Well we have two dogs.
The first is a medium sized heinze 57 (unknown breed) that we rescued when she was 14 to 20 months old.
The second is a German Shepard that we've had since he was 6 weeks old.
The terrier cross is over 17 years old and the German Shepard is 15.
The gsd has not been feeling well the last few days and today he lost the use of his rear end.
He isn't in pain, but he can't walk.
Tomorrow at 9:30 he is going for his last trip to the vet.
I won't see him suffer or be in any type of pain.
The worst thing is that I won't be there, at 9:30 I will be 40 miles away making a presentation to 75 people at a conference.
My wife and oldest daughter will have to do it.

Here is Sargent a few years ago




Here is bear the same day

I don't know how long she will last without her best friend

[censored] Bill,I'm sorry man.It sure hurts letting go of our furry family members.Putting him down now is the best for him though.
At least he had a long happy life with a loving family.
You definately need to adopt another,it will/does help ease the pain.
Thanks for not letting him suffer.
Smokes up for Sarge & his family.

Bill, I'm sorry to hear the news. Nothing I can say will take away the hurt, but Myke is right. They give us their love, and in the end we love them and don't let them suffer. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers.

My condolences. Its so hard to have too watch them struggle as they near the end. It is the best thing for them though unfortunately. I'm Sorry man! its tough losing family!

I'm sad for Sargent and you guys :-(

that stinks man, At least he had a long and happy life and won't be in pain.

Sorry to hear this news Bill.
It's terrible to have to say goodbye to such a long time friend.
Rest well Sargent.
Smoke and prayers to you and yours.

My thoughts go to you and your family. I hate this time in a special friendship as it is so hard to handle, but just remember all the good memories and times.

Smoke sent my friend, I wish there was something I could say, but there really isn't. I know how you feel

Oh Man Bill, I am SO sorry to hear this news. And yeah like the others said, it IS like loosing a Human family member. Been a part of your life for 17 years and letting go is ALWAYS hard.

Our prayers go out to you and your family for strength, courage and fond memories.

Randy

Yes, prayers going out.

We were not designed for death, but we have to deal with it.

Sorry for the loss.

The truth!

We are made for love and loving!


THE RAINBOW BRIDGE POEM


When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.




All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.




They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.




You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.



Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

I firmly believe in this ability when we are on our way.

And I will have plenty of my dear animal friends waiting on me!
And I like knowing that too!