Saying goodbye to an old friend.

I just came back to the site yesterday from another absence.
Little did I know then how things would change overnight.

My sweet old Mr. Jiggs, one of our Newfies, started acting different this morning, and as the day went on, his breathing became laboured.
I immediately phoned the vet, and we got him in there.
After tests and x-rays, we've found out he has a mass on his stomach, and it's bleeding.
Nothing can be done.
We will be saying goodbye to him tomorrow morning.
I'm completely broken.
His 12th birthday is this Saturday. I'd already planned his special dinner.

When it comes to showing emotions, I don't hold back, so I have no shame in saying I'm bawling my eyes out right now.
My sweet old couch potato is still at the vets, so they can make sure he is comfortable overnight. I know that's good for him. But I so want him here with me.
And I so want to do him proud in the morning. I know if he sees me crying so much, he will be stressed out worrying about me, like he's done so many times. He's been a rock for me with this stupid growth on my brain.
It's my turn to do the same for him. I hope I can.

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

I'm so sorry to hear that. It's an awful time for you. Will be thinking of you today. I dread the time when I have the same decision to make. Just try to remember the good times Jackie. XX

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

What a gorgeous dog, LMBs, I can understand your pain at losing him but you know he will never leave your heart.

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

So sad to hear this, understandable or animals are part of the family.

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

Oh Jackie, even I have tears in my eyes so I am sending a big hug
When we lose anybody precious in our lives, of course we are distraught and miss them terribly, and it is obvious how much you love and will miss Mr Jiggs. All you can do now is make the hardest decision any pet owner has to make, because it will probably be the kindest thing you ever do for him. He may no longer be able to sit beside you, but I am sure he is leaving to lots of wonderful memories.... and they will stay with you forever.
I agree you should try to be brave when you say goodbye, for his sake, but feel free to have a darn good cry after, because it may help you.
When I have had to have pets put to sleep, I always want to be touching them when they go ( stupidly I feel it may give them comfort). I am distraught afterwards, but I always have a feeling of comfort because my lovely pet will suffer no more.
Don't be sad about losing him, be grateful that he shared his life with you and made you happy.

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

I'm so sad for you Jackie . Mr Jiggs looks a lovely boy and it's so sad to say goodbye . Thinking of you both today

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

Oh my dear you have me crying now too, it's so hard when we have to say goodbye but making him comfortable and out of pain is the most important thing you will ever do for him. Looking at him he looks like he's had a fantastic life with you, loved to the end, how lucky he's been finding you to love him.

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

thinking of you x

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

Its heart breaking .

Re: Saying goodbye to an old friend.

I am so sorry lmb. I understand how you feel, as you know. The beautiful photo you did for me of my little Muffin stays on display, so he´s still with me every day. Like my little Muffin, your Mr Jiggs will always be with you.
Mr Jiggs has had a happy life, he has been much loved and cared for, a lucky dog to have shared your life. My thoughts are with you.