Aa
Broken Hearted - Wilson is gone
Not a question, all answers are already in... more a final report here on the little Westie that brought me to this commmunity.
We lost the little rescue Westie I have posed about many time here as we fought to conquer his allergies and loss of hair and skin itch... and Yeast infections in his ears and skin.
All in the past 24 hours he went from a slight decrease in his appetite yesterday to a poop on the floor over night and a wet bed and self this morning. When I picked him up from his bed he cried out softly ... this developed over the day to the point that he was clearly in bad pain and we took him on an urgent basis to the vet... there is a tread today by me about using a medical thermometer to measure a dog's temperature. I needed as I discussed his (Wilson's) problems with a person at the vet's office. We took him in at about 1 PM and following Xrays and Blood tests the vet said he looked like he may have tumor and referred us to a local animal hospital. We took Wilson there about about 5:30 PM and the doctor there using a ultrasound scan and a needle sample of Wilson's lower abdomen - he found a ruptured intestine/tumor and said immediate surgery was needed and that he estimated about a 95% chance of cancer that could not all be removed with surgery. His prognosis was a couple of months (no sure with much quality of life) and if the expected cancer was present chemo might extend the life by a few more months. We decided to end his life... and we are very, very sad that this happened.
The rescue was estimated to be about 10 years old, thus we expected to have him for another 4 or 5 years, but that is not to happen.
I again fully feel the pain of some many I have read here about losing their loved dog.
We lost the little rescue Westie I have posed about many time here as we fought to conquer his allergies and loss of hair and skin itch... and Yeast infections in his ears and skin.
All in the past 24 hours he went from a slight decrease in his appetite yesterday to a poop on the floor over night and a wet bed and self this morning. When I picked him up from his bed he cried out softly ... this developed over the day to the point that he was clearly in bad pain and we took him on an urgent basis to the vet... there is a tread today by me about using a medical thermometer to measure a dog's temperature. I needed as I discussed his (Wilson's) problems with a person at the vet's office. We took him in at about 1 PM and following Xrays and Blood tests the vet said he looked like he may have tumor and referred us to a local animal hospital. We took Wilson there about about 5:30 PM and the doctor there using a ultrasound scan and a needle sample of Wilson's lower abdomen - he found a ruptured intestine/tumor and said immediate surgery was needed and that he estimated about a 95% chance of cancer that could not all be removed with surgery. His prognosis was a couple of months (no sure with much quality of life) and if the expected cancer was present chemo might extend the life by a few more months. We decided to end his life... and we are very, very sad that this happened.
The rescue was estimated to be about 10 years old, thus we expected to have him for another 4 or 5 years, but that is not to happen.
I again fully feel the pain of some many I have read here about losing their loved dog.
Hi Jerry. Depression is very real it can be a the silent killer. I too have depression in the family genes (my mother suffered from it and ultimately took her own life because of it when I was in my 20s). It is certainly not a weak mind. It is an illness. But because it is a genetic illness, there is no "cure" as such. It is woven into the personality. We have to devise learning tactics to deal with severe depressive episodes, and that's where counselling and psychotherapy comes in - as well as some anti-depressants, when necessary.
I do think dealing with the emotional turmoil of depression is harder for men, because many have a stereotyp[ical image of themselves as tough guys and many are also poor at talking about their feelings. That said, I think things are slowly improving and men are generally getting more in touch with their emotional side. And that's a very good thing.
Jerry, some of us understand how depression can take over our lives - and more so when we have lost our very best friend. I hope you soon start to feel the benefit of the Xanex (it can take some time to "kick in") and, in the meantime, Im pleased you feel able to "open up" here with friends that care about you.
Take care. Tony
I do think dealing with the emotional turmoil of depression is harder for men, because many have a stereotyp[ical image of themselves as tough guys and many are also poor at talking about their feelings. That said, I think things are slowly improving and men are generally getting more in touch with their emotional side. And that's a very good thing.
Jerry, some of us understand how depression can take over our lives - and more so when we have lost our very best friend. I hope you soon start to feel the benefit of the Xanex (it can take some time to "kick in") and, in the meantime, Im pleased you feel able to "open up" here with friends that care about you.
Take care. Tony
Thanks for the expert/professional advice. My doctor gave a prescription for only 30 tablets at 12 hours per dose, thus only 15 days. The prescription can not be refilled without his approval. I'll give it that much of a try unless I get dangerous side-effects.
I used to be a "trough guy" maybe a "cowboy" when it came to the subject of the mind... I didn't believe in depression/anxiety. However over many years of marriage to a woman who developed serious problems in those area and a son who also did... and there are several very sad disasters in my wife's blood line, I have come to believe there is a sickness called mental illness, it isn't just a "weak mind". My wife has ongoing mental health treatment and also warned me about the habit forming risk of Xanax. She also suggested I get an appointment with her counselor.
I'm going forward with the 30 pills and have already taken one with little or no benefit or side effects. I can't say I've ever found pills of much help, but recognize they can be life saving. I take Warfarin because of AFib and am sure over the years it has surely prevented a stroke.
Guess it's not too dangerous to publish personal information, I can't think of how it can be used against me, I'm retired so no worries about an employer+... and my handle makes me somewhat autonomous. Of course my picture album provides anyone who sees me to make the link. I doubt I ever pass anyone on the street who also reads anything here.
As for proof depression doesn't equate to a weak m ind, our son is a Bord Certified Critical Care Anesthesiologist. Our daughter is a fully involved mother of two.
I used to be a "trough guy" maybe a "cowboy" when it came to the subject of the mind... I didn't believe in depression/anxiety. However over many years of marriage to a woman who developed serious problems in those area and a son who also did... and there are several very sad disasters in my wife's blood line, I have come to believe there is a sickness called mental illness, it isn't just a "weak mind". My wife has ongoing mental health treatment and also warned me about the habit forming risk of Xanax. She also suggested I get an appointment with her counselor.
I'm going forward with the 30 pills and have already taken one with little or no benefit or side effects. I can't say I've ever found pills of much help, but recognize they can be life saving. I take Warfarin because of AFib and am sure over the years it has surely prevented a stroke.
Guess it's not too dangerous to publish personal information, I can't think of how it can be used against me, I'm retired so no worries about an employer+... and my handle makes me somewhat autonomous. Of course my picture album provides anyone who sees me to make the link. I doubt I ever pass anyone on the street who also reads anything here.
As for proof depression doesn't equate to a weak m ind, our son is a Bord Certified Critical Care Anesthesiologist. Our daughter is a fully involved mother of two.
Hi Jerry. Hmmm. Well, I have to be a bit cautious here, as I am a retired psychiatric nurse and certainly don't want to preach. Xanax has its uses, but I rather feel it gets overprescribed. It can work wonders, as long as it used very short term (no more than 3 months). However, not everyone responds well to it, so if it hasn't had any real effect after a couple of weeks, I'd get back to your doctor and tell them. Also, what you have right now is Reactive Depression, and the best thing to deal with that is psychotherapy (talking therapy/counselling). Grief does take a toll on things and it needs time to work its way out of your system. Therapy helps us get through the difficult moments, while also dealing properly with the loss. Unfortunately, while drugs like Xanex will blurr the edges of depression, it won't deal with the actual cause of it - so you can find yourself hitting a brick wall of grief when you stop taking it.
I don't know whether any of that helps. If you have questions, feel free to PM me.
Take good care of yourself, Jerry. You are a much-needed force for good on here.
Tony
I don't know whether any of that helps. If you have questions, feel free to PM me.
Take good care of yourself, Jerry. You are a much-needed force for good on here.
Tony
Thanks, the struggle goes on as I we hit the one week date tomorrow.
For the first time in my life I asked my doctor from some help dealing with anxiety/panic/depression. He prescribed Alprazolam (Xanax) . Twice a day, I'll take my first in a few minutes before dinner.. and likely again around mid-night even though that isn't 12 hours. I'll follow the 12 hour regiment by taking the third at about noon time tomorrow.
I'll report how well that works for those reading this thread because they too are dealing with the loss of a dog... or other pet.
For the first time in my life I asked my doctor from some help dealing with anxiety/panic/depression. He prescribed Alprazolam (Xanax) . Twice a day, I'll take my first in a few minutes before dinner.. and likely again around mid-night even though that isn't 12 hours. I'll follow the 12 hour regiment by taking the third at about noon time tomorrow.
I'll report how well that works for those reading this thread because they too are dealing with the loss of a dog... or other pet.
Hi Jerry. Yes, I'm of "an age" too, so those thoughts do strike a chord. The way I've thought about it is ... first, I've made ample financial and care measures through my Will, so any dogs I have when I pass will be well looked after and cared for and there will be money there for the person that takes them on (I have had discussions with my very best friends, and there are two that will step in if and when the need arises). Second, it may not be prudent to take on a young pup, but there are so many older dogs in rescue shelters, and every one of them would love a good forever home. As I get older, that's probably what I will do - give a home to a dog doesn't have much chance otherwise.
You are in my thoughts today. Grief takes it's own good time, so just take each day as it comes. Hope it eases soon.
Tony
You are in my thoughts today. Grief takes it's own good time, so just take each day as it comes. Hope it eases soon.
Tony
I fully understand the age concerns. Yes, sometimes we just have to be realistic.
I never gave it much thought, when I was younger. Over the years these conversations came up at various dig club gatherings or just conversations among friends. Being involved in the "show" community for some years. Most of us had a few dogs and some had many dogs. Was not uncommon to hear many had made arrangements in their wills for their animals. When we got involved in Greyhound Rescue, I was asked by two older members if I would take their dogs should something happen to them. With my own life's circumstances being what they were, I had to decline but promised to do what I could. Of course, they had Rescue behind them that would akways taje the dogs, well, a woman I became very close with, and who's two Greyson I watched passed unexpectedly. Of course, her son had enough on his hands and called the head of our rescue who called me. They needed to get the dogs out quickly and I didn't hesitate to go get them and bring them here. Who knew them better then I did and the dogs knew me and my home. Her female, Dawn (who was a bit of a Diva) was so upset with all the commotion, she would not go to anyone. As soon as I got to the house, she came right to me and so did Derby. Broke my heart, but I could not keep them and I already had one here. I did say I would keep them as long as necessary. I had them here for about 3 weeks when I was told a So. Calif group had homes for them. I really cried when I gave them those last hugs but they ended up in good homes until they passed.
My aunt, who's animals were like her kids, always worried about her dogs. I promised her that I would take care of her animals. When she passed, of course, nobody wanted the spoiled, ugly little Terrier mix she had come by so I brought her home and she lived to 16 1/2. I had her longer then my aunt!
My friend and I have promised to watch each other's animals but my daughter would take mine. My point being, everyone should have a plan in place whether it be family, friends or a rescue group. Do not assume some family member is going to take your pet and care for it!
Best to have these conversations now and, if you have a will, include your wishes in it.
Jerry, losing Wilson so recently is hard and you need time. You and your wife might consider fostering. Many rescue groups, SPCA, etc are always in search of foster homes. Just a thought.
Enough of my late night ramblings. :-)
I never gave it much thought, when I was younger. Over the years these conversations came up at various dig club gatherings or just conversations among friends. Being involved in the "show" community for some years. Most of us had a few dogs and some had many dogs. Was not uncommon to hear many had made arrangements in their wills for their animals. When we got involved in Greyhound Rescue, I was asked by two older members if I would take their dogs should something happen to them. With my own life's circumstances being what they were, I had to decline but promised to do what I could. Of course, they had Rescue behind them that would akways taje the dogs, well, a woman I became very close with, and who's two Greyson I watched passed unexpectedly. Of course, her son had enough on his hands and called the head of our rescue who called me. They needed to get the dogs out quickly and I didn't hesitate to go get them and bring them here. Who knew them better then I did and the dogs knew me and my home. Her female, Dawn (who was a bit of a Diva) was so upset with all the commotion, she would not go to anyone. As soon as I got to the house, she came right to me and so did Derby. Broke my heart, but I could not keep them and I already had one here. I did say I would keep them as long as necessary. I had them here for about 3 weeks when I was told a So. Calif group had homes for them. I really cried when I gave them those last hugs but they ended up in good homes until they passed.
My aunt, who's animals were like her kids, always worried about her dogs. I promised her that I would take care of her animals. When she passed, of course, nobody wanted the spoiled, ugly little Terrier mix she had come by so I brought her home and she lived to 16 1/2. I had her longer then my aunt!
My friend and I have promised to watch each other's animals but my daughter would take mine. My point being, everyone should have a plan in place whether it be family, friends or a rescue group. Do not assume some family member is going to take your pet and care for it!
Best to have these conversations now and, if you have a will, include your wishes in it.
Jerry, losing Wilson so recently is hard and you need time. You and your wife might consider fostering. Many rescue groups, SPCA, etc are always in search of foster homes. Just a thought.
Enough of my late night ramblings. :-)
Thanks, I was typing the above to Karla when youR post came in.
Very helpful to be surrendered by friends who know the commitment, bond, and love that can exist between a dog and a human.
My first struggle is getting by the familiar "Wilson" areas and interactions; the place his food table was, the washing machine/work-table, the bed spot in the bedroom, and in the living room... the property and places he'd hang out and watch me working outside...when he wasn't sleeping.
We're older folks, and it was my plan that Wilson would be our last dog, as I surely don't want to take in a puppy that is going to outlive us and end up homeless due to our passing away.. or simply being unable to care for it. If he lived to 14 or 15 that would about wrap up our dog ownership years. We could from there on just have dog friends, which we have always had and have now, in fact there's a picture at my left as I type of two dogs we take care of several times a year.. and that got along wonderfully with Wilson when they were staying with us. I'm sure they'll miss Wilson too on their next visit.
Very helpful to be surrendered by friends who know the commitment, bond, and love that can exist between a dog and a human.
My first struggle is getting by the familiar "Wilson" areas and interactions; the place his food table was, the washing machine/work-table, the bed spot in the bedroom, and in the living room... the property and places he'd hang out and watch me working outside...when he wasn't sleeping.
We're older folks, and it was my plan that Wilson would be our last dog, as I surely don't want to take in a puppy that is going to outlive us and end up homeless due to our passing away.. or simply being unable to care for it. If he lived to 14 or 15 that would about wrap up our dog ownership years. We could from there on just have dog friends, which we have always had and have now, in fact there's a picture at my left as I type of two dogs we take care of several times a year.. and that got along wonderfully with Wilson when they were staying with us. I'm sure they'll miss Wilson too on their next visit.
No, not a chain, a local service set up a few years back by the woman vet we picked for care of Wilson when we adopted him - April 2012. She has a big business now with two other vets, they may be partners... I have no idea.
I related the story in a "loving" sense. The vet knew me on sight by that time and we had some conversation going when it caused her to look at me with some concern: "don't you love him?" I brought up the possible expressions I may have made due to a concern about the health problems we had already experienced with Wilson. The question was a good "reset" for me and that's why I said form my heart: "of course, he and I are real close"... that's exactly how I felt to the question. I have no doubts about the vet's motives or skill. I was just relating to a moment of affection I have in my memory. I used to laugh about it with my wife when ever Wilson did something troublesome, like barking too much: "Don't you love him?" We did. I love to hear him right now telling me he as to go outside before bedtime. He was a vocal little guy.
Pet Smart had been his groomer service at least three times, I was happy with the results there. I didn't buy much else from them.
Thanks for your concern, I never felt the vet was doing anything or suggesting anything that was not needed. This included cleaning Wilson's teeth once a year, I was not able and didn't really try to brush his teeth.
My heart break is about the pain he suffered and the loss of his presence and love... I know he loved us back. He loved his comfortable life with us, we have no way of know how rough his previous years were, but he was found near starvation and with serious yeast infection when taken in by the lady we got him from. She is not a near by neighbor, but we have remain in contact - she is on the Westie Med board I think. Wilson's story is on their web site along with stories of many other Westies that organization has helped with some financial support for the cost of recovery.
I related the story in a "loving" sense. The vet knew me on sight by that time and we had some conversation going when it caused her to look at me with some concern: "don't you love him?" I brought up the possible expressions I may have made due to a concern about the health problems we had already experienced with Wilson. The question was a good "reset" for me and that's why I said form my heart: "of course, he and I are real close"... that's exactly how I felt to the question. I have no doubts about the vet's motives or skill. I was just relating to a moment of affection I have in my memory. I used to laugh about it with my wife when ever Wilson did something troublesome, like barking too much: "Don't you love him?" We did. I love to hear him right now telling me he as to go outside before bedtime. He was a vocal little guy.
Pet Smart had been his groomer service at least three times, I was happy with the results there. I didn't buy much else from them.
Thanks for your concern, I never felt the vet was doing anything or suggesting anything that was not needed. This included cleaning Wilson's teeth once a year, I was not able and didn't really try to brush his teeth.
My heart break is about the pain he suffered and the loss of his presence and love... I know he loved us back. He loved his comfortable life with us, we have no way of know how rough his previous years were, but he was found near starvation and with serious yeast infection when taken in by the lady we got him from. She is not a near by neighbor, but we have remain in contact - she is on the Westie Med board I think. Wilson's story is on their web site along with stories of many other Westies that organization has helped with some financial support for the cost of recovery.
Hi again, Jerry
Goid to see you here.
I think I sent you some information and/or links on Westies some time ago.
Westies can certainly be affected with skin problems. I have read that as high as 66% have sime skin disease. They can also be prone to IBD. Before you speak to your Vet, at least go to the Wes Highland White Terrier Club of America's web site and look up Health problems.
All, or a lot if, Wilson's orobkems could have certainly been genetic. Who knows who bred him and if that was a reputable breeder keeping good records and testing what they could in their breeding animals. There may have been no more that you and the Vets could do besides try to manage symptoms. God knows you tried your very best!!
As for the rupture, if he was not constipated, coukd have been a tumor or a weak area nobody knew about.
Yes, we have all secind guessed ourselves! Please don't second guess yourself. The important thing is Wilson had a good and living home with you and an owner that lived him enough not to let him suffer.
Hugs
Goid to see you here.
I think I sent you some information and/or links on Westies some time ago.
Westies can certainly be affected with skin problems. I have read that as high as 66% have sime skin disease. They can also be prone to IBD. Before you speak to your Vet, at least go to the Wes Highland White Terrier Club of America's web site and look up Health problems.
All, or a lot if, Wilson's orobkems could have certainly been genetic. Who knows who bred him and if that was a reputable breeder keeping good records and testing what they could in their breeding animals. There may have been no more that you and the Vets could do besides try to manage symptoms. God knows you tried your very best!!
As for the rupture, if he was not constipated, coukd have been a tumor or a weak area nobody knew about.
Yes, we have all secind guessed ourselves! Please don't second guess yourself. The important thing is Wilson had a good and living home with you and an owner that lived him enough not to let him suffer.
Hugs
Wait a minute....Are you saying your Vet said, "Don't you Love him?" when you possibly looked concerned about a price??? Is that what you mean?
Was this by chance at any large chain clinic, like a Petsmart? If so, they work on commission.....They have to do everything in their power to get money out of each client to keep their job....It's their inside rules (And criminal IMO). This happens all the time....They are known for this behavior!!! They are notorious for ordering unnecessary testing and misdiagnosing....But it keeps you there & they are able to continue to charge....Their new puppy packages are a ridiculous insult, too!!!!
No matter, if you had any Vet that said (The above) to you, this is not professional behavior & they should be reported.....At the very least, don't ever go back!!!!!
I've been thinking about you Jerry...Glad to see your here.......Karla
Was this by chance at any large chain clinic, like a Petsmart? If so, they work on commission.....They have to do everything in their power to get money out of each client to keep their job....It's their inside rules (And criminal IMO). This happens all the time....They are known for this behavior!!! They are notorious for ordering unnecessary testing and misdiagnosing....But it keeps you there & they are able to continue to charge....Their new puppy packages are a ridiculous insult, too!!!!
No matter, if you had any Vet that said (The above) to you, this is not professional behavior & they should be reported.....At the very least, don't ever go back!!!!!
I've been thinking about you Jerry...Glad to see your here.......Karla
daisysmama
ginger,
all,
Thanks your prayers and words help, I am sure of that, but the anguish goes on and will, it seems for some time. As told the vet a year or more ago during some exam of Wilson and I may have looked concerned about the cost, don't think I said that: "Don't you love him?" and I said something like "yes, we're real close". And indeed we were as I gave him medical treatments every day and watched over him when he was allowed to rang free on our property to take care of his business, or just sun himself on a sunny cool day. At night that included my nearby presence with a bright flash light to be sure nothing (coyote, main concern of mine) came out of the woods to attack him. In the true meaning of the NATO treaty, any attack on Wilson would be met the same as an attack on me.
We got a sympathy card from our vet and her staff with a personal note from each who know Wilson. He was a more-than-average customer/patient.
The vet wrote on the card she had talked with the ER vet and assured me I did the right thing. Nonetheless I have left a message asking her to telephone me Monday (tomorrow) to discuss the causes and actions. When we left the animal hospital the ER vet told us he had discussed Wilson with our vet. Or vet had held Wilson for about 4 hours on IV and medications, including a number of shots in the hope they would help, but she knew from the xrays and blood tests Wilson had likely undergone a mass rupture of his intestine, and the hospital could do an untra sound and determine for sure. That was the case. Wilson's deterioration and pain was market over that period of time - our final action should have been taken hours sooner. My poor little guy had to suffer his way to the end, that shouldn't be required of any of "us".
ginger,
all,
Thanks your prayers and words help, I am sure of that, but the anguish goes on and will, it seems for some time. As told the vet a year or more ago during some exam of Wilson and I may have looked concerned about the cost, don't think I said that: "Don't you love him?" and I said something like "yes, we're real close". And indeed we were as I gave him medical treatments every day and watched over him when he was allowed to rang free on our property to take care of his business, or just sun himself on a sunny cool day. At night that included my nearby presence with a bright flash light to be sure nothing (coyote, main concern of mine) came out of the woods to attack him. In the true meaning of the NATO treaty, any attack on Wilson would be met the same as an attack on me.
We got a sympathy card from our vet and her staff with a personal note from each who know Wilson. He was a more-than-average customer/patient.
The vet wrote on the card she had talked with the ER vet and assured me I did the right thing. Nonetheless I have left a message asking her to telephone me Monday (tomorrow) to discuss the causes and actions. When we left the animal hospital the ER vet told us he had discussed Wilson with our vet. Or vet had held Wilson for about 4 hours on IV and medications, including a number of shots in the hope they would help, but she knew from the xrays and blood tests Wilson had likely undergone a mass rupture of his intestine, and the hospital could do an untra sound and determine for sure. That was the case. Wilson's deterioration and pain was market over that period of time - our final action should have been taken hours sooner. My poor little guy had to suffer his way to the end, that shouldn't be required of any of "us".
COMMUNITY LEADER
We are all inclined to do a lot of 'second guessing' when a loved one passes. I know I did. I spent quite a few weeks investigating Hemangiosarcoma after my Misty passed from it -and wondered if I had done anything wrong -or if her prior surgeries or medications had caused it -or exposure to any chemicals over the years while on walks.....etc
I never said this before, but I emailed vets and specialists for their opinions. Every one of them told me I had done nothing wrong, and the medication she was on to support her kidney function (which was improving tremendously -ironically) -wasn't at fault either.
But we all do this, in one form or another. I think it is a part of coming to terms with our grieving.
My heart goes out to you, as I know how much you must be grieving right now.
I never said this before, but I emailed vets and specialists for their opinions. Every one of them told me I had done nothing wrong, and the medication she was on to support her kidney function (which was improving tremendously -ironically) -wasn't at fault either.
But we all do this, in one form or another. I think it is a part of coming to terms with our grieving.
My heart goes out to you, as I know how much you must be grieving right now.
Hi Jerry, I am sorry for your loss. I know it hurts so bad when our furbabies leave us. My sweet Daisy passed away November 12th after several months of seizures that the Vet felt sure was caused by a brain tumor. I still miss her so badly. I know you did everything possible for your Wilson. God Bless.
daisysmama
daisysmama
Hi Jerry. I totally understand you trying to second-guess things. I think we all do it after a loved member of the family has passed. Truth is, I think you mentioned something that was actually far more important ... "He loved the mix ..." and I think happiness and contentment is at least half the battle. You managed to improve his appetite and did everything within your power to help his allergy issues. Wilson was a lucky dog to have had you in his life, share his experiences and be so loved and cared for.
Tony
Tony
One struggle for an answer is what affect, if any, my changes in Wilson's diet in our struggle to stop allergic reactions could have played in the intestine rupture. As I had posted in another thread(s) I had taken to grinding his kibble (he had a prescription Hill's Z/D with hydrolyzed chicken protein and some 4 Health lamb/rice to reduce potato - did not mix kibbles in one serving) with raw carrots, mostly, and other raw vegetables. He loved the mix and especially if I added canned (cooked) black beans and some of the water. His bowel movement were in line with his improved appetite and, I concluded, his high fiber intake. I want to confirm with the vet on Monday if these changes I made could have had any influence on Wilson's intestine failure. I think and hope not.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Dear Jerry,
I am also very sorry and sad to hear about the loss of your Wilson.
I think you made the correct choice for him, given the circumstances, and his prognosis.
But I know that doesn't make it any easier. They are not just a part of our lives, but a huge chunk of our heart and Soul.
Wilson is free now. You did right for him. Bless you for all the love and care you gave to him.
I am also very sorry and sad to hear about the loss of your Wilson.
I think you made the correct choice for him, given the circumstances, and his prognosis.
But I know that doesn't make it any easier. They are not just a part of our lives, but a huge chunk of our heart and Soul.
Wilson is free now. You did right for him. Bless you for all the love and care you gave to him.
Good to see you here. All our experiences help to educate others in possible difficult decisions that may lie ahead.
In regards to people, I, unfortunately, know first hand about intestinal ruptures. Long story, bad doctors and ER that refused to listen to me. My father suffered an intestinal rupture some years ago. He was in horrible pain from that for at least 6 hours before surgery was done. By that time, it was too late, he also got sepsis and passed the next morning. Had he survived, he would have needed a permanent bag.
Because our animals cannot speak to us, we have to sometimes let the human experience come into play. That is the only reason I am relaying this story. You made the right decision and one I am sure I would have opted fir myself, as difficult as that is.
We are going to miss Wilson too. Hugs
In regards to people, I, unfortunately, know first hand about intestinal ruptures. Long story, bad doctors and ER that refused to listen to me. My father suffered an intestinal rupture some years ago. He was in horrible pain from that for at least 6 hours before surgery was done. By that time, it was too late, he also got sepsis and passed the next morning. Had he survived, he would have needed a permanent bag.
Because our animals cannot speak to us, we have to sometimes let the human experience come into play. That is the only reason I am relaying this story. You made the right decision and one I am sure I would have opted fir myself, as difficult as that is.
We are going to miss Wilson too. Hugs
And all,
Thanks, not any easier today, everywhere I look around the house and property I want to see Wilson, but he's not there. My intrinsic empathy for others I have tried to help goes way up. This includes those who have self-doubt about choosing euthanasia rather than to go forward with extreme medical measures. I keep telling myself he would have suffered more, better that I suffer.
I also understood from past experience before the hospital doctor confirmed the diagnosis of an intestine rupture that it is both painful and deadly, regardless of the presence or not of cancer. The decision was made with a high probability but no biopsy that cancer was also present.
Thanks, not any easier today, everywhere I look around the house and property I want to see Wilson, but he's not there. My intrinsic empathy for others I have tried to help goes way up. This includes those who have self-doubt about choosing euthanasia rather than to go forward with extreme medical measures. I keep telling myself he would have suffered more, better that I suffer.
I also understood from past experience before the hospital doctor confirmed the diagnosis of an intestine rupture that it is both painful and deadly, regardless of the presence or not of cancer. The decision was made with a high probability but no biopsy that cancer was also present.
I'm so sorry to read about Wilson, you must be devastated. I, too, have read all your posts, and replies to questions, and hope you keep answering questions posted. You didn't have Wilson nearly long enough, but he was very lucky to have found you in those few years. I'm sure he thanked you by leaving you with a lot of great memories.
Oh Jerry, I am so very sorry to read about Wilson. This is sad sad news. My heart truly goes out to you. I don't know why, but like others have said, it almost feels like I have journeyed alongside you and Wilson over the last couple of years, following your posts and responding whenever I felt it was appropriate. It's heartbreaking to be told his journey has come to an end.
I say this all too often about dogs that have passed, but it is particularly true on this occasion ... you gave Wilson so much love, care and affection that - despite him having a rough start in life - he sure was lucky to have been rescued by you. I don't really need to say it, but I do hope your heart is eased by knowing you did everything and more to make his life the best life any dog could have.
I do hope you stay with us here on the forum. You always give valuable and much needed support to others and so often seem to have the right words for each "event".
You are in my thoughts.
Run free Wilson.
Tony
I say this all too often about dogs that have passed, but it is particularly true on this occasion ... you gave Wilson so much love, care and affection that - despite him having a rough start in life - he sure was lucky to have been rescued by you. I don't really need to say it, but I do hope your heart is eased by knowing you did everything and more to make his life the best life any dog could have.
I do hope you stay with us here on the forum. You always give valuable and much needed support to others and so often seem to have the right words for each "event".
You are in my thoughts.
Run free Wilson.
Tony
Karla, Margot
Thanks for your helpful words, we too believe Wilson had a good life with us and we are happy we could manage the financial costs as the rewards were his presence and influence in our lives. His good influence will continue in our minds and hearts, more when we the grief has diminished. It is hard not to recall his cries of pain and the anguish on his little face. We stood by him to the end and the vet left us with his body in a private room until we were ready to depart.
Wilson will be cremated and the ashes given to us.
Wilson was a Westie rescue supported by the Westie Med organization and a local Westie lady from whom we adopted him. The WestieMed organization has a web site and try to track the lives of dogs they gave financial support for to prepare the dog for adoption. As discussed, much work was yet to be done, and we tried.
I notified the rescue lady and she may update the WestieMed story on Wilson. I contributed two chapter myself over the first two years Wilson was with us. We would have had him 3 years if he had lived until April 2015.
My love to you both for you great help to people and their dogs, you have given us much useful advice and encouragement.
Thanks for your helpful words, we too believe Wilson had a good life with us and we are happy we could manage the financial costs as the rewards were his presence and influence in our lives. His good influence will continue in our minds and hearts, more when we the grief has diminished. It is hard not to recall his cries of pain and the anguish on his little face. We stood by him to the end and the vet left us with his body in a private room until we were ready to depart.
Wilson will be cremated and the ashes given to us.
Wilson was a Westie rescue supported by the Westie Med organization and a local Westie lady from whom we adopted him. The WestieMed organization has a web site and try to track the lives of dogs they gave financial support for to prepare the dog for adoption. As discussed, much work was yet to be done, and we tried.
I notified the rescue lady and she may update the WestieMed story on Wilson. I contributed two chapter myself over the first two years Wilson was with us. We would have had him 3 years if he had lived until April 2015.
My love to you both for you great help to people and their dogs, you have given us much useful advice and encouragement.
My heart just sank!!! I haven't been on the Forums much lately but had a few minutes to check. I certainly did not expect this. I am in tears also. Those of us who frequent the Forum have followed your postings about Wilson and have read how much you and your wife have lived this guy and gave him the best care anyone could. It sounds like you made the right, but most difficult decision, to let Wilson go peacefully to The Bridge. How lucky he was you came into his life.
My heart just goes out to you.
My heart just goes out to you.
OH NO..... I'm in tears...I feel I've known your Wilson all along and I too, am so sorry & sad!!!!
You've done such a wonderful job trying to figure out all of Wilson's problems...You never quit!! I sure admire you Jerry....All the way to the end, you were looking for ways to help your guy...What a blessing you are, just to know that there are people still out there like you, makes me think the world is maybe not so bad!!!!
I'm heartbroken for you & your wife & little Wilson.....You will be in my prayers ...Honestly, I'm never very good at condolences.....I try to be, but it never seems to come out like I want it to...
Bless you for Adopting this guy and hanging in there through everything.....Although we don't know Wilson's background, his life with you made up for all his past & Wilson knew that.....Thank you for helping him, loving him and always wanting what was best for him.....
I wish you peace & love from me........Karla
You've done such a wonderful job trying to figure out all of Wilson's problems...You never quit!! I sure admire you Jerry....All the way to the end, you were looking for ways to help your guy...What a blessing you are, just to know that there are people still out there like you, makes me think the world is maybe not so bad!!!!
I'm heartbroken for you & your wife & little Wilson.....You will be in my prayers ...Honestly, I'm never very good at condolences.....I try to be, but it never seems to come out like I want it to...
Bless you for Adopting this guy and hanging in there through everything.....Although we don't know Wilson's background, his life with you made up for all his past & Wilson knew that.....Thank you for helping him, loving him and always wanting what was best for him.....
I wish you peace & love from me........Karla
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