Saying Goodbye
@Mystic_Dragon (89)
United States
February 27, 2009 12:05pm CST
Life in a wheelchair is not an easy existance. Activities and chores which are second nature normally can be major undertakings for a handicapped person. Having a partner can be a lifesaver.
My partner, best friend, and companion was Bailey. Bailey is a wonderful yellow labrador. Bailey is a trained service dog. Many of the tasks she performs are self taught. She has saved me time and pain over the years.
Unfortunately, because of her age and health, I had to retire her. She now lives with a family with the children she dearly loves. Knowing that she is happy helps, but I miss her terribly.
Have you had to say goodbye to a beloved pet? If so, are there ways to make it easier?
2 people like this
2 responses
@Humbug25 (12540)
•
28 Feb 09
Hi ya Mystic_Dragon
I am so sorry to hear that you are having to say goodbye to your faithful and helpful friend, you must be feeling a great loss! I am glad he has gone to another family that will take care of him and give him the love he clearly deserves in his retirement. I am lucky to have never had to go through such a thing so I am no where near qualified to advise you of how to make the healing process any quicker. All I can say is that I am sure that in time the painful feeling of the loss will get easier as I am sure you know. Take care and keep your chin up!
@Mystic_Dragon (89)
• United States
1 Mar 09
Thanks, Humbug25, for your kind remarks. Bailey, really is happy with her new family and that helps. Training a new helper helps too.
@dragon54u (31634)
• United States
27 Feb 09
I have had to say goodbye many times but the times that tear at me the most is when I had to take my dog to the Vet and help him cross over to God. This happened to me twice. Hector was 18 and unable to walk and half blind and totally deaf. When he couldn't walk one morning I took him in and held him as he left me. Domino was 13 and had a seizure that paralyzed him. Same thing, I held him and talked to him as he left and it was so fast. I still can't listen to the song that was on the radio as I took his poor empty body home to bury.
It's hard to say goodbye. But it helps me to know that the people and pets that I miss will be waiting for me when it's my turn.
I think it was an act of love for you to retire Bailey, and very unselfish. I know it had to hurt. Will you be getting another service dog?
@Mystic_Dragon (89)
• United States
1 Mar 09
Thank you for your response. I am so sorry you had to say goodbye to your friends in such a sad way, but it must be a comfort knowing they are no longer suffering. I currently have a new pal in training.
