Vox

RIP, Baby Dog

I had to put my dog to sleep today. She wasn't a baby, she was 13, but that is one of the many names we called her. She was deaf from birth, so I don't think the name thing was very important to her.

When we first got her, and I took her to the vet, he said I should just put her to sleep. He claimed a dog with as many problems as she had would never make a good pet. He was certain that a dog that couldn't see or hear could never bond with her humans. He could not have been more wrong. She was so very sweet, and so very affectionate - just an absolute cuddle bug.

And, deaf and blind though she was, she was the best fetching dog I have ever had. She would chase that ball for hours - I guarantee you would have tired out long before her. Though it has been a while since she played that game, I still left the balls around the house. Every now and then she would pick one up, though she only dropped it and moved on.

She has been uncomfortable, at the least, and possibly even suffering for some time. I have felt bad about her condition, but was unable to make the tough decision to let her go. I just was so afraid that she still felt some joy in her life. The choice was pretty much made for me today.

I can not stress enough the quality of the staff at Apollo Animal Hospital at 51st & Peoria. They were so patient with me, and so sweet and gentle with her. I had the same impression of them when I had to have my other dog put down several years ago. It is a horrible thing to go through and the people who take you through it can make all the difference.

To my friends and family who may be getting ideas - I DO NOT NEED ANOTHER DOG.

I DO NOT WANT ANOTHER DOG.

I never want to go through this again, and you know I made the decision long ago that she would be my last. If you show up with a dog, it will be going right back with you.

NO. NO. NO.

Posted by Vox at December 15, 2006 03:13 PM | animals , personal