Rascal may not make it through the night

:( I am so terribly heart broken at the moment and cannot stop crying like a baby. My little white schnauzer Rascal doesn't look like he will make it through the night. He has been to the vet (3 different vets) and there is nothing that they can do. He does not seem to be in pain so they will not put him down. He is almost 13 years old and I guess his time is fast approaching. He has not eaten in the past few days or drank any water from what I can tell. I have been dripping water into his mouth for him to lick up. He won't move or can't I don't know which. I have to carry him outside to go potty, but he just collapses on the ground. This is gut-wrenching to see him like this. My stomach is knots. I've had Rascal ever since he was a tiny little puppy. I feel like a part of me is dying...:tears:

Here is my Rascal boy...

http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/l...s/IM000345.jpg

http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/l...amanrascal.jpg

Sorry for rambling, guess I just had to get it off my chest :tears:

I had a fox terrier named rascal who passed. His face reminds me of your dogs and it's weird I was just reflecting on him last night. However we have to accept all living things eventually cease I know had sad times like these are.

Aww Lena.. I'm so sorry.

:hug:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by envy_ld50

I had a fox terrier named rascal who passed. His face reminds me of your dogs and it's weird I was just reflecting on him last night. However we have to accept all living things eventually cease I know had sad times like these are.

---

I guess I'm just not ready to let him go yet. I've lost pets before, but Rascal is like no dog I ever had before... he will be missed sooo much I can't even put it into words :tears:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by LadyOhh

Aww Lena.. I'm so sorry.

:hug:

---

Thanks Heather ;)

So sorry to hear this. :(
I know he's comforted knowing how much you love him. Keeping you in my prayers.

Oh Lena how truly sad for you to have to go through this with your beloved little dog. It's the worst part of pet ownership that they only have such a relatively short time with us. Biggest of hugs coming your way and I'll put you both in my prayers.

Lena, I'm so sorry for your heart ache.

This is what Rascal might be saying to you: On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

You are there for Rascal and that is all that matters to him- you are his pack. All living beings pass on and it is so hard to take that journey with those we love and know that we will be left behind with memories and a very hurt heart.

But this is what is written when each animal takes it's first breath. Hang in there with Rascal. The death process is just that- a process; and it takes time. Love him through it and then take time for yourself.

My heart goes to yours. Take care.

:(
I know how you feel. My dog what hit by a car recently and I thought she was going to die and I felt horrible. She survived and is still recovering but I dread the day she will pass on. Its tough on everybody when a loved one is lost. I wish you the best of luck and happiness.:sniff:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by OhBalls

So sorry to hear this. :(
I know he's comforted knowing how much you love him. Keeping you in my prayers.

---

Thank you so much for the kind thoughts...I truly appreciate it ;)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by frankykeno

Oh Lena how truly sad for you to have to go through this with your beloved little dog. It's the worst part of pet ownership that they only have such a relatively short time with us. Biggest of hugs coming your way and I'll put you both in my prayers.

---

Thanks for the hugs & prayers Joanna!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by starmom

Lena, I'm so sorry for your heart ache.

This is what Rascal might be saying to you: On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

You are there for Rascal and that is all that matters to him- you are his pack. All living beings pass on and it is so hard to take that journey with those we love and know that we will be left behind with memories and a very hurt heart.

But this is what is written when each animal takes it's first breath. Hang in there with Rascal. The death process is just that- a process; and it takes time. Love him through it and then take time for yourself.

My heart goes to yours. Take care.

---

Thank you McKinsey, it is hard and your words described it perfectly. I just got home from practice and checked on him - his breathing is very shallow, I don't know what to do except lay on the floor with him and pet him and tell him how much I love him :tears:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by TheMolenater2

:(
I know how you feel. My dog what hit by a car recently and I thought she was going to die and I felt horrible. She survived and is still recovering but I dread the day she will pass on. Its tough on everybody when a loved one is lost. I wish you the best of luck and happiness.:sniff:

---

Thanks a bunch! I'm glad to hear she is recovering...give her a hug & a pet from me.
Thanks again to all of you. I think getting it off my chest is making it a little easier to deal with :oops:

lena i am so sorry. really if theres anything you need let me know

Im sorry Lena, hope the little guy gets better:(

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by shiftto5

lena i am so sorry. really if theres anything you need let me know

---

Thanks Trent I appreciate it ;)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by hondo1967

Im sorry Lena, hope the little guy gets better:(

---

Believe me...I would love for him to get better more than anything in the world at the moment. Unfortunately that is not in Rascals future, right now he is on his way to a better place. Its absolutely gut-wrenching to watch and knowing there is nothing I can do for him except to love him. I do appreciate the kind thoughts Mark ;)

aww lena.. so sorry to read about your little Rascal. I hope he does recover. Its never easy losing a pet. I'm still missing my first dog and she passed on about 15 years ago. :hug:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Ladydragon

aww lena.. so sorry to read about your little Rascal. I hope he does recover. Its never easy losing a pet. I'm still missing my first dog and she passed on about 15 years ago. :hug:

---

Thanks Doris :hug:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by lenastorms

...Thank you McKinsey, it is hard and your words described it perfectly. I just got home from practice and checked on him - his breathing is very shallow, I don't know what to do except lay on the floor with him and pet him and tell him how much I love him :tears:...

---

You are doing exactly what he needs you to do... You are being perfect for him. I love you. Stay with him through this.

I know how tough it is, I lost my little pom girl four months ago and she was only eight. Remember the good times.

I am so sorry to hear that. I have a terrier mix, Molly, that I rescued when she was about 1 year old, 10 years ago today, so it really breaks my heart to hear about Rascal.

You will both be in my thoughts. At least he has lived his life with someone who cares very deeply about him.

Hang in there...

I can't imagine what you're going through. I've never really lost a pet besides when I was little and not really attached. But there have been a few times when I look at my dog (who is not quite 6) and think that her life is half over and then she'll be gone. And I get pretty teary-eyed just thinking about it, knowing it's a long way off. For many of us, our pets really are like best friends. Nevaeh has been with me through so much already and if nobody else is around, I always know that she's there to comfort me through the hard times.

Now it's your turn to comfort Rascal in his tough time, knowing his pain is almost over. I know it's cliche (and hard to do!) but it really is easier when you try to think of the good times instead of the loss in your life. And a good support system helps as well! http://img217.exs.cx/img217/5036/pophugbyzappe1ak.gif

Oh sweetheart I'm so sorry. I still have my first dog (that I got once I was on my own), and I am absolutely terrified when this day will come for her. I hope to be able to face it was the same grace and love that you have shown. Hold onto Rascal and give him a hug for me. :hug:

Aw Lena, Im so sorry:tears: At least you know that he has had a great life with you. I have an older dog as well that I have had since she was a puppy, she's doing well but not that dog she used to be. Im not sure how im going to deal with it once she is gone. This must be such a hard and difficult time for you, Stay strong!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by starmom

You are doing exactly what he needs you to do... You are being perfect for him. I love you. Stay with him through this.

---

I won't leave his side, I decided to take the next few days off of work so he won't be home alone. I don't think I could handle coming home and Rascal being gone before I got back... The tought alone makes me sick :tears:Thanks again McKinsey you are a doll :hug:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by TooManyToys

I know how tough it is, I lost my little pom girl four months ago and she was only eight. Remember the good times.

---

I am ;) I remember bringing him home just like it was yesterday - he was so scared and shaking :tears: I am sorry to hear about your loss...hugs coming your way :hug:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by MuzeBallPythons

I am so sorry to hear that. I have a terrier mix, Molly, that I rescued when she was about 1 year old, 10 years ago today, so it really breaks my heart to hear about Rascal.

You will both be in my thoughts. At least he has lived his life with someone who cares very deeply about him.

Hang in there...

---

Thanks so much! Rascal has to be wondering why Im blubbering like a baby - I just can't seem to turn the tears off :tears:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by python.princess

I can't imagine what you're going through. I've never really lost a pet besides when I was little and not really attached. But there have been a few times when I look at my dog (who is not quite 6) and think that her life is half over and then she'll be gone. And I get pretty teary-eyed just thinking about it, knowing it's a long way off. For many of us, our pets really are like best friends. Nevaeh has been with me through so much already and if nobody else is around, I always know that she's there to comfort me through the hard times.

Now it's your turn to comfort Rascal in his tough time, knowing his pain is almost over. I know it's cliche (and hard to do!) but it really is easier when you try to think of the good times instead of the loss in your life. And a good support system helps as well! http://img217.exs.cx/img217/5036/pophugbyzappe1ak.gif

---

Thanks Mel!

Dogs are great...they all ways seem to know when you need them. If I had a bad day Rascal somehow just knew and would curl up in my lap and look up at me with his big brown eyes and my bad day always melted away :rolleyes: Im trying so hard not to cry, but its not working...

You guys are the best...I feel the love ;)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by tigerlily

Oh sweetheart I'm so sorry. I still have my first dog (that I got once I was on my own), and I am absolutely terrified when this day will come for her. I hope to be able to face it was the same grace and love that you have shown. Hold onto Rascal and give him a hug for me. :hug:

---

I got Rascal before I ever even thought of having kids :rolleyes: I knew this day would come, but there is just no way to ever be prepared. :tears:

Thanks bunches Christie :hug:

Aww :( sorry to hear about Rascal. Poor Rascal and poor Lena :(

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Beardedragon

Aw Lena, Im so sorry:tears: At least you know that he has had a great life with you. I have an older dog as well that I have had since she was a puppy, she's doing well but not that dog she used to be. Im not sure how im going to deal with it once she is gone. This must be such a hard and difficult time for you, Stay strong!

---

I'm doing my best to stay strong :tears: Thanks for the well wishes it's definitely appreciated

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by evil mechanic

Aww :( sorry to hear about Rascal. Poor Rascal and poor Lena :(

---

Poor Rascal are my thoughts exactly...thanks Aaron ;)

Leaving for the vet again in a few hours... As much as I hate to say it I know Rascal needs to be put down. Hopefully they listen to my pleas. They say he's not in pain, I beg to differ :tears:

He hasn't eaten in days or drank any water. He can't get up. Starvation & dehydration cannot be a pleasant way to go.

I'm pacing the house at the moment trying to muster up some amount of composure.

Thanks again to all of you for your thoughtful words.

Lena Im so sorry! :hug: Sending strength and peaceful vibes!

Lean I am very very sorry to hear of your lose here is something that I hope will help. My thoughts and feelings go out to you. Remember pets are Gods little watchers. I believe when they pass they get the privilege of reporting to the most high. Like I told Robin some time back I think Rascal will stand at the feet of God almighty and say "Father.. She did a good job..she did a good job"

Its call a dogs Prayer.

Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should your life be in danger.

And, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest--and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.


The Pet Owners 10 commandments
A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS.........

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch.
Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Lena, I'm so sorry you're having to go through this! I hope your vet listens to you....I can't believe they would not respect and understand your wishes given these sorts of circumstances. If I found myself at a vet who was so unsympathetic and unhelpful...I would let them know they've lost my business for good and would go find a new vet right away.

You're in my thoughts and prayers hon. :hug:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by scoobyark

Lena Im so sorry! :hug: Sending strength and peaceful vibes!

---

Strength is much needed - thank you ;)

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Freakie_frog

Lean I am very very sorry to hear of your lose here is something that I hope will help. My thoughts and feelings go out to you. Remember pets are Gods little watchers. I believe when they pass they get the privilege of reporting to the most high. Like I told Robin some time back I think Rascal will stand at the feet of God almighty and say "Father.. She did a good job..she did a good job"

Its call a dogs Prayer.

Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should your life be in danger.

And, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest--and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.


The Pet Owners 10 commandments
A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS.........

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch.
Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

---

That was beautiful...thank you! Here come the water works again :tears:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by JLC

Lena, I'm so sorry you're having to go through this! I hope your vet listens to you....I can't believe they would not respect and understand your wishes given these sorts of circumstances. If I found myself at a vet who was so unsympathetic and unhelpful...I would let them know they've lost my business for good and would go find a new vet right away.

You're in my thoughts and prayers hon. :hug:

---

Thanks a bunch - we are actually seeing a new vet today (4th one) the last 3 all told me the same thing - he is not in pain there is nothing they can do, he is just old. It breaks my heart to see him like this, I don't know how much more Rascal & I can take :please: I pray this vet has a bit more compassion :tears:

Lena Your a brave person I don't know that I could do what you are doing. I know that it our of love for the old man. I wish you the best of luck and you are in my prayers. Keep Rascal close so he can feel you at all times it'll make this time easier for hima dn you to know that your still there for each other.

Sorry to hear what you are going through. I hope everything works out with this new vet.

At least you had all of those wonderful years with Rascal.

Thoughts are with you :hug:

Lena,

I'm absolutely flabberghasted that three vets refused to put him to sleep and to gently ease him on his way to the Rainbow Bridge for you. Could they not see that his quality of life was not good, especially since he couldn't even stand?

My thoughts and prayers are with you and Rascal during this difficult time! :hug:

Rainbow Bridge

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
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...

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by lenastorms

Leaving for the vet again in a few hours... As much as I hate to say it I know Rascal needs to be put down. Hopefully they listen to my pleas. They say he's not in pain, I beg to differ :tears:

He hasn't eaten in days or drank any water. He can't get up. Starvation & dehydration cannot be a pleasant way to go.

I'm pacing the house at the moment trying to muster up some amount of composure.

Thanks again to all of you for your thoughtful words.

---

Lena, I hope this 4th vet understands that the count of the days of life isn't what matters so much as this beloved animal being allowed to leave this world with dignity and your love there to surround him as he goes. No animal should be allowed to die of starvation or dehydration and no vet with a heart should expect you to sit there and allow that to happen to your beloved Rascal.

Letting Rascal go gently is the last gift you can give him. You're a wonderful person and dog owner to make sure that is going to happen for your furry friend. I've been where you are today and it's a hard decision to make but ultimately a very loving one. Our thoughts are with you both.

Lena,
So sorry for the pain that you and Rascal are going through right now. Hopefully peace will come your way soon.

((((((((((((((((lena)))))))))))))) hugs to you, and to rascal.

Thats what happened to my lab mix... one day she just couldn't get up. I know what your going through and I am terribly sorry:( I wish you and your puppy the best! :hug:

RIP Rascal
You will be missed dearly
You truly were my best friend
Godspeed

Lena, I'm so sorry for your loss - but glad that you could find a vet who would listen to your pleas on Rascal's behalf, and for the memories that will sweeten the rest of your life.

~Bruce

Godspeed Rascal. :tears:

I'm terribly sorry for what you had to go through Lena. The death of a loved animal is extremely difficult, in many cases dogs. Dogs get my heart the hardest, and I hope to enjoy my life with my dog before it is her time.

Rest in peace Rascal. Many prayers to you both.

I am so very sorry for your loss. I know my guys are the best friends I could hope for. But you are an awesome doggie guardian. *hugs*

Oh Lena~~ I'm really sorry you're hurting.
{{{{hugs for you}}}}

I just wanted to thank everyone for their kind words and prayers. It really does mean a lot to me. Thank you so very much.

I took Rascal to vet #4 late this afternoon, and once again was turned away. They said they just did not see the need to put him down.

I brought my baby back home and laid him in his bed. I laid there with him until he gasped his last breath, stroking him gently telling him it was OK to go and how much I loved him.

He is in a better place now feeling no pain. The whole family is devastated by this terrible loss. Now the healing process can begin.

Again, thank you all :tears:

:( :( :(

ohhh lena im sorry but im glad he is in a better place! and i hope your family gets better. best wishes

I'm so sorry about your puppy.. I know he had a great life with you! Feel better ok? Nothing can hurt him now. :hug::hug::hug:

Sorry for your family's loss.:(

Sorry to hear that Lena, at least his suffering is done. I am with you on the fact that if he isn't eating or drinking he is suffering.

My thoughts go out to you and your family:( You did everything you could for him, and he was lucky to have you.

Ok, let's see if I can post clearly through tears...

First off, I am SO sorry to hear of the loss and the struggle you had to go through, Lena dear. That's really hard, watching a beloved animal fading away like that. Tons of *HUGS* and comfort to you, dear.

Second, that was terribly unprofessional of those vets!! Regardless of whether the animal is 'in pain' or not...the OWNER counts for something! True, maybe he was just slipping away in their eyes, but the fact that it was hurting you to have to watch should have been reason enough to listen to your request and put him to sleep gently.

Your story reminded me of the worst loss I've ever had to face: The loss of my Ophelia. She was more than just a cat...she was my soul mate, my dearest and closest companion. When she was just 3, she contracted a pretty much incurable stomach disease and had to be put to sleep.
I've lost other pets before, it happens when you keep animals your whole life, but no other creature's loss ever affected me like that... I still cry to this day just thinking about her and how much I miss her.

http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x...enofSheeba.jpg



Take comfort, my friend, in knowing that Rascal is free and eternally a pup. Never forget the good times you had with Rascal. He will live on in your mind and heart for always.

:( How sad. I'm very sorry for your loss. This makes my heart hurt.