Been thinking of the two of you all weekend. The loss of Semmi is still fresh...her crate is still in the kitchen and her bed still in our bedroom...so we haven't decided to move on yet. Oscar is still looking for her, but not so much. I don't know when we will move her stuff out, but I think it is going to be a little while yet. I'm letting hubby decide to do all that in his own time. This is his first loss, and so hard on him.
You are so fortunate to have had this past year with him, and that you have been able to give him comfort and love and wonderful care. Cherish each day, each hour, each minute. Their time with us is so short to begin with, and the cancer robs you of the little time you have together.
Be comforted in the fact, that THEY will tell YOU when it is time. I kept asking Semmi over and over again if she was ready, how much pain she was in, etc. All I got was a smile, a wiggly butt and her bright eyes.
But on Wednesday night, there was no smile, there was no wiggle, no sparkle at all. She was ready.
It takes so much strength to set them free, but rest assured, that when you do, you will feel that burden lift and their spirit will go on. There will be no more pain for them, no more issues. But for you, the journey is just beginning, and it takes time and effort. My Brandy, an eighteen year old mutt, passed away in 1999. I still mourn his shaggy little head.
As you know, the coughing is not a good sign with this stupid cancer. As long as you still have a dog who smiles, who wiggles and loves, all is well in their world.
We are here to offer words and support should you need them...
*BIG HUGS* to you both. I know the heartbreak...believe me.