're never going to come when you call them and the dog bed and toys will sit idle. I have 2 dogs getting up there in their years and dread the day they will leave me forever. The only solace is knowing you gave them the best life possible.
replydeleteI fetched my boy Home on the day he was 8 weeks old and I saw him go to sleep, wouldn't have dreamt of leaving him to go to sleep on his own. He was peaceful in his knowledge that we were there with him till the very end. I had him taken to a nice old farmhouse pet crematorium were he was put in a Chapel of rest the day after in his basket with his favourite blanket and toy. We took it in turns to have a little private chat with him. I thanked him for being our "wonderful gift of joy" and that is a very special memory that will stay with me for ever
replydeleteI have only had to put one pet down and I went to the back with her for the injection- she cried and yelled and I held her bowling begging them to please don’t let her leave like this! It felt like a very long time and the vet just kept listening to her heartbeat and the other two staff tried to keep me from going hysterical. They did say that this only happens occasionally to some dogs but was so terribly traumatic
replydeleteI had to put down my 15 year old collie a few years back. He was a great dog & friend. It was heartbreaking to see him slowly pass to the rainbow bridge but I was with him from beginning to end comforting him and kept my face within his vision so he could see me and know I was there for him. Probably one of the hardest things I've done but have a clear consciousness today that I didn't leave him in his most desperate moment ❤️
replydeleteYour pet is on the other side waiting for you to arrive. Turn to Christ and he promises everlasting life and you’ll also be reunited with your babies.
replydeleteIt was so hard to let my 13 year old baby go and the only thing I wish could have been done different was for it to happen in our home. I thought we had a fighting chance and therefore took her to vet but within hours we all knew it was goodbye time and seemed like too much to move her back home once decision was made. Literally felt my heart breaking but holding and kissing her as she crossed the rainbow bridge was nonnegotiable.
replydeleteWe have 4yr old fur baby now and when her time comes I will do everything to not bring her to a vet office if avoidable during final moments. I want her home and loved in our bed
I want the last thing they see to be me!
replydeleteOur pets deserve our love in their last moments since they give us THEIR love their entire lives.
replydeleteWe have put 2 yorkies to sleep. Toby was 18 . I couldn't go in with him but my husband did and held him till he crossed over. We just put our 13 year old down. He was having seizures one after another. Vet said he probably had a Braun tumor because for days he was going in circles. This time my husband and I both went with Remy. My wonderful vet took him in the back to sedate him and brought him back to us where I held him till he went to sleep. Then they put on the table with a soft cushion under him and gave him the injection. We stood and petted him as he passed. We wrapped him ip in his blankie. Brought him home and buried him in our pet cementary. I painted a rock to put on his grave. Miss him every day.
replydeleteI had my German Shepherd put to sleep. He was 12. Had tumor on his skull, inoperable. I held him when he was put to sleep. So he wasn't looking for his best friend
replydeleteMy breath nose to nose with my dog of 15 yrs. Is my DUTY to show Love. How can you not be there? Unfathomable.
replydeleteIn 2021 I held my precious Beka, kissing her head and telling her how much that I Love her as she took her last breath. 2 weeks ago I held my oldest girl, Kallie and also caressed her head, kissing and Loving her as she took her last breath. Was this easy in either death, NO, I am still devastated.
replydeleteI have had to put a few of my pets to sleep and I have always stayed with, held them and told them how much I loved them and thanked them for loving me. Those times have been some of the hardest times in my life.
replydeleteI have been there with my pets to the end and loved everyone. The last one I had put down was Gabe a Chi/mix we were especially close. It almost killed me. I loved that little boy so much. He was my special baby.
replydeleteI could never leave one of my pets alone if they have to be put to sleep , its hard to watch and heart breaking but i could never let them go thinking at the end i had abandoned them as i loved them all to much
replydeleteI had to put my amazing fur baby down last week. I had to take him to the local Humane Society because I could not afford what the vets charged. But they WOULD NOT let me hold him. I argued with them for weeks before and they said it was their policy and if I needed to hold him I could take him to a vet. It ripped my heart out to turn him over to strangers. This is horrible, I cry all the time. Barclay was 17 years old and sick. He was a Rat Terrier mix
replydeleteBoth my family's dogs have always had one family member with them xx there for them until the end <3
replydeleteOur beautiful Storm boy developed liver cancer at 13 years old. We did everything we could to keep him comfortable but when the pain became too much we had to make a decision. I sometimes think we waited one day too long. His last day he couldn’t walk, eat or drink. We had a vet come to our home. We played his favorite games, sang his favorite songs and offered his favorite foods. As painful as it was for us, we wanted his last memories to be happy ones. In his final moments I held his paw, patted and kissed his head and told him he was the best boy. That was 4 months ago and I miss him everyday.
replydeleteThey are apart of your family from the time you got them till the time they die ,for me it has been heart breaking each time. just this year i had to put my fur baby to sleep and it was devastating because it would be the last time i hear the meow from her, i stayed with her the whole time, so whether it is a dog or cat even reptiles they are FAMILY.
replydeleteI have had 5 fur babies put down because they were suffering and dying from cancer. We did chemotherapy on the boxers which only prolonged their lives a short time. I stayed with every one of them and held them while they were dying. There was no way I could leave them alone. My husband said he just could not stay but I felt it was my last act of love for them and I wanted them to feel it. I know they will always be waiting for us at the Rainbow Bridge. Please remember their loyalty and love for you. 🙏
replydeleteI just lost my baby boy dog whom I weaned along with two of his sisters. I had to give two of them up but got him back after he was I think seven years old. I held him all night until he took his last breath all night in my bed. It was scary at times but I was grateful he died in my arms at age !7 years.
replydeleteYour pets are family. Would you leave a loved one to die alone? I think not. Please stay with them till the end. They have always been there for you now be there for them
replydeleteI will not let my best friend and all my life die by him or herself I won't do that no matter how bad it hurts me it's hurting her or him as much as you can even imagine how bad it hurts them. They love you and all they want is to be with you and keep you happy. That's up to you to be with them at their last moments.
replydeleteAs hard as it was to make the decision the end her suffering I could have never left my sweet girl she gave me 8 good funny and loving years . It’s been a year I miss her every day.
replydeleteFor me, I would never let one of mine go alone. They have brought me so much pleasure. I cannot desert them at the end.
replydeleteMy vet came to my home, we made him a comfortable bed on the floor, I layed with him and cuddled him until I felt ready to take the next step, my vet explained what each step of the procedure did, hr said take all the time you need and tell me when you are ready to say goodbye.I held him while he injected him, he immediately fell asleep, all was very peaceful, after he passed, my vet asked me did I want to place him in his tiny body bag, I said yes, although very sad I'm so glad when he went he knew he was with me still being loved till his final breath
replydeleteI had to have my boots put down it was the hardest thing I have ever had to do my brother passed a few months before I had this done his hips were so bad he could barely walk I keep putting it off because I didn't want to let him go but I didn't want him to suffer I miss him so much
replydeleteMy Rottie cross Shepherd had a stroke at the age of 21. I took him to a vet to be put down but the vet gave us another 6 months with him. During this time he was able to fetch and enjoy human companionship. He had another stroke from which there was no return and as the vet gave him his injection I stood and balled my eyes out for my mate of many years. He died with me holding his head and thanking God for his being part of my life. I had his remains cremated and paid for an urn so that my mate would be with me forever, guess what my ex took his ashes in the divorce settlement. I will still love Perseus till the day I die he was brilliant. I have numerous stories about him and my children but I can never replace him and don't want to try
replydeleteIn fairness they don't just drop dead from full consciousness- they are sedated so that they feel a sense of calm in which their concerns just melt away.
replydeleteReally sunshine how about we put you down with no loved ones around you
deleteEvery time our elderly dogs had to euthanised, an injection is given first to make them go to sleep,then the final lethal injection follows.Such a more kinder\ gentler way to do things I think! Of course there still was lots of crying on our part,always terribly,terribly sad having to put one’s fur babies to sleep
replydeleteI had to put my Chloe - Golden retriever when she was 14 as she had some sort of heart episode . I was with her all the time. However her mate is still with me and is now 18, (labradoodle) and soon the same will be needed for her. She cannot see, cannot hear and riddled with painful arthritis but her heart is strong and her brain and thoughts doing well, her sense of smell is all she has. We have another dog aged 3 who is her, i guess seeing eye dog and she looks to me all the time and follows me around. She is on pain management for now but once that does not work I will have to put her down and i will be with her all the time. She is not disposable!
replydeleteStaying with my beloved dog was the hardest thing ever but there was never any question of me not doing so as he'd been the most amazing pet and to leave him at the end just wasn't an option. My last few minutes with him were precious and what he did was priceless and it's been 3.5 years and I still can't speak of it without crying my eyes out.
replydeleteAll lifeforms should be treated efficiently
replydeleteWe had our 18 year old Maltese x Silkie put down last year, our choice even though it was hard. We didn't want to see her suffer anymore. My kids stayed with her as I sat outside as the rooms aren't very big and we didn't have enough masks to go around. I gave her a big hug before they took her in and just sat there and cried. I still miss her at times.
replydeleteWe had the complete opposite where our beautiful family dog of 9Years went in for surgery and we couldn’t be there and he sadley didn’t make it through. We would have be there in a heartbeat if we had inkling he wasn’t going to make it after they told us the surgery went well. It’s not fair. It cowardly when people make these choices. If it was the other way around your pet would be there from the moment you were dying.
replydeletethey are always by your side day and night watching over us, you are their carer till the end, its comforting for them to see you and to know you were with them one last time.
replydeleteStayed with my boy, thought it was the least I could do for him. Very uplifting experience, sad of course but uplifting nonetheless.
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