Lost a companion and friend today

[oldpotatoe]

NOT trying to be 'debbie downer' or anything today and not really looking for comments or sympathy but this forum is a group of friends and talking to friends sometimes eases the pain.

I have empathy and sympathy for anybody who has a pet, a companion, and losing them is one of the hardest things to go through. They are friendly, compassionate, engaging, loyal..innocent so when one gets sick and the decision must be made, after all possibilities have been exhausted..

It's really hard..so there it is, my Cleo has died. I cry for him...

[Mzilliox]

Im sorry brother. Oddly, just this morning I found the microchip number of my girl i lost just before x mas 5 years ago. it still tears me up to think about her. we have no idea what happened after she ran off. her brother came back and she never did. breaks my heart.

thoughts are with you today

[charliedid]

RIP

I know your pain.

Best regards.

[old_fat_and_slow]

My condolences Pete. Dogs are the best.

Cling to the happy memories.

[David Kirk]

I'm sorry to read this. I've been there too and no doubt will be there again and know all too well how it feels. I hold my glass high in honor of your companion and you.

dave

[buddybikes]

So sorry,
Jump back in the saddle (as in new dog) that is needing your love.

Or take your few long trips then do it after coming back

[marciero]

Sorry to hear. Coincidentally, I had a dog named Cleo as a child.

[alfordjo]

We have been through this many times and it never gets easier. So Sorry Peter.

[madsciencenow]

Pete, sorry to hear about the loss of your friend!

Happy hunting grounds for him and peace for you or maybe a new best friend in the future.

[NHAero]

So sorry to here this Peter. It never gets easier. Lost our last one in December. Bright side is a new girl here, all the way from Arkansas, where her life started out not too great. Hoping similar for you.

A toast to man's best friend, indeed!

[AngryScientist]

hardest thing ever.

we have to remember that the good times were worth the pain 100x.

[Tickdoc]

SO hard to see such a selfless animal go. It is such a hard thing to go through. Had to go with the last two to send them "home" and it is just gut wrenching.

I know you didn't ask for it, but our sympathies are all there. I know this place was very helpful to me last time I went through it. You offered a great life to "cleo" and that says a lot.

Remember all the good times and hopefully in time you can find another companion. There are so many out there that need someone like you.

[MattTuck]

Damn Peter, I'm sure you gave him a good life, and he appreciates it and will love you for it always.

[Bentley]

So my "handle" is my old Bulldog's name. I had him for just a short 9 years, not particularly short for a Bulldog but he was "special".

He had a couple of emergency surgeries in his day, the first one set me back 7K because he ate a mango, pit and all. He did that twice. I have an Orange Tree that he mangled, he was like a 2 year old.

About 2 years ago he developed a "cough", asked the wife to take him to the vet. She said it was "old dog cough", I took him back and it was just a case of a $600 X-Ray, that showed Pneumonia and a "mass". Gave him the antibiotics and took him to a specialist.

The Specialist told me she would need him for 4 hours and that he might have a "weird haircut", I told her that would be ok. When I returned I got the bad news, he was terminal. Asked how long he had, she said she was not sure, I asked for 2 weeks.

Spent the next two weeks on a Dog "Bucket List", basically he got to do what ever he wanted and ate like a "Prince". At the end I took him to the vet. She told me its the last act of Love, it did not feel like love, I cried like a baby.

He was a hell of a friend

[Dave Ferris]

I'm so sorry. We lost two within a year span 5 years ago. We now just have one -- a Border Collie and she has accompanied me on every run the last five years, with the exception of a few weeks total being out of town. I figure she has run over 7,000 miles with me in the 5 years. I can't imagine running without her but I know someday I will and it tears me up just to think about it.

We know the feeling all too well when they go, it's simply the worst of times. Sincere condolences and best getting through this heart wrenching period.

[woodworker]

I won't forget comforting my dog on the floor of the vet's office before they had to put her down. The vet, who had known her since she was a pup (and thought that she would likely die a decade earlier from Parvo), walked in and started tearing up, so he excused himself and came back after regaining his composure.

Apparently, even those who have been through it many times can have the same reaction (though he was definitely a Dr. Doolittle type). It's tough. ...but that's because it's such a damn blessing.

Take care.

[RFC]

Its hard to do, but you did the right thing. When pets are terminally ill and in pain, and we take heroic measures to prolong their lives, we are doing that for ourselves, not for them.

[biker72]

Been through this a few times myself Peter. Have a couple of beers and remember the good times. I'm so very sorry for your loss.

[Gsinill]

Sorry to hear Peter.
Been there too many times myself and will be there again.
Take comfort in having done the right thing.
RIP Cleo!

[Elefantino]

Thinking of you, Peter.

Friends are friends, furry or otherwise. They'll always be missed but also you'll always remember the good times!

[Ken Robb]

Been through this several times. We weren't sure we were doing the right thing when we adopted Eric while we still had our 17 year-old bichon but they got along ok during their meet/greet at the pound so we brought them both home. The good surprise was how much perkier the old guy was with a new housemate. Maybe that was because he had lost his 16 year-old brother a few months earlier.

Now, for the point of this long story: through our tears as we drove home from the old guys last trip to the vet Leslie and I agreed we were very happy NOT to be going home to a quiet, empty house. Sure enough, we opened the door from the garage and there was Eric at the top of the steps wagging his whole body. This mad a sad time less so. I know some folks need a time of mourning but that's not what works for us and there are SO MANY cool dogs needing homes we couldn't wait to get another.

[shinomaster]

My most sincere condolences for your loss. Over two years we lost our beloved Max cat, and then my much adored Leo White Paws. I still miss that Leo..

[GonaSovereign]

Dogs are the best. I’ll raise a glass to your pup tonight.

[fmradio516]

I hate this. When this happens, it really makes me want to just not own a pet, but they make me happy. Im sorry for your loss.

[El Chaba]

It's like losing a family member, because that's what it is....

[xnetter]

Condolences :-(

I have been there before and will be again. Our lab is only 5 but I already dread her getting old.

As others have said, cherish the good memories and then find another one. Lots of awesome puppers out there that need loving homes like yours.

KJ

[GScot]

Sorry to hear. It's rough. Lost a friend just last year and my running buddy is 12 now. He was still ready run to 3-5 miles every day until about 6 months ago and we switched gears to hiking. I hug him every day like it might be the last but fortunately he is still doing pretty well.

[tv_vt]

Sorry for you, bud. I miss all of our pets who've passed on. Special creatures.

[El Chaba]

I lost this kook about two years ago. Part of my job involves being "in the field" outdoors and I would try my best to have him with me on those occasions. He had a great long life for a dog of his size (almost 16 years) and only his last month was hard on him. You know the day will eventually come, but you really are never prepared...I still miss him-some days even moreso, but at this point it's mostly very fond memories....

[mcteague]

Many of us have been through this and feel your pain. Its always difficult to decide whether to get another pet soon after. Dogs lives are so short lots of folks just can't put themselves through it again. I've been through it three times but cannot imagine life without a dog. Hang in there.

Tim

[zmudshark]

...

[makoti]

Can't tell you how I feel for you. No matter how many pets you have, losing one is always, always brutal. The hardest thing to say to your pet is "It's time".
Take comfort in knowing you did the best you could for Cleo. That's all he ever wanted.

[bob heinatz]

Sorry Peter for your loss. My wife and I have gone thru this a few times and it is never easy. We do have great memories of all our past dogs. In time you will reflect on all the great memories you had with your special friend.

[homagesilkhope]

Sorry for your loss, Peter. I've lost a couple quadruped pals over the years and think I know your pain.

Listened to an interview with the author this morning and thought - especially with your own time in Japan - you might find some comfort here:

https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/a-knack-for-embracing-impermanence-on-pico-iyers-autumn-light/#!

[19wisconsin64]

So sorry for your loss. You'll always remember your companion, and the good times too.

[Keith A]

Peter -- I'm so sorry to hear this sad news. It's never easy to loose a loved one, even when it's their time to go. There's a void left behind with their departure that for me never fills in, but it does get easier as time passes.

[bigbill]

I'm not a cat person but after the divorce, I ended up with one of the cats. The ex got Ginger, I got Maryann. We got Maryann from the SPCA in 2008 as a kitten. I moved from Texas to Arizona, most of the drive with Maryann on my lap. I moved into a house and started my new life alone, but I wasn't alone, MA was there every afternoon and expected to be picked up and petted for a few moments. She was indoor/outdoor cat and had a door. About a month ago, some kind of predator killed her. Didn't destroy or eat her, just bite marks. Likely a dog, a coyote would have eaten her. I was destroyed and numb when I dug the grave out back. I don't want another cat, yet.

[Matthew]

Very sorry Peter. Hold on to the great memories, knowing your pup was loved to the fullest. I am sure he new it too. My wife and I have 7 cats currently and we dread the day we have to make the brutal decision you had to make. Regardless of how often we've done it, it's never easy. I sit here with tears in my eyes and I have never met you or your pet. I just know the pain you feel. Take your time and heal. Maybe there's another pup to love in the future. Our condolences, Matthew and Susan

[tuscanyswe]

That is tough. Sorry to hear.

[soulspinner]

So sorry. Still dream about Rufus my 159 pound Newfie.

[OtayBW]

Yessir - hardest 3 things I think I ever had to do was to let my 2 dogs and cat go at different times. You never forget, but remember, each day DOES get a little easier.

[Cornfed]

Pets are family. My sincere condolences.

[paredown]

Sorry to read this--it is hard to lose a furry friend.

(The first dog I really got to know was a rescue Boxer named Cleo--she was my running companion and much else for the years I shared a house with friends. A complete sweetheart--as it sounds like your Cleo was as well..)

[ojingoh]

Sorry to hear about your loss, Peter.

[gavingould]

not a day goes by that i don't recall the good times with my greyhound Blue.
gone a bit more than two years now... it doesn't really get easier.

[PQJ]

Sorry for your loss, Peter. As others have said, it sucks. Really, really hurts. But time will heal that wound and you will be left with wonderful memories. Dogs are the bees knees.

[peanutgallery]

Bury them in repose in the yard with their favorite blanket, pillow, toy etc.

When appropriate time has passed, adapt and replace. Lost our 15 year old Lab at Xmas last year, a month later received a notification thru a friend that a similar was looking dog was in need of a home in order to celebrate Valentines Day. Posed with toys and similar name. Kismet...and I'm a sucker:)

[peanutgallery]

Ahhh, yes...the apple of the collective eye at our house



Bury them in repose in the yard with their favorite blanket, pillow, toy etc.

When appropriate time has passed, adapt and replace. Lost our 15 year old Lab at Xmas last year, a month later received a notification thru a friend that a similar was looking dog was in need of a home in order to celebrate Valentines Day. Posed with toys and similar name. Kismet...and I'm a sucker:)

[daker13]

I've lost a couple of pets in the last six months and with both of them I cried like a baby. Not sure why I'd bear greater losses with fewer tears, but there you have it--something about losing an animal really gets to me. Sorry for your loss.

[gasman]

It’s so sad to lose a pet who becomes such an integral part of ones daily life. Dogs are so wonderful. There’s a great saying “ We give them a decade and they give us their whole life.”

[nmrt]

I am sorry, Peter.
I own a dog. And this I know for sure, once he is gone, I will never get another one. He has given me tremendous happiness. And he sits here right next to me as I type this. He has been right next to me on many mountain passes in varying seasons, on river runs, in my tent in the middle of the weimenuche wilderness on a howling november night, and on many cross country road trips. There are so many memories and so much joy. I just need to close my eyes and these memories make my heart swell with tranquility. But no amount of happiness that he has given me will account for the pain that I will be in after he goes. So, no more for me. I cannot bear the agony of the loss.
I feel your pain.

[joev]

Sorry for your loss OP...

Dogs always amaze me on that unconditional love. Our Lacey, a greyhound, gets up each day from her bed when I get home and comes over to greet me. Greys have that reaching stretch and she holds it the longest time as I scratch under her legs...

Hope all those fond memories of your Cleo bring a smile to your face.

[Dino Suegiù]

....It's really hard..so there it is, my Cleo has died. I cry for him...
It brings such a known sadness to read OP's and other people's comments here; condolences and empathy to all.

By now I have far more dogs in heaven than here on earth, but still remember every one of them, even decades later, and it is reassuring to feel that they are all together now, through all those generations. Even from there, wherever it is, they are unconditionally generous and constant in their support, care, affection, humor, loyalty...true friendship and love.

It takes a long time to get over the loss, that's for sure. I don't think one ever really does, maybe it just evolves into less "loss" and more "continuity" or something like that. Either way, and despite the immediate pain, we are better for having the stronger, deeper, more permanent bond than not, in the end.

[pinoymamba]

My condolences to everyone and OP!

I lost Kilo in November of last year after 14 years... I had to suddenly put him down (5 seizures in one night). Vet said it was most likely a brain tumor. Then I lost my mother a few weeks later.... I had a very rough winter.

Hang in there!

https://live.staticflickr.com/1790/42440870444_377ec260f3_z_d.jpg

[bitpuddle]

It is just so difficult. I lost two last year.

I hope you are finding some peace.

[Hilltopperny]

Sorry for you and your families loss Peter. Dogs are family and they enrich our lives, but unfortunately they don't live forever.

Losing a dog is certainly tough on those of us who bring them into our lives. Such selfless animals. I know I'll be having an extremely hard time when ours passes. She is one of the best companions a person can ask for.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190521/d76097283b678c302477d605f0cb7359.jpg

Sent from my moto g(6) play using Tapatalk

[DonH]

Sorry to hear of the sad news. Hopefully the fond memories you have will make the days a bit easier.

[oldpotatoe]

Thanks all, very sweet of you all.

[LJohnny]

Condolences Peter. Having gone through this as well, it is tough. But relish the good memories!
Cheers to Cleo

[pdmtong]

Condolences Peter. RIP Cleo

Never had dogs growing up but been there twice in my married life. It was unexpected when the time came but the decision was obvious the action was quick and I'm grateful that was the case.

We've had large dogs, so their absence left a gaping hole in our small house on top of the emotional hole.

Before having a dog, I used to hear about these "pets are family" feelings and not get it. Now I do.

They are both in cedar boxes at home.

[Tony]

It is never easy to know what to say to someone who has lost a friend/family member. Sorry for your loss Peter. Cleo was lucky to have chosen you as his family.

[Ken Robb]

Condolences Peter. RIP Cleo

Never had dogs growing up but been there twice in my married life. It was unexpected when the time came but the decision was obvious the action was quick and I'm grateful that was the case.

We've had large dogs, so their absence left a gaping hole in our small house on top of the emotional hole.

Before having a dog, I used to hear about these "pets are family" feelings and not get it. Now I do.

They are both in cedar boxes at home.

Our bichons Ludwig and Max are also in cedar boxes in the music room. We'll never forget them but would never want to be without having a dog or two in our lives even for a week. Sometimes Leslie or I will call Annie "Max" or Eric "Ludi" because they remind us of our dogs from the past.

[wooly]

Been there. I’m with you on the pain. I didn’t realize how much I would miss Bogey when he passed. It’ll get better but it takes a while.

[Tony]

Our bichons Ludwig and Max are also in cedar boxes in the music room. We'll never forget them but would never want to be without having a dog or two in our lives even for a week. Sometimes Leslie or I will call Annie "Max" or Eric "Ludi" because they remind us of our dogs from the past.

I carved out from a large redwood tree a 2' H x 3' L Airedale. We have the collars from both our boys (Airedales) on this carving that stands in our living room.

[Duende]

It’s amazing the inter species bond and friendship that can be developed with these little creatures. So sorry for you loss. My cat is getting on in the years and on chemo for some cancer maintenance... everyday I have with him these days is something to be cherished.

[Black Dog]

They are family. I have lost a few and it is tough. They are a part of who we are. Hang in there. :(

[Climb01742]

I hope it helps you know you're not alone. I lost a dog recently. He was almost 14. The place a dog can make in our hearts is almost beyond words. That's why tears are the truest expression of the loss. Take care, Pete.

[gdw]

I'm sorry to read about your loss. It's never easy parting with a pet but you made the right call. I'm sure Cleo had a great life with you and your family in Boulder.

[ultraman6970]

That sucks OP.. :(

I lost mine like a year ago, his brother is still with us but countdown started already a month ago...

[Chris]

Sorry buddy. Tough loss.

[redir]

Yah it's rough. I was always a dog person till my wife one day wanted to adopt two cats that a friend of ours who just so happened to be found by a mama cat had. I thought to myself, well we do have mice in the old farm house so maybe they will be useful tools! They were useful tools but I could not believe how devastated I was when our little Walnut got sick at age 8 and passed away.

It is their pure innocence that gets ya. It's saying good bye to pure childhood innocence when they go.

[R3awak3n]

Sorry to hear OP. I lost my best friend Gus a few years ago and was very hard. He was a good dog. I now have a new friend, he is awesome but I will always remember Mr. Gus.

Dogs are the best.

[clyde the point]

Dogs or any pet really adds so much to our lives. Our pups are great companions and always happy when someone comes home. I hope you choose to follow that path again, it is so rewarding.

[onekgguy]

I'm very sorry for your loss, Pete. It hurts. I had to have my companion of nearly 16 years put down two weeks ago. Losing them is such a dreadful part of bringing these little ones into our lives. We live with the understanding that we'll someday have to feel this pain (https://onekgguy.blogspot.com/2019/05/goodbye-my-little-buddy.html) and there's no preparing for it. Still, it's worth every second of having them in our lives.

Kevin g

[TheseGoTo11]

Peace to you and yours, mate.

[Irishgirl]

Old Potato,

What an amazing feeling to be connected with your friend. Definitely always a tuff place to be when you physically miss the one you love!!

xoxo
Irishgirl


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[Veloo]

There is a story told by the American Indians that the Great Spirit decided to divide the worlds of animal and man so he gathered all the living beings on a great plain and drew a line in the dirt.
On one side of the line stood man — on the other side stood all of the animals.
And that line began to open up into a great crevasse – and at the last moment before it became unreachable, dog leapt over and stood by man.
(Author Unknown)

https://amiracarluccio.com/2017/02/28/american-native-legends-about-dogs-dog-chose-man/

[metalheart]

I'm so sad to hear about Cleo passing. A lost friend and companion is a hole that can never be filled. I'm sure you gave her a good life and that is about the most we can give our companions. I know you will not stop thinking about Cleo and Cleo will always be in your memories. Godspeed to Celo and healing wishes for you and those who loved Cleo....

[mcteague]

There is a story told by the American Indians that the Great Spirit decided to divide the worlds of animal and man so he gathered all the living beings on a great plain and drew a line in the dirt.
On one side of the line stood man — on the other side stood all of the animals.
And that line began to open up into a great crevasse – and at the last moment before it became unreachable, dog leapt over and stood by man.
(Author Unknown)

https://amiracarluccio.com/2017/02/28/american-native-legends-about-dogs-dog-chose-man/

Sometimes I wonder if dogs made the right choice but I'm glad they ended up with us.

Tim

[OtayBW]

There is a story told by the American Indians that the Great Spirit decided to divide the worlds of animal and man so he gathered all the living beings on a great plain and drew a line in the dirt.
On one side of the line stood man — on the other side stood all of the animals.
And that line began to open up into a great crevasse – and at the last moment before it became unreachable, dog leapt over and stood by man.
(Author Unknown)

https://amiracarluccio.com/2017/02/28/american-native-legends-about-dogs-dog-chose-man/
Awesome story!

[oldpotatoe]

Kinda bringing this to a conclusion..many, many thanks for the nice comments, well wishes, PMs and emails..MUCH appreciated.
Got Cleo's ashes yesterday, along with a paw print and his dates..placed him next to his brother, on the mantle..will get an appropriate container for him reflecting...him..
Back home with his brother Boris...

Thank you all.