Tough Decision . . .

[Rott'nKids]

Just sobbing here . . .my brother's male, Ares (litter-mate to my Iria) is as beloved fur-baby to me as are my own two. He has been going downhill since early December. Both he and Iria had chronic diarrhea, which Iria managed to beat by March, but Ares finally beat about a month ago. In the meantime over the course of the last few weeks, he developed (found out today for sure) a degenerative nerve disease. With acupuncture, he was able to sit up again, then walk a few steps, but now his nervous system is going down and he is basically attacking the one back leg he can stand on and now has several open sores, which were hard to see until the leg was shaved today. He is also becoming incontinent. Finally, now they know there is nothing more they can do for him and he will only get worse. They have made the decision to have him PTS this week. My brother is going to make him a casket (can you imagine a worse job?) and they have picked a burial spot. We are all crying, and I am not sure if I should go to see him or not. Do I want to see him in this state, or just remember him the way he was the last time I was there, where his first steps were over to me (I was nearer), then over to my brother and his wife. I can't see to drive at night very well, and sure won't be able to sobbing. I told them to give him a big hug from me and left it at that. This is bad enough, but I can't imagine (and don't want to) having to make this decision with either of our two, but since they Iria and Ares are littermates (and quite possibly sac-mates) and are so identical in so many ways, except size, and have had many of the same medical issues, especially the chronic diarrhea (even started at the same time) I am worried about her, even though she has always been in great health, with the exception of this winter's chronic diarrhea. My MIL (our breeder) had the nerve to tell us to put Iria to sleep ANYWAY since "she will just cost you kids too much money in the future" even though she is back to healthy now and showing no signs of any sickness. This thing with Ares just sucks!!! I wish i could wave a magic wand and he would be better . . .
Sorry this is so long, and I know I will see him in my dreams.

[Squeaky2004]

I am so sorry to hear that. You and your family will be in my thoughts.

About going to see the dog. I don't know what I would do so can't help you there, my initial reaction would probably be wanting to see the dog, but then again I am not sure I would. Up to you hon, good luck with coming to a final decision on whether or not you should.

[mmgy]

Wish I could wave a magic wand for you.......

Next week, when this has passed, resolve to do everything in your power to keep your baby healthy. Enjoy every moment, because we never know.

This week, be guided by your brother's feelings. If he wants you to come over, try to do so.

We'll be thinking about you, your family, and your dogs this week.

[Rott'nKids]

I am going to see Ares this afternoon, I still can't stop the tears.
To Vista, sorry I posted a dumb post in another section; thru the grief it just never crossed my mind.

[Brooke&Ryan]

I'm so very sorry. My thoughts are with you & your family.......

[Luvs]

I am very sorry about your brothers boy. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.

[Rott'nKids]

This might be a little weird for some, but today was the day Ares moved on to a better place, so we had a funeral for Ares this evening. My brother built a beautiful wooden box with his name and some poetry on it to place him in. The ceremony was very nice, all about loving and caring for pets, and a copy of "the Rainbow Bridge" was handed out at the end. Then I took my brother and his wife down to the lake to the trails while her parents buried him. Such a sad day, but it was a beautiful one, the sun was out, all the flowers were in full bloom and the birds were singing away. Thank you to everybody for your thoughts and prayers, they are very much appreciated.

[babybluetx23]

Sounds like you guys paid Ares all the respect he deserved and you had a Beautiful service. I am So sorry to hear that he has gone to the bridge. Please let your brother and his family know that we are praying for him! God speed sweet ares