Almost 11 years ago, I came out of the bathroom at a local dog show in which I was competing in obedience with my sheltie, Miles, and there was the most beautiful dog I'd ever seen. His name was Paris. I told the woman on the other end of the leash I wanted a dog that looked just like him. She told me she had a litter of puppies and gave me her card. I tried not to call her. According to Keith we didn't need another dog...especially another hairy barky Sheltie. I didn't listen to him and before he knew it I was going to look at that litter of puppies. I had my choice between two females. I chose the smaller girl with the two black ears. The other puppy went on to be a champion and was sold to someone in Korea for $50,000. The story of my life.
That is how Wynstone's Say Grace came to live with us. She was adorable and wormed her way into Keith's heart in spite of all that hair. Everyone loved Grace and Grace loved everyone. People would say something like "Oh she really likes me" as she was up on them licking their neck. I wouldn't have the heart to tell them she did that to everyone. Grace had a whole list of people that suggested she come live with them "if anything happens to you".
Right in the middle of Keith's big accident, Grace started to cough. When I had a chance I took her to see the vet. I was worried because our vet of 28 years had retired and sold his practice to a couple of new vets but I was very pleased to meet Dr. Josh. He was compassionate and practical. He had to deliver the bad news that Grace had cancer and her body as filling with fluid. She had very compromised lung function. He talked about some options but we both agreed no good would come of it. I brought her home and she lasted 9 days. She was spoiled those 9 days and got one more walk to the farm.
I was having a hard time with the big decision.
Grace was still eating, drinking, running, and barking, she just couldn't breath. I took her back and saw the other very compassionate, practical partner, Dr.
Dean. He helped me make the big decision. Grace was suffering. I had to let her go but I tell you this, Grace knew what was happening. I told the vet that she knew what was going on and he said
"I know she knows"
Grace never gave anyone a moment of grief. She was, and I know it is said a lot but this time it is true, the best dog.
17 comments:
Oh my, in tears. What a very nice post to honor your friend, Grace. Take care, Wendy.
What a wonderful, beautiful girl! I know you will truly miss her, but you did the right thing out of LOVE... remember that. She was truly a beauty!
I was going to say "I'm sorry for your loss", but I changed my mind and decided to congratulate you for the excellent puppy selection those many long, loyal, happy, and loving years ago!
Oh no. Goodbye little perfect Grace.
So sorry you had to make that decision ... Cherish all the beautiful memories you had with a beautiful loving dog.
Oh, Wendy. There are no words at a time like this. But I really love what Chai Chai said. You both got the best of deals. You the best dog and she the best owner. Hugs...
Hugs to you over the Narrow's Bridge, my dear. Awful news and sad.
I'm with you. I've put down a beloved cat and MUCH beloved (my special little man beloved) pug in the last 2 years.
I miss my Gus almost every day. But he was an excellent little man, as your Grace was a fine little lady.
It'll get easier. Crying helps. Also ice cream.
I hate making those decisions. They are made though, with the knowledge of what is best for our animals. It still doesn't make it any easier. She was a beautiful dog.
I am so very sorry. It sounds quite similar to what I just went through with my wonderful dog. I know how hard it is to make that decision, and they are amazing with their ability to make us feel better about it.
Swift journey Grace! &,if you can, chase away the clouds over your household & farm; bark in the sun to shine once again.
So sorry to hear about your beloved friend. We lost one in August, and it is only getting easier because I stay busy. But there are too many things in my day that she should be doing, so many places we should be going. I also hate making that decision, and I hate the grieving process, but I wouldn't have traded the relationship with my beautiful girl for anything. We are certainly better human beings for having known them. So terribly sorry for your loss.
She sounds like the best dog. I am so very very sorry for your loss of Grace.
Hi Wendy,
Grace is beautiful. I know how difficult it is to come to the "big decision". Animals are so stalwort and strong. We humans are so whiney and weak. I was faced with a sudden decision a couple of years ago with my easy-going Harley. You did the right thing by Grace.
I am so sorry to hear about Grace. That decision is always the hardest one to make. It all seems to pile up at once doesn't it?
She was the best dog.
In tears, also. It is the most difficult thing. Beautiful Grace. Sweet and lovely.
So sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful Grace. It's the hardest thing I've ever had to do too. I'm sure you're remembering all the happy memories and really missing her by your side.
God bless you. It is so hard to make that decision, I had the same decision to make last year on my Border Collie, Buddy. I am still not over it and can't hardly type this because of the tears. I am praying for you. Todd
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