Sad night - We had to put our dog to sleep.

[Cigarin-Martin]

My sympathy to you and your family, at least her pain wasn't long, she had a long and happy life im sure.

[ChasDen]

Sorry to hear about your loss, pets are truly members of the family and the passing of any family member is hard. Congratulations on your gift of 16 years. Pound pets all over the country are in need of great families like yours and thank you for being you.

Chuck

[SmokeyJoe]

Thank you, my friends. Your words of sympathy and your genuine concern for my family is deeply appreciated. God bless you all!

[SmokeyJoe]

This was sent to me by a friend... thought it was worth sharing.

A Dog's Purpose (from a 6-year-old)

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish
Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their
little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping
for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we
couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia
procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good
for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane
might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family
surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time,
that I wondered if he understood what was going on.
Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty
or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's death, wondering
aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, 'I know why.'

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me.
I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.

He said, 'People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -
like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?' The six-year-old
continued, 'Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to
stay as long.'

Live simply.
Love generously..
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure
ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!

[Old Sailor]

Sorry to hear about your loss.

[icehog3]

Inspirational story about the young boy, Joe, I'm glad you shared it here.

[dannyboy]

Sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

[RevSmoke]

SJ,

My friend, you are in my prayers.

Faithful pets are a gift of God for us to love.

Will keep you and family in my prayers at this time in your lives.

Todd

[SHOE]

I'm really sad to hear this, Joe. We've had our rescue dogs for only 6 months and I know how much we care about them so I can only imagine 16 years. My thoughts are with you, but you know, you should be proud. Domino had a very happy life all because of you guys. Take care.

[lenguamor]

Joe, I'm so sorry. I know how hard it can be to lose a furry loved one.

When you're ready, try if you can to honor her memory by adopting another sweet pooch and giving him or her a great life, like you gave Domino.

[cenookie]

Sorry to hear of your family's loss! A good dog is like a rare diamond, you don't find them often. I know it was hard to make that decision but a friend should not suffer. My prayers go out to you and your family.

[WarMace]

My condolences. I recently had to put my 10 year old Mastiff to sleep a few months after our 13 year old Burmese Mountain/Lab mix passed away. I understand the emptiness that they leave behind. Knowing they led full, happy lives is helpful. Good luck.

[havana_lover]

Joe, sorry to hear the news.. Pets are like our kids for most of us, I have had many pets and they all have a special place in my heart. Just like your girl has in yours..

I will dedicate my smoke to your girl..