Sleep well my Bandit until we meet again (euthanize, animals, shedding)
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I've just returned from the vet and giving my Bandit the final act of kindness I could do for him. We rescued Bandit from a puppy mill operation over 7 1/2 years ago where he had been used and abused as a stud dog for the 1st part of his life. Fearful and wary, filthy and bearing the scars of the hell he had lived through, we were told if we didn't take him, he was to be euthanized the next day. It was by chance that this remarkable dog entered our lives that day. From that day forward he fully gave us his trust to help him to heal in body and spirit. For all he had gone through, no animal has ever exuded more of an air of acceptance of life. We called him The Philosopher. Gentle, steady and calm, he would lay, front paws crossed, observing the chaos of life as it went on around him. One of his greatest joys was to lay in a sunny spot on the grass, his nose pointed into the wind and just enjoy the sounds, sights and smells of the day. Then at days end, curled up on his dog bed he would fall asleep. Always with his favorite stuffed toy tucked between his paws. So it remained during our time together. There are so many stories, so much I could say about this very special dog. He was the most giving and the least demanding of all my animals. Up until this last week. At 14 1/2 years old his frail body finally began to fail him. This morning as I tried to help him to rise off his dog bed I knew that his back legs had finally given out on him. He gave me the look, one that said it was time, that he was ready to leave us and this life. My darling Bandit, so calm and steady in life, left me today the same way. Quietly and without any drama, he slipped away as I cradled him in my arms. Goodbye my noble Bandit and thank you for all the lessons you have taught me. I will be with you again when my time here is through.
I read this a short time ago...but had to compose myself before I could type. I know all to well your pain. My heart is just aching for you and your family. Take solace, Bandit shared his love and life with you, as you did with him. What a way to go...knowing you have been loved and cherished for the last 7 1/2 yrs. Bandit sounds as tho he was a magnicficent companion....Lucky you...lucky him...RIP Bandit. ((Hugs))
That has to be the hardest thing to do. I once worked for a vet, but had to quit because I couldn't handle putting the dogs to sleep when they needed to be. I would go home every night in tears. My heart goes out to you and Bandit.
Bandit was a rescue puppy and you came together when he needed you and I believe in my heart he knew it was time for you to reach out and do the same for another rescue. He had recieved and given much love - but now there is someone else out there that needs it even more and he knows that.
a peaceful and dignified end to a wonderful second half.....knowing only love and kindness...... would that we all could have that......his trust and peace and contentment with you are a testament to you and yours as well...... RIP sweet bandit........
Last edited by latetotheparty; 11-02-2009 at 12:57 PM..
VA-Cat, I truly feel your intense sadness and loss. You blessed Bandit with giving him a loving and caring life, and clearly rescued him from imminent death. His blessings to you in return, was loyalty and devotion. Your lives have been forever meshed, and his memories will allow his spirit to live in, within your heart and thoughts. You did indeed, selflessly give him a loving and peaceful way to leave and travel across that rainbow bridge.
I just faced the same with my beloved Blueberry....and as much as it hurts, and as much as I miss her, I'm thankful for the time we had to together and for how wonderful she made my life with her. I'm sure you feel the same about Bandit.
Bless you for rescuing him, for giving him such a great life together and for giving him a loving way to leave. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
I'm sorry you lost your friend. Thanks for rescuing him and giving him a life with a happy ending! Though it's hard to think of it that way, maybe, right after putting him down. That's what you did, gave him a good life until the inevitable end.
All your friends here on the boards send our love and support to you and your family. Thank you for giving Bandit a wonderul life and for having the courage to help him rest in peace.
Location: Vermont, grew up in Colorado and California
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So precious, reminds alot of Phoenix who we lost last summer, we had her from the beginning as a Pup, had cancer twice, was always so good about everything and in the end let us know when she was tired of it all.
I don't know you, but I'm shedding tears for your loss as I type this. My warm thoughts are with you.
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