Hello everyone,

My beloved canine companion, my precious Petra, was diagnosed this Wednesday with aggressive cancer
all throughout her abdomen, liver and bladder. It has all been so sudden and we have
decided after much angst, tears and watching her, that it is time to let her go. She has basically stopped
eating over the last week, although she is still alert, wags her tail when I call her and still
likes to go for short walks. I just don't want her to suffer any more than she has to (and I also want her
to leave this earth with dignity and while she still has her strength), just because
I love her so much and would like her to be around more. It would be selfish on my part after all the
love and companionship she has given us for 13 wonderful years. We have decided to let her go at the vet's office
instead of at home (after much thought) and we will also bring along our 14-year Misha so she too can
say her goodbyes. I have made the appointment with the vet for tomorrow early afternoon.

I feel it is right, but that does not stop the tears. I feel so heartbroken and hope that I will stay
strong and not cancel the appointment at the last moment. I know in my heart that she is ready to go, and I have
explained the process to her, and have told her how much we love her and how much we will miss her, and also
thanked her for the honor, love, companionship and happiness she has given us during her time with us.

I know she will stay forever in my and my husband's hearts, and that her little bright soul will be happy to leave this earth for doggy
paradise where she will not feel any more suffering.

Thank you all for reading.

Dear Petra's mom,

I think I speak for everyone here when I say that we are giving you a huge virtual hug and our deepest sympathy for what you are facing with sweet Petra. The shock of getting news like this so suddenly doesn't give you much time to mentally and emotionally prepare, not that any length of time would ever make it easy. She looks so beautiful in her photo. You sound like you have a lot of courage to see this through and I agree that , based upon what you said Petra's condition was, there is really only one humane and loving choice. As a teacher I have the type of personality that wants to "fix" everything. It is painful when I read emails like yours because I know there is nothing I can do to help except to be a good listener for you.
Please keep us posted on how you are doing and when you feel up to it tell us more about Petra.

Take care,
Ken Albin

I am so sorry to hear about Petra. I have been through the cancer problem with so many of my special ones...and know how absolutely heartbreaking it is.

When thinking of making the decision I asked a vet once how to judge the time and he said when there is no quality of life. Sometimes that can mean suffering in pain but it also can mean being so crippled there is no quality. And so, I find what helps is to remember WHY the decision was made.
Even though we know it is the right decision..for them...that doesn't make it any easier to live with.

How wonderful you were together for 13 years...what a blessing that time is. I loved her picture you posted and can see what a sweetheart she is.

By stopping eating...that was a signal I got one time and it was because of cancer and I had to also make the decision. That is one battle that is just never won. If we are lucky we can kind of stop the progression temporarily....but that is one disease that can't be beaten back.

Hugs to you and your family and a special hug and kiss to Petra.

Come back and write here in your topic anytime and let us know how you are doing. Sometimes writing your thoughts and feelings is of some help.

We share your pain...it is a road we all know too well...and we are always here to listen and to help if we can.

Judy

I am so sorry to hear of Petra. How brave you are. This is the hardest thing to do, yet a loving gift you can give at the same time. How special you are able to say your goodbyes(until you meet again someday)..Petra will always be with you...My thoughts and prayers are with you..Many hugs..Ann

i cannot add anything than offer my deepest sympathy
that photo of your beautiful Petra touched my heart
feeling with you
Eva

Petra's Mom,
I can only repeat what the others before me have said. You are a very brave person!!!
It is really a great gift to give her. To help her make the transition to a wonderful new life with no pain or suffering. Not thinking of yourself but of her needs and wants.
You have had many years to make many many memories.
Please come back often!!!!


Hugs and Prayers to you, your family, and Petra!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am very sorry to hear about your loss. We just lost our Casey to cancer on Nov 13th. It is something the one can not prepare for. You made your decision out of love for Petra, we had to do the same for Casey. We can not let them suffer. We are still heartbroken today, but know we made the right decision.

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

So sorry to hear about your friend and companion, it is very heartbreaking for our loyal friends to let go. Even if they're already gone it is still hard to accept the fact they are already gone to Pet Heaven. Just think that doing it this way will end their pain and suffering.

Take care and hugs to you and your family.

I would like to offer my deepest sympathy in the loss of your precious Petra. She was a beautiful girl, and so fortunate to have found a loving home. I am sorry that she got cancer, I can imagine how devastating the news was. I lost my lab Lizzy (9) to cancer last year. It was also far advanced like your Petra. You were so lucky to have had Petra for 13 yrs. I know the time goes by so fast, and it's never enough time for us. But, remember you have so many memories to look back upon and cherish. The happy memories will pull you through the pain. I know you are grieving now and missing dear Petra. But know that she is now at peace, and this will ease the pain in your heart. Only time will heal your broken heart. And given time your tears will ease, and be replaced by smiles. We are here for you whenever you need us.