[Marley55]

Laurie, How wonderful that you are able to have more time with Lucas. I thought of you often throughout the day and as I looked at Jaxx could not help crying because I know we are soon facing the same painful day. I am so glad you have a bit more time to spend with him and have a couple more cheeseburgers and sundaes !

BeauandShan, I totally agree and know in my heart they tell us they are ready. We just have to be attentive to their needs and listen closely to them and we will know as well.

When my female Shadow was diagnosed with lymphoma I was horrified at how fast moving it was, less then 3 weeks from the DX until she passed. She was a given to me after someone got her as a gift from a pet shop and did not want her. Horrible breeding, a host of medical problems, but I made the best life for her that I could. I watched her closely and called the vet to make the appointment to have her PTS. The day before her appt, I was leaving for work and told her, like I did every day " be a good girl, I'll be back soon". I swear the look in her eyes told me she just could not wait for me to come home anymore. I remember being crushed all day long at work, thinking of her sad look. She was right, that night she passed in her sleep. I was grateful that she passed right there with me, and that I didn't have to take her to that appt but wondered had I waited to long. The vet assured me that her heart just stopped and that her death was quick and painless but still I wonder about that extra day.

I strive to keep my grandmothers wise words in front of me ....your body is the house that carries your soul. When the house is eaten by termites, it is time to let it go. Such a delicate balance, our needs, our beloved animals needs, and the termites.