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Jeez, this post just made me cry. All I can say is that it sounds like you've done the most wonderful thing that Dude could have ever asked for. You gave him many months in a warm, loving home with you, and like you said, he will pass away in the arms of someone who loves him, not in a cage. I'm sure that means the world to him. *hugs*
Thank you so very much, everyone, for your prayers, good wishes and support. It would have been much harder if I hadn't had PT to turn to when I needed to release my feelings. I am going to post about Dude in the memorial forum later but I can let you know now that Dude, as I had hoped, died peacefully in my arms at home on Friday late afternoon. He gave me the most incredible gift in the hour before he had to leave me. After I gave him his last pain med shot at 4pm, he became a little restless and I decided to try scooping him up very gently and putting him on my lap while I sat at the computer table. I thought he would get down, but for that last hour he sat quietly on my lap, leaning into me and purring softly as I stroked his back. He even gave me a few head bumps, two under the bosom (he always was a ladies' man) and one to my head. The vet who came was the partner who is excellent at these times, very soft-spoken, patient and understanding. While Dude lay in my arms after it was over, he told me that his 15-year-old Sharpei (?sp) had died that Monday. We talked for a while about letting go, trying not to be selfish, facing what we have to do, it was a very supportive talk. I spent five minutes with Dude after the vet left, tucking the lock of hair under his front leg and putting the flowers on him, telling him how much he had meant to me. Then I wrapped him in a small red blanket and took him back to the vet.
I think they know how to make us feel better even though they are dying. Animals are so unselfish that way, taking care of us even though they are in pain. Dude had a loving and wonderful life with you and I know he appreciates everything you did for him. It is so hard to let them go. I have had to do it many times and it never gets easier. I still grieve over the babies I have lost and hope to see them all one day when it is my time. Take care of yourself Lizzie, I will be thinking about you. If you need anything just let me know.
Melissa
I am so sorry to read about Dude. You wrote so lovingly about him, one could not help feel how much he meant to you...
I am so sorry to hear about Dude. I'm glad that he spent his last hour being very close to you. He knew how much he was loved.
Rest in Peace dear Dude. You were loved and will never be forgotten.
{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}} Lizzie.
:( RIP Dude.
I can't begin to tell you how sad it is to hear of Dude's passing. It must have been comforting to have him snuggle, purr, and give you headbumpies in his last hour. Dude knew how very much you loved him, and he loved you in return. He's with the Pet Angels now romping and playing at the RB with no pain or discomfort.
RIP, Dude. You certainly will be missed.
I'm just now reading this and want to send sympathies your way. RIP Dear One