22 replies to this topic

[Carolinasmom]

I don't recognize many names here since I haven't been active for a long time. After our 2 children came home life has been busy. Carolina was diagnosed with cushings several years ago and her liver numbers have been sky high since then. She had been on liver support meds and doing well. This past summer she started slowing way down. She didn't want to walk very far, unusual for her but I figured it was just because she was getting old, 13 years.

Two weeks ago today I took her to the vet because she was throwing up and for the past couple of weeks had been drinking a LOT of water, even more than her usual which was a lot due to the cushings. The vet kept her for the day to give her some fluids and do some tests. He called that afternoon and said she had diabetes! He recommended Urgent Care for the weekend. I visited her there both Sat. and Sun. and was finally able to get her to eat. I picked her up Monday morning and took her to our vet where she stayed for the day again. I learned how to give insulin shots and she came home that night.

Last Thurs. she started vomiting again so back to the vet we went on Friday. After a blood test, her kidney numbers were really high, (they had been since this started) and the vet said there really wasn't much else to do. I brought her home, loved her and took lots of pictures. She had also quit eating again. I found a vet that does in-home euthanasia and made an appointment for the next day, Sat. It was a rough night. Carolina kept wanting out, (she had pretty much quit drinking water too) and would just wander around so I had to bring her back in.

Saturday morning she spent a lot of time outside, doing unusual things like digging in the garden and climbing into a boxed-in area under one of our pine trees..weird. At one point she sat facing the rising sun, just enjoying it. Poor baby, she just did not feel good at all. It was definitely time. The vet was amazing. I am glad that DH's mom picked the kids up, (ages 6 and 3) and took them to her house because I was a mess. Carolina crossed the Rainbow Bridge around 11:45. I miss my black, furry floor sweeper and walking partner.

Carolina 1/21/98-11/5/11

Attached File(s)

•  boo2.jpg (187.01K)
  Number of downloads: 34

[bradl]

A beautiful picture of a beautiful soul. Bless you for loving her for so many years, for taking care of her in health and sickness, and seeing her off with tenderness.

[pindrop]

There is nothing one can say at a time like this. You have been a wonderful Mom and given her 13 wonderful years. The last act of kindness is in letting them go peacefully - in your arms. My heart grieves for you at this time knowing how difficult it is. Hugs coming your way.

[Carolinasmom]

pindrop, on 11 November 2011 - 08:39 AM, said:

The last act of kindness is in letting them go peacefully - in your arms.

It was the hardest thing I have ever done but the best way for sure. My parents have a litter mate to ours and my mom said when it's their dog's time, she will call this same vet, (my parents were here before the procedure but left when it was time. My dad had just been released from the hosp. following surgery and wanted to see Carolina for the last time so they stopped by.)

[Idaho Cairns]

Beautiful picture of your "Old Soul" Carolina, these old Cairns are so distinctive in their way. You know it is so hard to make the decision about when is the "right" time to act in the dog's behalf. I watched our old girl disintegrate with Cushings and other age related illness a while back and these little dogs just fight so hard to stay in the battle, even when they are obviously losing to forces they can't overcome, they never seem to just give up. I think the clues are what you saw, the restlessness--probably caused by severe pain, the refusal to eat or drink, etc all build up to tell us, "That's enough!" , and then we do the right thing.
It was good that she could go at home, that is the place for a good dog to pass--in a place she knew and loved with people she knew and loved--Carolina, if she could ask, would never want for more than that in the end.
I know your heart is broken and your days are dull with grief, I know you wish you had another month, day, week, or even a minute more with Carolina and I wish I could make it easier for you--but, I cannot. I can and will wish you peace, the pain will dull but never cease, the thoughts of Carolina will be fewer but never gone, but I think you will come to understand that is good thing ultimately--it is the pain that results from sharing a life with a precious pet--it is one of the most dear expenses we pay for loving our dogs and well worth the agony.
I truly believe Carolina is waiting for you --sitting patiently with her beautiful face to the sun, knowing you are on your way to her. She is safe, happy, and healthy now--a good dog, as always.
Take care. Chuck

[TazTalk]

My deepest sympathies - such a difficult, emotional thing to have to do. The in-home vet is a very compassionate approach. Much better for both you and Carolina. Our Gypsy is getting close and we have the # for a vet that will do the same.
You will miss your black, furry floor sweeper terribly I'm sure -- cherish all the wonderful memories from the 13 wonderful years you had with her. I'm sending a big hug your way.
Adrienne

[Rileymom27]

These little guys can leave such imprints on our hearts - - I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Carolina. May you find solace in the wonderful memories you have of her - - - God bless!

[jo_]

"Unable are the loved to die, for love is immortality." ~ Emily Dickinson

I'm so very sorry for your loss. I always find music to be very therapeutic. Have a listen...Johnny Reid wrote this song about the loss of his dog. Very fitting for the loss of any loved one...

[Hawkeye]

I am so sorry for your loss. Carolina was a beautiful girl and gave you many years of pleasure...hang onto those wonderful memories. She will always be with you in your heart. I know how difficult this is for you...God bless.

[Tuesday]

I am very sorry for your loss. Carolina was a beautiful Cairn.

[beccadiane374]

So, so sorry to hear of your loss...your heartache is heard in every word...may time bring you peace and may your memories bring you comfort.

[BetsyNoodle]

I am so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful, beloved Carolina. I know the pain of loss is so intense right now, and seems it will never end. But, as time passes you will be able to remember your sweet girl with more smiles than tears. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Many hugs,
Melissa

[tlwtheq]

Welcome to the forum. Your loss is understood here like nowhere else, I think.
God bless you and your family, and beautiful memories of Carolina.

[Carolinasmom]

Thank you everyone! I just got a call from the vet who put her down that her ashes are being sent to us today. Kind or ironic that they are being sent exactally a week after her passing.

[BetsyNoodle]

In my experience, it is a second blow to the heart when we receive the ashes of our little ones. But, it is also comforting to know they are 'home.' Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers as you miss your sweet girl.