Truthfully, I woke up this morning prepared for the worst, because over the past week, the first glimpses of Snowy coming out of his kennel each morning have been more tear-producing than just about any other sight.
But things seem to be turning out better than I could have hoped. Fifteen hours after Snowy’s last pain pill, he seems to be feeling fairly good. He had some trembling, back arching and stiffness when he first got up, but in the last couple of hours or so, he’s been acting almost like his old self again. (Edited to add: I did feel a few trembles from him just a minute or so ago, so we’ll have to wait to see if those start to turn worse.)
I have a call into the vet to see if we can still use the weaker pain med on him if the need arises but at this point, things are looking (cautiously) optimistic.
I, for one, am just one step away from exhaustion. It’s so very tiring to decide half a dozen times in a week to put your dog to sleep and then change your mind that same number of times. The grieving/rejoicing/grieving/rejoicing cycle is certainly not for the faint of heart.
But he’s still here, still fighting, still kicking. My tired brain and exhausted heart are so very thankful for that.
(An old picture of a certain bathing canine.)
keep on getting better, Snowy!
woof and love and prayers
Oh Becky: I think a decision like this is very draining and takes so much out of you. You want to do what is best for Snowy and his family…but sometimes the borders are blurred as to what IS best? I continue to hope and pray that Snowy improves, even if it’s slowly, but surely!
Snowy is showing everyone that he is a Smith, a true Smith. He is not a quitter. He is strong and determined. You, the Smith family have preached those qualities and lived them and your smallest family member has learned them as well. He is a Smith. And I am proud to know him and his Smith family.
2Cr
12:9
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient
for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.We love you and we are praying for you.Melody
Yeah Snowy!!!!!!!
I can only imagine the exhaustion and worry. Such a hard part of the road. You will know when ALL of you have had more than you can take or need to endure. There is nothing worse than seeing someone we love in pain. I hope the vet gives you good advice but follow your heart also. You may think your heart will only tell you to keep him here regardless, but it won’t. I feel so badly for all of you.