Long story...

I used to drive sled dogs, and I am watching one of my old lead dogs for a friend that is
taking his mom to AZ for a couple of weeks.

I retired this dog many years ago and my friend took her in.

She is a granddaughter to my first lead dog and has a special place in my heart.

She is 16 years old and in poor health.

My friend told me that if she was gone when he got back that he would understand.

My buddy has a hard time with death and coming to the conclusion that the dog may have to be
put down.

I am thinking that "Shade" might be gone when he comes home.

I have dealt with this situation many times, and I think even though he took care
of my girl for me, I need to finish it for him.

He hinted to me when he left, that, Goodmedicine should take care ofe his own.

Never something I like doing

GM

Your friend knows it's time, but didn't have what it takes to do it.

Don't let the dog suffer because of human weakness.

Not easy for you, but you know it's right.

Its never easy....


If shes in pain and poor health, not leading a good existence, then put her down.  Be a good friend

What condition is the dog in now?  What is ailing her?

Never a situation that I would relish. If you dont have the gut to put barrel to heartbeat, and you feel that it's imenent, the next humane thing to do is be there as she breathes her last breath. Don't think a good dog would'nt do the same for you.

Sorry for the situation that you're inTruely, our best friend.

if the dog can still feed itself and walk around, I would let it live

Quoted: What condition is the dog in now?  What is ailing her?

Blind, deaf, skeletal problems, not a good quality of life.

My buddy thinks that he needs to, for respect to me ,that  he has to prolong
the dogs life because he is taking care of her in her retirement years.

GM

I have found Prednesone (sp?) to be of great help in making the last years of a working dog comfortable.  Makes the aches and pains go away without doping them up.

My old dog has been on it for a year now, and he is very comfortable.  Before, he could hardly get up and walk across the room (arthritis), he now drags us along on the leash while on walks.

Ill say a prayer for the pup.

I truely hope all dogs go to heavan.

It sucks, but you should put her down.

 It's time.  Maybe a trip to a vet would be easier, I don't know. Good Luck.

Quoted: Quoted: What condition is the dog in now?  What is ailing her? Blind, deaf, skeletal problems, not a good quality of life. My buddy thinks that he needs to, for respect to me ,that  he has to prolong the dogs life because he is taking care of her in her retirement years. GM

That is a tough call.  You are there and are a dog person,  It is your call.

My first hunting dog was in that shape blind, deaf, and slow moving (arthritis, but not painful) and I made a pact with myself that when the time came, I would put him down.  His kidneys started to fail, and I knew it was time.  It was very difficult to uphold my end of the deal.

Do what you think is right.

I really know what needs to be done.

But damn, I thought I was done with this.

One more time.

Dan, I've got you covered buddy.

Thanks for watching out for my girl.

GM