Yesterday we had to say goodbye to our sweet dog Cleo. It came as a huge surprise and we are still in shock. She was about nine years old and seemed very healthy, but had been throwing up for a few days. She has a sensitive stomach in general so I didn’t worry much until yesterday she was still not keeping down even water and was very lethargic, so I took her to the vet.
They did an x-ray and told us that first, she had a pellet in her abdomen (like from a pellet gun, most likely swallowed) but it was unclear exactly where it was because second, there was a whole lot of inflammation which probably indicated a raging infection/abscess. They did bloodwork and all signs pointed that direction, but the problem was we couldn’t tell what was really causing it. Could have just been the pellet, could be a tumor. Either way, they would have had to do serious surgery to even give her a chance, and her prognosis was still poor.
She was obviously miserable and after a lot of talking, questioning the vet, and crying we made the decision to put her down. It was such a hard call to make but in the end we couldn’t see putting her through all that when her chances weren’t good. David came from work to be with me when she went, and we held her and it was easy and painless. I am so glad that she had a good life and didn’t suffer long.
Cleo was my dog from before I was married and I loved her so much. She was super sweet and was great with Meredith. She saw me through the biggest changes of my life and I will always miss her.
From Nora:
Oh, Kathleen. I’m so sorry for your loss. Dogs are such an integral part of our family structures and losing them is so incredibly tough. I will be thinking of you during the coming days and weeks. Hugs and prayers for all of you. xo.
From Sarah:
I’m so sorry!
From Kara:
Oh, I’m so, so, sorry to read this. Losing a pet, especially one that has been with you during so much of your life, is so unbelievably hard, even more so when it’s an unexpected passing. Just remember that she’s in a happier place, free of pain, and watching down on you and your family. All dogs go to heaven, you know. Hugs to you, and sending warm thoughts your way. xo
From Lauren W:
I’m still praying for you and your family! Love you, friend.
From Krista:
I’m so sorry to hear this. Losing a pet his incredible hard. Thoughts with you and your family during this difficult time.
From Krista:
My sister-in-law read this book to my nieces when our family dog passed away. She was 2 and a half at the time and I think it was really helpful:
Up in Heaven
by Emma Chichester Clark
Daisy is Arthur’s dog, and she’s devoted to him. But she’s very old, and lately she’s finding it hard to keep up with Arthur. One night, after she goes to sleep as usual, she wakes up in heaven. Heaven is a wonderful place, and Daisy loves it there. But she knows Arthur is sad and misses her. So Daisy finds a way to let Arthur know she’s happy—and that’s the first step toward making him happy again, too
From Nikki:
Oh Kat, I’m so sorry. That is such a terrible, difficult, beyond sad thing to go through, and I know it wasn’t easy making that decision. It’s really too bad that our furry friends are only with us for such a short time. I hope the sadness soon turns into happy memories, and I definitely agree, all dogs go to Heaven! So she is happy and healthy and enjoying an unlimited supply of dog treats and guilt-free things to chew on.
From Stephany:
I am so sorry, Kathleen. It is so hard to lose a pet – they are a family member! And in such a shocking way. I’ll be praying for peace for your family!