Old Dog Syndrome

It is very difficult when you have to face the realization that your pet has grown old without you. It feels like just last year that we were going outside with a puppy for potty training in the middle of the night, but that was actually over 12 years ago. Today I look into the eyes of my beloved Golden Retriever and I hope he is still as happy inside as he has always been his whole life. I know people get a little depressed when they get old and can't get around as well anymore, but I don't know if dogs feel the same way. "Bo" doesn't chase any Frisbees in the park anymore, only in his dreams. The old dog legs just can't keep up as well, but we continue to try and keep him happy with his assorted stuffed chew toys and our constant attention. We took him to the vet and got him an old dog check up, only to find out he is healthier than most dogs half his age. That was great news to us and it gave us the encouragement we needed to help him keep going. Some days are tougher than others, but we don't mind giving the extra support when the joints are stiff and he can't really get his "sea legs". After all, he has spent his entire life supporting us with his unconditional love and his special way of filling our lives with happiness. He has taught us patience and kindness and how to be better people. I know how much he loves me, I just hope I can really be the person he thinks I am so as to give him back a few more good years.

Comments

[Chris]

Beautifully said! I don't think we can ever really give them as much as they give us. And they do get old long before we're ready for it. I have mixed feelings with their every birthday, because it's a year closer to the inevitable. It seems just a a year or so ago I had to say goodbye to my 15 year old cocker Ginger, but it's been 10 years, and now Abby just had her 10th birthday.
Thank you too for the kind words about our boy Fritzy's passing on Saturday. It blind-sided me, and your thoughtfulness is much appreciated during our sad time.

[Annie]

Chris-Thank you for stopping by and visiting my site. I know a lot of readers are going to relate to this post. You are very welcome for the words of comfort, believe me when I say I could feel your pain.I lost a 10 year old chocolate lab named Abbey to a sudden illness. I just wasn't ready, but like you said, we never are!