Zeus - how do I say goodbye!

[momto3k9s]

Although I haven't been on here in a long time....I'm in desperate need of help and didn't know where to turn. I needed people that would understand me....I thought of my old friends on this GSD board.

Some of you may remember Zeus had to have surgery about a year and a half ago because he had testicular cancer. When I adopted him, full grown, everyone thought he was neutered. There was nothing "there". Fast forward 10 years...his testicular never decended and they were the size of grapefruits in his abdomen and after emergency surgery we found out it was cancerous. But they said the surgery went well and for the last year and a half he has been doing great.

About a week and a half ago he stopped eating, drinks sooo much water, cries, ...plain and simple - you know when something isn't right even before it gets too bad. We took him to the vet this past Monday and something was wrong with his eye. So the vet referred us to the eye specialist. His appt. was for tomorrow morning. But today he started to throw up blood. Chunks of blood.

His whole body is full of cancer. The x-rays were completely dark. Today he went down hill completely. He can hardly breath, can't stand for more than a couple of minutes, ....I'm watching him die infront of me. I have to let go but can't. I know I can't be selfish though.

The dr. gave us some steriod pills and said that might help with him wanting to eat. I made him chicken and rice tonight and he wouldn't touch even a piece.

He was with me for over 12 years. He is my eyes and ears. He is my protector. He is my other half. I don't know how to live without him. He protects my kids and is the most loving, patient dog I have ever known. How do I let him go.......

[JenM66]

Oh Linda {{{hugs}}} I replied to your PM. Write to me....

[GSD MOM]

I am so sorry. I am crying so hard right now. I feel so bad for you. I know that the word "dog" or "friend" doesn't even come close to the bond you share with him. I wish I knew the words to ease your pain. Just know that one day he will be pain free. Your in my thoughts and prayers.

[HeidiW]

I am so sorry, god bless you both, it sounds to me you need to help him over the bridge and hold him close when he goes. I had to help my dog and the other I did not and should have. This is so painful and sad but sometimes it is best for the dog.

[Cassidy's Mom]

I am SO sorry Linda. It's a brutal decision to have to make, but you have to make it for him. It's not fair to let him suffer and he can't make the decision himself. We will always miss Dena and never would have chosen to have to say goodbye to her at the young age of 4, but there was nothing we could do to save her so we had no choice.

You WILL know when he's ready, and unfortunately, it sounds like that time might be now. If his joy in life is gone, then you already know what you have to do.

[Rusty_212]

I am so very sorry. I will say a prayer for you and Zeus. It is so hard and tears you up, but it sounds as if he is having a hard time, he needs peace. It's so sad, i hope you find the strength.

[momto3k9s]

Thank you everyone! I know what I have to do. Maybe I'm in part denial. Thinking the meds the dr. gave will help a little bit. ..... I know there is nothing to do for a body full of cancer. Nothing will help him but to send him to The Bridge. This is a horrible decision. Thank you for your support. {{{hugs}}}

[chevysmom]

Oh Linda, I am so very sorry to hear this....many (((((hugs)))))

[bianca]

Dear Linda, I am so very sorry that you are in this horrible position. My thoughts are with you.

[AvaLaRue]

I'm so sorry Linda. My thoughts and prayers are with you.