Decision time for Titus...

[scribe1128]

Well, after seven months of doing great, in and out of remission, it looks like the lymphoma is getting the better of my Big Ol' Dawg, Titus. He has been going steadily downhill for the past three weeks, had a bout with pancreatitis over Thanksgiving that he beat and was in remission for a time. But this past week, his rear legs have been week and he has been hobbling around like an old man. The vet x-rayed him Monday and said the lymph nodes in his groin are swollen and cutting off circulation to his legs. Titus isn't eating well and is always shaking from pain. We have been giving him a pain medication that knocks him out so he can sleep. He is incontinent in his sleep and the poor guy wakes up in a puddle of pee. Last night, we decided we don't want him to suffer any more. A lot of tears were shed and continue to be, but tomorrow, it looks like Titus will join other BW babies and his big brother, Jake, at the bridge. We were going to help him tonight, but my son is in the middle of college finals until 10 p.m. and wants to be there. So the whole family will be with the Big Guy when he crosses and a friend from work has also offered to be there. His little sister, Lady, knows something is up and she just sits on the floor next this his bed constantly. She doesn't leave his side except to eat and go out to do her business. I know this will be as hard on her as the rest of us. I just got off the phone with the vet and he agreed it is in Titus' best interest to let him go. We have arrange for cremation through a service the vet uses. Thanks everyone for all of your words of support over these several months. Thanks for the prayers and vibes. Titus is only eight, so I feel we have been robbed of a few years. But I don't want him to suffer any more. I have read many threads on this board since I joined in 2001 and have cried with every Rainbow Bridge posting. I know that my turn would eventually come, just not so soon. Thanks, everyone.
Cheryl

 

[Jamielyn]

Your family is in my thoughts.

 

[Linda/NJ]

Cheryl: I am very sad to read this post. I feel I get to know all my BW friends really well & it breaks my heart to hear Titus is not doing well. I know it is a very tough decision but I agree it is best that he does not suffer any more. Sending you & your family tons and tons of {{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}

 

[haleyandmark]

Our hearts go out to you guys during this tough time.

I'm so sorry you have to go through this - I think no one should! I hate these sorts of posts, but I know that it will happen one day, and when it does, it's best not to let the guy suffer. You are doing the right thing.

We will be thinking of you all

 

[Kosmo's Mom]

My thoughts go out to you & your family at this difficult time.

Godspeed Titus

 

[robinette]

I am so sad for you, My thoughts are with you. Stay strong.

 

[debbie knowles]

Oh Cheryl,
I am so sorry to hear that Titus is losing his battle....I had so hoped he would do well for a good while longer. I know you will take tonight to say your goodbyes and treat Titus to the most special night of his life. I know how hard this is to let go, but you must know in your heart that what you are doing is the greatest act of love and devotion you can show him and he knows that. He also knows just how much you love him and how bad you will hate to see him go but he also knows that you are so unselfishly taking the suffereing upon yourself so he will no longer have to and that takes great courage and strength on your part.
This evening, try to take some pictures of him...I know that may sound odd but I took some of H & G both shortly before they left us and although it took me several months to develope them and be able to look at them...they are now the most cherished photos I have. Try to stay strong and I know that is so much easier said than done...hug him tight and tell him we all love him. Remember he will not be alone..he will join a very very special group of cherished loved ones just like himself that will all be eagerly waiting to welcome him as he arrives at the bridge. May God bless and comfort you all. djk

Dear Titus,
I know you have fought long and hard to stay here with your beloved family as you don't want to leave them, as you love them as much as they love you. Just remember they are sending you on this journey, not because they do not love you..but because they love you way too much to make you stay here and suffer....and that is their greatest act of love. Don't be afraid, Titus...you are going to a better place where there is no sickness and where you will run and play like a silly pup again. When you get there, I am certain that Goliath will be there to help show you around and show you where the very best snacks and toys are kept...Godspeed sweet boy. We will miss you. djk

 

[ZachsMom]

Cheryl-
I am at a loss for words! Please know you and your family are in my thoughts. It was great meeting Titus at the Irvine Bark Park. I'm sure Zachy will be at the gates of Heaven to greet his buddy.
Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Christine and Ellie

 

[Gruntsmom]

It's always hard to read threads like this one, but I know that this is all part of the package, part of life. Titus is one of BW's babies, and you and your family are part of BW's family, and we share good times and sad times. My deepest sympathy goes out to you, your family and little Lady. It is a painful decision to make, but a merciful and loving one, not to prolong your boy's suffering. You will meet again - meanwhile, he is with you in your hearts and memories. Godspeed, Titus, go sweetly to meet your brother Jake.

 

[cody&duke]

I am so sorry to hear about Titus. I also had to make that awful decision to help Cody to the bridge. It was the best thing though because I know he is no longer in pain and you can feel that way as well. I am so sorry for you loss.