Friday, August 5, 2016

Just so you know, I did ask the vet to euthanize Anna yesterday morning. She and I agreed that Anna had become so frail and confused that the extra burden of these seizure-like episodes was just too much stress for her to handle.

Over the course of my life, I have made this decision for many animals, and it never does get easier. I did write about it, once, in a chapter that ended up in Tracing Paradise. In that essay I tell the tale of having to ask my friend Steve to shoot my sick goat. And coincidentally or not? . . . Last night Steve and his wife Angela swept me off to their house for dinner so that we could all raise a glass to dear Anna. It is a privilege to have friends who understand the duty and the pain, but who can also summon the necessary joys of a wake.

3 comments:

Ruth said...

After all, at the end of a life, all we can do is celebrate that life.

Peg said...

I am so sorry. Here's to the life that has come to its end and the love that does not stop.

Carlene said...

Ruth, you have put it so well.
Dawn, I never understood dog ownership til the past 18 months or so...but now I do. I'd be heartbroken as well. She sounds to have been a delightful family pet, and you did what you had to do, for her peace. I am glad you have nearby friends who could be there with you/for you! That is a blessing.
Love to you all...C