Friday, June 25, 2010

I love you Luke.


The most compassionate Dr. of Veterinary Medicine I know did Luke and me the honor of coming to our home this afternoon.   He's retired, but he didn't hesitate a moment when I called to asked him if he would help me.

Luke was put to sleep today at my home, and in my arms.  He fell asleep quietly, and passed away peacefully.  The last thing I told him as he drifted off was that I loved him more than anything, and to wait for me in Heaven, because he would be the first person I would come looking for when I got there.

I prepared a spot in our yard for Luke.  After many tears, I finished laying him to rest earlier this afternoon.  I've asked Luke many times to please just live one day longer than me, - but I guess it wasn't supposed to work out that way.

A little while ago, a delivery person arrived with a beautiful arrangement of flowers.  The card was unsigned.  As he handed me the arrangement he pointed out that it had a brand new tennis ball in the center.  He looked confused and asked me if it was supposed to be that way.  I smiled and told him it was, and I knew immediately the arrangement was from Luke's previous owner.

Luke, - Rest In Peace, my loyal friend and wonderful companion.  I love you and I'll see you again one day.

"LUKE"
March 8, 1997 - June 25, 2010

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Monday, June 7, 2010

The Most Difficult Decision

The most difficult decision an animal lover has to make is to terminate the life of their pet.  You can say that ending your pets suffering is the "ultimate act of love", but I can tell you, - it sure doesn't feel that way.

I've had to do it before, and I hate the thought of doing it again.  I've loved all my dogs, but I really love this one. 

My Luke is now unable to walk at all.  He can only stand for a few seconds before collapsing, and must be carried.  We give him medicine daily to control any pain.  It makes him groggy, and I know he doesn't feel well.  He hasn't wagged his tail in a long, long time. 

I've learned one thing about Luke recently that I wished I'd known sooner.  He enjoys vanilla ice cream.  I think he likes the sweet flavor, and the cold probably feels good in his mouth.   It makes me feel good to know I can do something that gives him pleasure.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

My Angel.

This is my Lukey Boy dressed in angel wings and a halo.  My girls dressed him up as an angel for Halloween several years ago.  This would normally be a funny photo to me.

Last night, Luke and I laid down on the floor together.  He'd been given his medicine, which makes him sleepy.  As he falls asleep, I like to pet him and softly rub his back and hips, and tell him what a good dog he is.  I want him to fall asleep feeling loved.   

It's hard for me to think about giving Luke back to God. 

I'm selfish.  I want him here with me.

Saturday, April 3, 2010

This says it all.

Isn't this a great photo?  What a wonderful picture.  To the owner of a Golden Retriever it will have special meaning. 

There is a special quality about a Golden Retriever that I've never seen in another dog.  There is a willingness to please their master that is above and beyond.  They desperately want to make you happy.  And if you are smart enough to communicate to them what it is you want, they will try very hard to do it. 

You see the look in this dog's eyes?  That's the look you get from a Golden when you have their full attention.  They are watching, listening and trying to understand.  They want to please.

I imagine that this Golden would sit in this little bucket of cold water all day, waiting for a bath, if he thought he was supposed to. 

I know Luke would.

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Bad week for a Good Boy.

My friend has had a bad week.  The stiffness and discomfort in his hips and front right leg have made any movement difficult.  The Novox seemed to help at first, but now it's giving him little relief.  I got another prescription yesterday which helps to inhibit his pain.  It makes him sleepy, but under the circumstances, this is a blessing. 

Luke's favorite activity was to catch and retrieve a tossed tennis ball, and he could do it for hours.  Seeing him barely able to stand now is heartbreaking.

It's a helpless feeling to realize you'll soon be faced with a very difficult decision.  You can tell yourself that not allowing your animal to suffer is the greatest act of compassion, but it sure doesn't feel that way. 

As long as his tail keeps wagging, I'll keep doing all I can to make him comfortable.   I love this dog. 

 

Sunday, March 7, 2010

Happy Birthday Champ!

Tomorrow is Luke's 13th birthday.   He's laying here beside me napping soundly (I can tell from the snoring).  We're having a quiet Sunday morning.   I've already given him some of his birthday present (his favorite chicken treats).

Luke's arthiritis had worsened over the last year.  He's now on daily medication to ease the pain, and to make him more comfortable.  He has trouble getting up, and has to be carried upstairs each night.  It don't think it will be much longer before he needs help going downstairs also. 

He's also gotten almost completely deaf.  I'm careful not to startle him when I approach him from behind.  Since it's hard for him to get up, sometimes he makes a short bark when he's wakes up alone as if to ask "is anyone here"?

Doesn't bother me.  I'll come whenever he needs me, and I will gladly carry him anywhere. 

Happy Birthday old boy!