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.





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.