Kate,

I am so sorry to hear of your sweet Henry's troubles...Bless his sweet heart.
I hope that the antibiotics will help the problem with his teeth, however his kidney trouble poses a much more difficult problem. We lost our sweet Billy last summer to kidney failure, so I can understand and sympathize so with what you are going through now. We were able to give him sub-q fluids at home for a year before he died, which made it easier to treat him for a longer period of time...I wish your vet would agree to that...Would it be possible to find another vet that might agree to allowing you to treat him with fluids at home?

In the meantime, the best you can do is what you are doing...Love him bunches, and try to keep him as comfortable as possible for as long as possible. There will come a time though, when his kidney failure will progress to a point where you will likely have to make the "decision." I know what a horrendous situation this is to be faced with...When we were at the end with our Billy, we too hoped that he would just fall asleep and pass on that way, but it never happened.

You are such a loving, kind and compassionate person for looking after Henry...He is so lucky to have you. Bless you for all that you are doing for him. It is so difficult caring for a sick animal that you love, when there is only so much that you can do for them. Please know that all of us here at Pet Talk are thinking of you and sweet Henry, and are praying for you both.

Judy