Pete,
Sigh, we know how you feel. /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif
When we found the second set of tumors on Chase, the vets operated on her to take them out. Very early in the operation they came out to talk to my wife and told her that the cancer had spread. Did she want to just go ahead and put Chase to sleep.
We decided not too. Its a tough call and no right or wrong answers. Ironically, I guess it gets back to the answer I gave you over the chick. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif We made a decision and I think it turned out for the best. The vets only gave Chase a few weeks. She lasted for six months or so. During her last few weeks it was obvious that her time was approaching. And we knew when it was time....
Its tough to know when animals are in pain. They hide it so well. I don't know how much pain she was in but she seemed to be her old self until the very end. She would get tired easily as time went on but she was still her old jolly self. I swear that dog lasted on just pure love until the very end. She simply did not want to go.
My wife and I knew when it was time. I think Chase did as well.
We spent alot of money on Chase and Thorpe. Money that would be real helpful right now. But I don't regret one cent on what we spent keeping those dogs alive. We had three different vet practices helping Chase. She got the best we could give.
I think we have talked about this before. Both Chase and Thorpe. And the fact that we had Chase put to sleep at home. It was easier on everyone. Its an option not many people know about but some vets will come to the house and put the animal to sleep at home. It made things much easier for us and more importantly, Chase.
These critters give you part of their soul when they are with us. The danged hard part is that they take part of OUR souls when they leave.
Which is how it should be....
Later,
Dan
