Elizabeth this is such a difficult question, and everyone is right, you must be the one to decide when your noble dog has lost her quality of life. When she is ready to go to dog heaven she will give you a look...it's not like any other look. There is a very loving yet serious look in their eyes, her face will tell you that she is ready, and that she will always love you. It is a look of somewhat of a plea, and a brave look, and a look full of love, and a look that shows obvious pains or discomfort, and humilation from the loss of bodly functions. It's that look that is branded in my mind from when I had to also make that decision with my yellow lab, Beener. Just listen to your heart, and notice the looks that your dog gives you, those are her hints that she is ready. They always know before we know. Dogs are very psychic and intuitave. This is a most painful and difficult decision and we all understand your pain. We have all felt it and understand completely how heart wrenching it is to make the final decision.

I am so sorry for you. Here is a poem for you to read that I copied from a pet loss website.

When The Time Comes
-------------------

Lord, when the time comes please help me be strong
my furry friend is sick; something's terribly wrong
The vet checked her over; there's nothing he can do
I'm afraid soon I'll be sending her; home to You

Please take her back home; on the wings of a dove
into Your loving arms; up in heaven above
Take her to a meadow; where she can play and run free
under bright sunlight; among the green grass and trees

She's been a part of my life now; for so many years
I'll miss her so much; my eyes are filling with tears
Please give me the courage; to tell her good-bye
as I know she'll watch over me; through her loving eyes

I'll never forget her; I'll see her one day
tell her we'll meet at the Bridge; then we'll go play
I'll cherish the memories; of the time we both had
they'll put a smile on my face; then I won't feel as bad


John Quealy


P.S. please don't feel pressured to be there for the euthanasia. Do only what you are comfortable doing, your dog will love you whether you are there with her or not. Some people just can not handle that, it's OK if you can't. Please know that the vets will take good care of her, and she will be O.K.. I don't want you, or anyone else, to feel that they need to be there during the procedure. I was there with my lab, but the rest of my family could not face it. They were not ready to witness our beautiful friend take his last breath. I honor and bless their decision. I don't want anyone to feel guilty or feel that they have to do something they are not ready for. If you are afraid to witness it, or you simply don't think you can, please don't feel you must. It is so incredibly quick, the heart stops within seconds of the enjection, the beloved dogs don't have time to ponder and wonder where you are. It's over like that, and then they are with you in spirit...lovingly thanking you for the most unselfish gift.

[ August 01, 2001: Message edited by: AdoreMyDogs ]