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-   -   How did your dog settle in Spain? (https://britishexpats.com/forum/spain-75/how-did-your-dog-settle-spain-435523/)

Pam Sarky Apr 16th 2007 5:20 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by IntuitiveNipple (Post 4650530)
Well, Pepe lasted through the weekend although by last night he was too weak to get up.

I had the vet out first thing this morning and he was given an overdose of anaesthetic, took about 5 seconds. He was laid on the grass in the sun with the birds tweeting, was emotionally so much better than taking him into a sterile surgery, and then having to return with his body.

Spot inspected the grave and I could see he realised what was going on. I've taken him for three walks today because he's subdued. Discussed it with father and we're agreed that if Spot begins to mope father will get a young pup and Spot will say with him and the pup.

Some weird feelings. Pleased I was able to end Pepe's suffering with the injection rather than leaving him to expire naturally.
My Gran died at xmas aged 97 of the same problem, kidney failure, and they left her to starve/dehydrate and I vowed I'd never let that happen to anyone I care about.

It was surreal wrapping him in his favourite bath-towel for burial, expecting him to try and fight his way out as he always did after a bath :D

Sad that I'll miss his mischievous ways but I do have quite a few videos and cheerful photographs if I start moping :)

Oh how awful for you I really am feeling for you right now. We had a dog for 12 years who had addinsons disease and in the end she had to be put to sleep. Its the worst thing that has ever happened to me and I know just what you are going through . In the end I had to speak to a pet bereavement councellor and she helped me through the heartache.

Take care, Sam

Pam Sarky Apr 16th 2007 5:23 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by jandy44 (Post 4650423)
Oh Sam, I do hope everything goes ok for you both,I get in a terrible state when George has to got to hospital, your little babe he,s been through so much,just try to think of it as the last hurdle,I know its not easy,I wish you all the best for tomorrow,Im sure he will be ok :wub:

Thanks, I know he will probably be fine but he is just so tiny I worry about him. Probably cos I dont have kids I treat my dog like my baby :o

brisca Apr 16th 2007 6:01 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 
Aah Sam!
Thinking of you and your boy, and hoping that all goes well for him tomorrow and in the future.
Is this the last part of his treatment?
He sounds like he's been through quite a bit (not to mention your emotions!) so am sending karma to the two of you.

Good luck, and let us know how he's doing, eh?

Sam x

Pam Sarky Apr 16th 2007 6:14 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by brisca (Post 4650832)
Aah Sam!
Thinking of you and your boy, and hoping that all goes well for him tomorrow and in the future.
Is this the last part of his treatment?
He sounds like he's been through quite a bit (not to mention your emotions!) so am sending karma to the two of you.

Good luck, and let us know how he's doing, eh?

Sam x

Thanks Sam. I`ve cooked him some chicken breast so am just about to give him his last meal before he goes on nil by mouth lol. This is (hopefully) the last part of his treatment and then he can get some normallity back in his life.

Sam

jandy44 Apr 16th 2007 6:17 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by IntuitiveNipple (Post 4650530)
Well, Pepe lasted through the weekend although by last night he was too weak to get up.

I had the vet out first thing this morning and he was given an overdose of anaesthetic, took about 5 seconds. He was laid on the grass in the sun with the birds tweeting, was emotionally so much better than taking him into a sterile surgery, and then having to return with his body.

Spot inspected the grave and I could see he realised what was going on. I've taken him for three walks today because he's subdued. Discussed it with father and we're agreed that if Spot begins to mope father will get a young pup and Spot will say with him and the pup.

Some weird feelings. Pleased I was able to end Pepe's suffering with the injection rather than leaving him to expire naturally.
My Gran died at xmas aged 97 of the same problem, kidney failure, and they left her to starve/dehydrate and I vowed I'd never let that happen to anyone I care about.

It was surreal wrapping him in his favourite bath-towel for burial, expecting him to try and fight his way out as he always did after a bath :D

Sad that I'll miss his mischievous ways but I do have quite a few videos and cheerful photographs if I start moping :)

I knew this was impending but I am so sorry,Karma on its way:cry_smile: Im sure hes at peace in doggy heaven,it is better when they can be put to sleep and out of their misery,if only they could do the same for humans,Im so sorry to hear about your Gran,my heart goes out to you.So sorry

brisca Apr 16th 2007 6:25 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 
Oh IN, I'm so sorry to hear about Pepe :(

I've just read your post out to my O/H and I have to admit to a little cry.

It sounds like Pepe had a wonderful life on the farm; so to end his days there in the sunshine so peacefully, was such a beautiful thing for you to do.
Having to make that decision is one of the hardest things in life, but as you say it's far preferable to the abysmal way older people are sometimes treated.
I know that I would much rather have the choice to go gently and peacefully, with people who loved me by my side - and that's what Pepe will have felt today.

You're so right about the photos and videos helping you when you're feeling down. All those memories come flooding back, and you find yourself smiling again.
For anyone who hasn't loved a pet, the grieving process can seem quite a strange concept - but for those of us who have our pets so close in our hearts, it's a necessary process, and doesn't differ all that much from grieving for a human.

When we had to have our first dog put to sleep very suddenly, a friend gave us this poem which helped us enormously. I hope it may also bring you some comfort:

If It Should Be....

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep
Then you must do what must be done
For this last battle can`t be won.

You will be sad, I understand,
Don`t let your grief then stay your hand
For this day, more than all the rest
Your love and friendship stands the test.

We`ve had so many happy years
What is to come can hold no fears.
Would you want me to suffer? So
When the time comes, please let me go.

Take me where my needs they`ll tend
Only stay with me until the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time that you will see
It is a kindness that you do to me
Although my tail it`s last has waved
From pain and suffering I have been saved

Do not grieve it should be you
Who must decide this thing to do.
We`ve been so close, we two these years
Don`t let your heart, hold any tears.

Anonymous.


You do sound very strong and practical IN, but sending you karma on this sad day.
Thinking of you,
Sam.

brisca Apr 16th 2007 7:35 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 
Hi everyone!

I just found this in my archives, and thought it might make you smile :D

LETTER TO MY PETS

Dear Dogs and/or Cats,

The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and they contain my food.
Please note, placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.
The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Beating me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.
I cannot buy anything larger than a king-sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort.
Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other stretched out to the fullest extent possible.
I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.
For the last time, there is not a secret exit from the bathroom. If by some miracle I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge and try to pull the door open. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years; canine or feline attendance is not mandatory.
The proper order is kiss me, then go smell the other dog or cat's (you know what). I cannot stress this enough!
To pacify you, my dear pets, I have posted the following message on our front door:
Rules for Non-Pet owners who visit & like to complain about our pets:
They live here. You don't.
If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. (That's why they call it "fur"niture)
I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.
To you, it's an animal. To me, he/she is an adopted son/daughter who is short, hairy, walks on all fours & doesn't speak clearly.
Dogs and cats are better than kids...they eat less, don't ask for money all the time, are easier to train, usually come when called, never drive your car, don't hang out with drug-using friends, don't smoke or drink, don't worry about having to buy the latest fashions, don't wear your clothes, and don't need a gazillion pounds for college - AND if they get pregnant, you can sell the children!

Pam Sarky Apr 16th 2007 7:43 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 
A firend sent me this poem when my dog Sallie died.

Upon this day I reminisce
With sadness and regret
The loss of my beloved
Special "child" who was my pet.

It's been a year of longing
Wishing you'd return to me ...
For though you left one year ago,
I cannot "set you free".

Though time has made it easier,
To go from day to day ...
No one can understand the
"Special" role your life did play.

For every day you were a part,
Of love and joy and life ...
You had a way that focussed me
And lessened daily strife.

I'd hurry home to see your face,
Behind that window pane;
Where wiggles, hugs and cuddles
Brightened up the worst of days.

And now I sit, with eyes tear filled,
You are not by my side;
And when I see the window,
It is bare and bleak inside.

Emotions, they are raw today,
I'm simply torn apart ...
For hollow, wrenching feelings
Tear apart this very heart.

An emptiness, that's deeper than
The oceans ... fill my soul;
A painful hunger bites my
Inner self beyond control.

For though time healed the daily wounds
I wore upon my sleeve,
I shelter from the world outside
Just what you meant to me.

No children was I blessed to have,
My womb was barren ... yet,
You filled the void my darling one,
My sweet and lovely pet.

To me, you were more human
Than some others I have known ...
You gave such love and tenderness;
T'was deep within your soul.

Now spring is here, and little things
We loved now cause me harm ...
The walks we'd take around the yard
No longer hold their charm.

We're packing just to get away,
And leave this home we've lived ...
For without you to share this with,
I get no joy from it.

I see you as I turn each step,
I watch for you each day ...
Oh little one, I miss you so,
... Much more than words can say.

brisca Apr 16th 2007 8:11 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 
Oh no! I can't cry any more tonight :eek:

Is it just me, or are there more sad posts than usual on here at the moment?? :(

MnM Apr 16th 2007 6:38 pm

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by brisca (Post 4651321)
Hi everyone!

I just found this in my archives, and thought it might make you smile :D

LETTER TO MY PETS

Dear Dogs and/or Cats,

The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and they contain my food.
Please note, placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.
The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Beating me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.
I cannot buy anything larger than a king-sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort.
Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other stretched out to the fullest extent possible.
I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.
For the last time, there is not a secret exit from the bathroom. If by some miracle I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge and try to pull the door open. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years; canine or feline attendance is not mandatory.
The proper order is kiss me, then go smell the other dog or cat's (you know what). I cannot stress this enough!
To pacify you, my dear pets, I have posted the following message on our front door:
Rules for Non-Pet owners who visit & like to complain about our pets:
They live here. You don't.
If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. (That's why they call it "fur"niture)
I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.
To you, it's an animal. To me, he/she is an adopted son/daughter who is short, hairy, walks on all fours & doesn't speak clearly.
Dogs and cats are better than kids...they eat less, don't ask for money all the time, are easier to train, usually come when called, never drive your car, don't hang out with drug-using friends, don't smoke or drink, don't worry about having to buy the latest fashions, don't wear your clothes, and don't need a gazillion pounds for college - AND if they get pregnant, you can sell the children!

That was brilliant!

Thank you for posting and sharing it ;)

Martha

brisca Apr 16th 2007 8:53 pm

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by MnM (Post 4653205)
That was brilliant!

Thank you for posting and sharing it ;)

Martha

You're welcome!
Glad you enjoyed it Martha - I thought maybe a few people could do with being cheered up and having a chuckle :)

It's SO true though, isn't it!!?

You must be off imminently??
Have a very safe journey, and a WONDERFUL time with your family :wub:
Are you going to tell your (very handsome) son that he's got an Ex-Pat fan base of (mainly!) middle aged women!! :lol:

See you soon Martha,
love Sam xx

MnM Apr 16th 2007 11:48 pm

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by brisca (Post 4653687)
You're welcome!
Glad you enjoyed it Martha - I thought maybe a few people could do with being cheered up and having a chuckle :)

It's SO true though, isn't it!!?

You must be off imminently??
Have a very safe journey, and a WONDERFUL time with your family :wub:
Are you going to tell your (very handsome) son that he's got an Ex-Pat fan base of (mainly!) middle aged women!! :lol:

See you soon Martha,
love Sam xx

It really did chear me up Sam, so thanks again. Yesterday was a bad day, to say the least.

We're flying out to the UK on Friday. Michael will be on an intensive motorbike course on the weekend and upto Wednesday, so instead of sitting in a hotel room and waiting for him, I found some really cheap tickets and am flying out to Greece on Saturday night and returning Wednesday morning. Thursday is Michael's test, so I will be there cheering him on ;). That's why my stay in Greece will be so short.

Konstantinos (my son) already knows about his fan club...I will tell him more when I'm there ;)

Gotta get back to work *pout*.....have decided today I will try and play catch up with emails and boring paperwork :curse:

mikelincs Apr 17th 2007 1:42 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by IntuitiveNipple (Post 4650530)
Well, Pepe lasted through the weekend although by last night he was too weak to get up.

I had the vet out first thing this morning and he was given an overdose of anaesthetic, took about 5 seconds. He was laid on the grass in the sun with the birds tweeting, was emotionally so much better than taking him into a sterile surgery, and then having to return with his body.

Spot inspected the grave and I could see he realised what was going on. I've taken him for three walks today because he's subdued. Discussed it with father and we're agreed that if Spot begins to mope father will get a young pup and Spot will say with him and the pup.

Some weird feelings. Pleased I was able to end Pepe's suffering with the injection rather than leaving him to expire naturally.
My Gran died at xmas aged 97 of the same problem, kidney failure, and they left her to starve/dehydrate and I vowed I'd never let that happen to anyone I care about.

It was surreal wrapping him in his favourite bath-towel for burial, expecting him to try and fight his way out as he always did after a bath :D

Sad that I'll miss his mischievous ways but I do have quite a few videos and cheerful photographs if I start moping :)

So sorry to hear about Pepe, but as you say, at least with a dog or other animal, when their quality of life has gone, then at least we can do something about it. I know the feeling as I had dogs for many years in the UK, and it was soo sad when it came time for that final injection.

chrisw Apr 17th 2007 11:32 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by IntuitiveNipple (Post 4650530)
Well, Pepe lasted through the weekend although by last night he was too weak to get up.

I had the vet out first thing this morning and he was given an overdose of anaesthetic, took about 5 seconds. He was laid on the grass in the sun with the birds tweeting, was emotionally so much better than taking him into a sterile surgery, and then having to return with his body.

Spot inspected the grave and I could see he realised what was going on. I've taken him for three walks today because he's subdued. Discussed it with father and we're agreed that if Spot begins to mope father will get a young pup and Spot will say with him and the pup.

Some weird feelings. Pleased I was able to end Pepe's suffering with the injection rather than leaving him to expire naturally.
My Gran died at xmas aged 97 of the same problem, kidney failure, and they left her to starve/dehydrate and I vowed I'd never let that happen to anyone I care about.

It was surreal wrapping him in his favourite bath-towel for burial, expecting him to try and fight his way out as he always did after a bath :D

Sad that I'll miss his mischievous ways but I do have quite a few videos and cheerful photographs if I start moping :)

I am so sorry to hear about Pepe. He sounded like a real little character, and you miss him terribly. I remember when we had to have our GSD Sadie put to sleep. She was our first dog and I broke my heart, but couldn't have seen her suffer it would have been just too cruel. Thinking of you,
Chris XXX :(

chrisw Apr 17th 2007 11:52 am

Re: How did your dog settle in Spain?
 

Originally Posted by sam parky (Post 4650905)
Thanks Sam. I`ve cooked him some chicken breast so am just about to give him his last meal before he goes on nil by mouth lol. This is (hopefully) the last part of his treatment and then he can get some normallity back in his life.

Sam

Hi Sam,
Any news yet today about your little boy? :blink: I do hope everything went ok for him. Please keep us posted when you have the time. And that poem you posted was beautiful. I know that feeling to the letter, from my Sadie.
:wub: Thinking of you and your little boy and sending lots of hugs for a quick and full recovery!:wub:
Chris XXX


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