Mario was put to rest Friday morning, 12 Jan, at the vet’s office. He was 16. He had been in a state of neurological decline for several weeks. His vet felt that he probably had a brain tumor, given the variety of symptoms he presented which included seizures, tremors, and weakness in his hind legs. He also had congestive heart failure and a history of a murmur. Thursday evening his breathing became more labored and then he couldn’t get himself up to go out before bed. When I carried him to the yard and set him down squarely on all four legs, he couldn’t make his back legs move to walk and the expression on his face told me it was time. Christmastime marked 11 years with him as a member of my household. I’ve spent quite a bit of the weekend decompressing, emotionally, and also cleaning the house. I imagine that reality may strike me again when I get up to go to work Tuesday morning and don’t have to go through the routine with him for the first time.
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I’m very sorry for your loss. Mario’s a very good looking hound. Many of the same things happened with my first beagle Duke and I had to let him go back in 1995. It was the hardest decision of my life but I still know it was the right thing and you did the right thing also. Be very happy for the memories and that you had a long time with Mario. He will always be with you too. Good luck and I’m sorry.
Im so sorry hun, I know what you are going through and it’ll rough when it hits you but,…with time it’ll be ok and think of it this way you’ll have an amazing angel on your side.
Besos
I know that you will miss Mario a great deal. I suggest you go immediately to the Gainesville pound and start looking for a new companion.
Hank, thanks for the kind thought, but I’m actually looking forward to being pet free here for a while and enjoying the freedom that comes from that.
Awww. dang. I haven’t been reading blogs or even to FLICKR since before Christmas. I am so sorry to hear about Mario. I know exactly what you are going through. I hope you can take some comfort that you gave him such a good life and that you were there for him to ease him from his pain. All dogs should be so lucky to have such a good human.
We put down our 16 year old furry beast last year. FWIW, I lasted exactly 5 months until I got a new puppy and I was really enjoying traveling and being spontaneous but I truly missed the fur baby hugs and kisses. You can see my beloved Bubba and the new Little Hellion in my FLICKR sets if you wish.
I send you comfort and hugs. I’m very sorry for the loss of your beloved companion.
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