Talk about a hard day......

2014-08-24T21:44:50-04:00

Today I had to make the conscious decision to put down my best friend for the past 12 years. My yellow lab, Daisy, was rapidly declining and had lost mobility in her back legs. She spent the entire night last night unable to control her bowels and had stopped eating. I took her to the vet and the prognosis was not good, so rather than see her suffer any longer, I let them put her to sleep. I know it was the best thing for her, but I still feel horrible about it. I know this isn't exactly a military discussion, but I felt the need to put it out there. It's funny, I have lost a lot of people in my life, from family to friends to brothers in arms. This has been one of the hardest for me. Maybe it was because she trusted me completely and it was my decision that ended her life. Has anyone else been through this?

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2014 6:41 PM

2014-09-03T18:41:15-04:00

SFC Stephen Carden So sorry for your loss. I have unfortunately been there too. They are truly a member of the family.

Response by MSG Wade Huffman made Sep 3 at 2014 7:02 PM

2014-09-03T19:02:25-04:00

So sorry to hear of the loss of your dear friend and beloved companion. It must have been one of the toughest decisions of your life, but I believe you made the right decision for her. Please accept my condolences.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 3 at 2014 7:30 PM

2014-09-03T19:30:58-04:00

I know exactly how you feel. I had an English Cocker Spaniel Outwest Ruger MacGruger. We had him 11 years, and he was the best dog I have ever known. Acted like a puppy every day of his life. Never bit, snapped, growled or scratched anyone ever. He endured 3 of my sons in his time and took it all happily. He would run circles through the house the moment someone came through the door, stopping long enough to get a pat and back to it. One of my sons would hold on to his tail while he was pulled around the living room, Ruger loved it all. One day I went home for lunch and found him laying on his bed, not moving, he did not get up to greet me or move in any way. I called him and he was feebly able to get up and come to me. We took him to the vet and found that he had a large tumor on his liver which had burst and he was slowly bleeding to death internally. There was no fix for him, there was nothing that could be done. We had enough time to get the boys there to say goodbye before we asked to have him humanely put down. My boys were distraught, I was a wreck, everyone who knew us and him were devastated. I was affected more by that dog than the passing of my parents. As awful as that sounds it is true. Not a day goes by that I do not have a fond memory of him and become momentarily sad at his passing. That was 6 years ago. I still feel the pain of his loss when I think of him and I hope that never goes away. I do not want to forget him as he was the best dog I have ever known. I feel your pain SFC Stephen Carden .

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2014 12:13 AM

2014-09-04T00:13:38-04:00

It's never easy. I rescue animals now and have had to let a few go. I cry everytime no matter how long they were with me. Compassion is a good and honorable trait. My condolences on your loss but it is great to know you have heart.