His name was Shemp and he was a 15 year old Basset Hound.
Though I could see signs, and his age being an obvious thing....it still felt like a shock to me. He had his best day in a long time this past Tuesday, but there was nothing that could be done. It all just happened early this morning. He aspirated and his lungs clogged with fluid.
This is particularly difficult for me because for most of his life it was just me and him. Also due to circumstances in my life and work I was with him pretty much 24/7 for 15 years and that's no exaggeration. 24/7.
I've been told by people today that 15 years for any dog let alone a Basset Hound whose average age is 8-10 is remarkable and that I should be proud of the life I gave him. I am proud of that and I suppose in time that will give me some comfort. But as of this moment now I'm really struggling with the whole thing.
He was a very special dog to me and I will miss him very much.
I don't usually make posts like this, but I thought this might help me out a bit to talk it through, so thanks for reading.
My sincere condolences.
My two Germans shepherds passed in 2011 ( right in front of me. Went into shock. Was sluggish but didn’t expect that) and my favorite of all time 2013
Had a hard battle with acl tears and that type of nerve damage they get when they are old)
Probably kept her around longer than I should’ve
Got right back on my horse so to speak and got me a wonderful gsd from gsd rescue. Have had her for 6.5 yrs. she probably only has 2-3 left
Yeah it stinks but getting another dog ASAP helped me a lot. Never fill void but they grow on you quick
Sorry for your loss
Cherish his memory, as I know you will, and honestly, you really should be proud that you gave him such a good life. You made a difference for him. So many dogs out there don't get that chance.
God bless, and my sympathies.
As some have already said here, it's the price we pay for having the blessing of such a loyal friend in our lives.
If dogs go to the hereafter (and I'd like to believe they do in some form or another)then we can hope to be with them again someday! I hope the following helps:
Rainbow Bridge Poem
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our pets are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; Her eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flyingover the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress thebeloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your dog, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
~Author Unknown
I lost my 14 year old black lab a couple years ago and not a day goes by where I don't think about him.
I know how rough it can be.
My Airedale, Tiki, was 15 and a half when i had to put him to sleep about 13 mos. ago. I cried like a baby a lot. Sucks.
Hang in there.
No words I can say to help you feel better, just offering my condolences.
I Loved You Best - ( New Window )
There truly are no words that help. Just know your buddy will never leave you.