I'm so sorry it's coming down to "that time". The time we ALL dread as pet owners. I have been asked " Why do you do that to yourself? You know they will die long before you so why even get them in the first place, then you save yourself the heartache." I have told them that the pure and honest love you get from your animals makes it worth the heartache. Look at all the long, or not so long in some cases, years of love, devotion, companionship, laughter, tears, memories we have and cherish of our beloved companions. It would not hurt so much if we have no loved so well and be loved so well in return. Yes it's hard to lose them, I dread the day one of mine goes, I know they will take part of my heart with them. But I also have all the joy they have given me so I hope that will see me through, as I hope it sees you through the coming hard times. We will be here for you and I wish many prayers and thoughts to Nanook, and you, that he will be as happy as possible until "that time" and that when it comes it will be peaceful. Hugs to you for what you have to deal with.