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[DapperButch]

Originally Posted by AtLastHome

A good friend of mine (Harry) has a 13 year old boxer (George) and he is going through what we all do when we need to make that quality of life versus our not wanting to let go decision. I love this dog, too and have known him for several years. He was my boxer’s best pal and Harry used to bring George over to visit my Valentino when he was too sick last year to go to the dog park anymore. They would just hang out quietly together on my front lawn like two old men playing chess and reminiscing. It was so kind of Harry to do this.

George has severe arthritis and is having stroke events as well as is incontinent. He is still eating, but really can’t stand for long. Harry was talking to me yesterday about calling his vet and asking him if it was time.He is struggling internally so much it just breaks my heart.

Harry has taken incredible care of George since his wife died 8 years ago. George was actually her dog. I know the loss of George is very much connected to the loss of his wife. This guy has made George a hand made cape and a bed in which George can slip into it and the covers gently cover him by just getting in the bed! Harry was an inventor (he is about 75 years old). He also made George special goggles to protect his eyes from getting poked as he aged and couldn’t see well. Harry adores this dog.

I can see that Harry is exhausted as taking care of George has been a 24/7 job for the last 5-6 weeks since he has had the stroke events and gets confused. Harry has to get up and bring George out several times at night.

I realized yesterday that the real problem is that George needs to tell Harry in some way that it is OK for him to let go. But even with all of what is going on with him, he still picked up a tennis ball in his mouth and gave it a very slight nudge toward me yesterday. I guess he just isn’t ready to give Harry the OK, yet. Still has a couple of tosses in him. But, I could tell harry was trying to make the decision and just agonizing.

I feel awful concerning both of them. I’m worried about Harry and his getting rest and taking care of himself but as long as George does anything as himself (or, old self), I don’t think Harry can let go of him.

I know Harry wants George to just die at home, peacefully. I remember wanting that for Valentino too. I guess I should just let them work it out. This is so damn hard! Both of them matter to me.

Wow, AtLast, this is so sad.

Harry may need to let George know that it is ok for him to go. I think that dogs, just like humans, hang on because they believe that their loved ones want them to.

I am not trying to be negative about your friend as I know he is suffering, but maybe the kindest thing he can do for George is to tell him that he can let go/take him to the vet and "let go"...(especially if George is suffering in any way).


Your mileage may vary,
Dapper.