She was a beautiful golden retriever. Only 10 years old, short in my count of retriever years She was my daily companion who stuck to me like we were joined at the hip. She grew sick rapidly, first limping, the dragging her hind legs then losing her mobility except for her determined efforts to get outside. It was unthinkable for her to mess the house and she would manage to get out the door do her business and then lie on the ground having expended all her energy. This was awful to see. All along I think she was having pain that I didn't fully recognize. Once I figured this out I began a pain management program for her with my vet. I stayed up nights when she was panting or in the least bit of pain. Holding her made her less anxious. I couldn't bear see her in pain and unsettled. It took me 3 days to come to grips with needing to put her to sleep. I couldn't do it any earlier, I thought if I would take good care of her she would get better.
She didn't get better, she was either sleeping because of the pain meds or awake and anxious. No way to live. She died on November 11th peacefully under the anesthetic given by the vet. My boys (18 yrs old twins) dug her a fitting grave in our large yard, one of them sobbing with me over her. She rests near 2 of our precious dogs who were losses a few years ago. We have many years with her to be thankful for and will never forget her, our girl. Thanks for reading about my Clare.

My Clare--

I'm so very sorry to hear of your dear Clare's passing. It's so hard to see them declining; I hate the helpless feeling that comes along with that. You did so much for your dog, and I'm sure Clare knew/knows of the love you have had for her for those 10 wonderful years.

Come back when you want and write again. People are very compassionate and caring here.

God bless you and your family.

hope2heal

I am deeply sorry for the loss of your sweet girl Clare. How lucky you were to have her in your lives. And she too was lucky, to have such a loving family to care for her. I understand that you tried to help Clare in every way possible. I know the 10 years you shared with her flew by. We always want more time with them, as it is never enough. But unfortunately, they are only allowed to bless us with their presence for so long. And all too often we have to assist them on their journey. Tears come to my eyes now, as I recall saying goodbye to my lab Lizzy. A year has passed and the pain has eased. But, just like your Clare, they will remain in our hearts forever.

May you be comforted my recalling the happy memories you shared with Claire. And soon the pain in your heart will ease, knowing Clare is at peace.

Clare--So sorry for your loss---I know just how you are feeling--I don't think we are ever ready to let them go

Im so very sorry for your loss. I lost my little 9 year old Choc. Lab Brandie. That was 4 months ago and this is the first time I have been able to revisit this sight. It has to be the hardest part of loving a pet and with my wife and I, they are like our kids. If you dont know this already, time will heal the heart and the all good memories will replace the final memories of her life when she was sick. I hope you find peace and my heart goes out to you and your family. Just remember she doesnt hurt anymore and would love you for the unselfish decision you had to make.

Hi, myclare, please permit me to offer you my sincerest sympathies in the loss of your beloved Clare. Losing a beloved companion is never easy regardless of the cir%%stances or how long we have been blessed with the privilege of their company. Euthanasia is never an easy decision to make but it is the last gift of love we can give to our companions -- at great sacrifice to us - - so that they may go home to the angels with the dignity still intact. Your precious Clare is now healed and playing with the angels until it is your appropriate time to join her in eternal joy. What a gift of love your sons did for you and for Clare by providing her a special resting place. You did not mention the illness that took her from you, but it is very obvious that you provided her the best nursing and medical care possible to help stabilize and improve her quailty of life. Thank you so much for sharing with us about Clare, and I am so sorry that your life with her was so brief. A part of you must be feeling cheated and robbed knowing that you would have had many more years with her had it not been for the illness that took over her body. Please know you are among friends here who understand the many grief emotions you and your sons will be feelings for awhile. We are here for you for as long and as often as you need us. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, myclare, and please let us know how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Myclara

What a great gift you have given. It is so very hard for us to make that decision. Is it best for them or me? No more pain and suffering and a peaceful transition to a great place. What a great GIFT.

We are here if you wanna talk, and we really like to hear stories and see pictures when you are ready.

Many hugs to you, your family, and your newest angel!!!!!!!!!

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. It is one the hardest things in the world to do. I lost my Arthur in June. It was the first time I ever had to put a pet down. But like you, it's knowing how much pain they are in and all we want for them is no more pain. For some, it is our only choice. And we have to will ourselves to believe it is the greatest gift of love we can give them. For me it is the guilt of it. I know I did the right thing on one hand and the other I don't think I'll ever get over the guilt of it all. How do you feel both? Your beloved Clare is free of pain, and enjoying a new spirit a new world. You were so lucky to have had her in your life. And she was so lucky to have a loving family who care for her so much. Many hugs...Ann

I am so sorry about Clare. I am glad you had the years you did..we all know it is never long enough.

I understand when you talk about her wanting to go outside to do her business. My last dog, Lady, was between 10 and 12 when something went wrong with her spinal cord but no matter what...she would try to go and do her business where she had been trained as a puppy.

We always know it is the right decision but that never ever makes it easier. We have to always remember why the decision was made..because we know it is never made lightly and a reminder of why can help ease the pain of loss by thoughts they are whole again and not suffering in any way. I read once where someone said Death is a only a tragedy for those left behind. I agree it is a tragedy.

And my favorite thought by a Mom here is: The pain of losing her will never ever be greater than the joy of knowing her.

I remember that one a lot. It helps me remember to think of the happy, healthy times...for those can never be taken away. Each one of these babies we have had in our lives will leave their very own individual mark....one that can never be equaled or duplicated. But each one is very very precious in its own way.

Hugs to you and your family...and to your very special new Angel...Clare.

Judy

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My husband and I had to make that decision last Thursday for our beloved cat Casey. It is a very difficult decision, but one that is made from pure love. My Casey started gasping for air (lung cancer) and I am sure he just didn't know what was happening. We just had to release him, as you had to. We cannot let them suffer. Casey was 12 and even though people keep telling me he had a long life, I too feel cheated out of years. I believe God just called him home early and he is now united in heaven with my wonderful dog Tawney.

My thoughts and prayers and with you.

[color="#4169E1"][/color][font="Century Gothic"][/font]"Do Not Mourn My Passing"
Do not mourn my passing for if you could only see
By slipping all my earthly bonds, I'm young again and free.
By day I run the Heavenly fields, my body healthy and strong
At night I sleep at Angels' Feet, lulled by Celestial Song.
So do not mourn my passing, just close your eyes - you'll see
I'm once again that frisky pup, just as you remember me.
(Author Unknown)
My Clare,

I am so sorry for your loss. It seems that no matter how hard we try to be strong it is always the loss of one of our furkids that bring us to our knees. Just know that over time the pain will get better and she will always be alive and healthy in your heart.

Mark,
Missing Fleetwood

To all of you dear people,
I am so grateful for your thoughtful support even though you make me cry with your words. I am greatly comforted with you sharing each of your stories and offering your inspiration and blessings. I recognize this loss is great and the sorrow is slow to go. My loving memories of her are real and will stay with us forever.
All my thanks,
MyClare AKA Margee