Bacchus has had a good week. Even though he is eating well once again, we see that he is slowing down. What is to be attributed to heart disease versus old age is hard to differentiate. The combination is the difficult part with which we have to deal.
I've friends with dogs who are dealing with similar circumstances and we swap information constantly. The one thing we have in common is that we all realize that we're grasping at straws. I don't know how it will be with my friends, but I do know that at our age, Bacchus will be our last dog. That is why I cling to him so desperately for I will so miss him, his presence, my connection with him. We've had five before him. The loss of each has been excruciating. I don't think I have it within me to do it again.
10 comments:
I do so understand! Sam will be my last dog, too. Make the most of the time you have with him.
As you already know.....
One day at a time, one day at a time...
enjoy the day
You'll have some wonderful videos to remind you of him.
I was feeling a bit down when I wrote this post though I'm not sure why. Bacchus wasn't down at all; he was just enjoying a pleasant spring day!
It makes me sad to think you won't have another dog. Surely you have 15 more years to have another one.
If not, is it possible you could find an older dog to love? I gave serious thought to this issue before getting my little dog and finally decided to take an older dog that needed a home. I'm very glad I did that because the hard work of potty training and training a puppy in general was all done. I could see what I was getting. I'm also glad I did that because if I'm the one to survive and live alone I really don't want to have a dog. A cat I can have someone come by and feed and clean the litter if I'm on a trip. With a dog I can't do that.
You have so much to give a dog I'd hate for you not to have one. Could you do foster care for his breed?
Bacchus doesn't seem the least bit bothered by anything. I was surprised to see him walking on green grass rather than snow. Gosh, he is such a wonderful dog.
Keep printing updates about him. I'll still be reading your blog and looking for them.
I have lost several much beloved cats over the years. Each time, I weep and grieve for the loss. Yet I would not be without. The love and companionship they give is well worth the pain of the loss. Every thing in life, good or bad, has a price. It is one I knowingly and willingly pay. I hope you will give it some thought after the healing has begun.
As we all have learned, it's wise not to say "never"! However, as of right now there are two of us in the decision making process. I think when we both say this is our last it's because this has been so emotionally draining. Just not knowing.
I wouldn't be at all surprised if at some point in time we reconsider. For now, though, we still have our old boy and he appears to be doing pretty well. For now it's enough. He has our undivided love and devotion and we have his. Not a bad deal for any of us! ; )
Don't say never. Adopt an older dog, go for a smaller breed, or (as suggested above) foster a needy dog - maybe even another St. Bernard.
It can be difficult for rescue groups for larger dogs to find willing foster homes.
When I lost my previous dog, I said no more, I can't take this again. But suddenly I found myslef wanting another dog, perhaps in his memory, I don't know. But the feeling was just so strong. And so, I bought another Chinese Crested puppy (the kind with hair folks) and in spite of him eating my house, I've never been sorry. I will insert here that I am older than DWM. Yes, it does present problems with vacations, but nothing insurmountable (I don't board). As for house breaking, this breed is amazing. Very easy and for little dogs, apparently they have a bladder the size of Texas. I also have two cats...it's a zoo and I love it. CU
Our dog is 14 this year. Her hearing is gone and she can't howl any longer. She is still our 'puppy' though. We watched Marley and Me this weekend - ughhh... it just reminded us what is coming. We love her so and say we won't get another dog either, but you never know.
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