Pirate's Story

chipj29 · 10-27-2009, 07:30 AM

At just a year old, our youngest dog Pirate was run over by a car. He had serious leg injuries, but it was nothing that surgery couldn't fix. He had pins in his left ankle, and screws in his right knee. He had some painful days, but overall it was nothing he couldn't get through. We knew the pain would always be there, so we always kept a close eye on him. As you can see in my avatar pic, he was the trouble-maker in the house. He was quite a character.

A couple weeks ago, he was running around the yard and collided with one of our other dogs. His right hip, near the tail, swelled up, and he wouldn't put any weight on his leg. A trip to the vet told us that there wasn't really anything we could do other than to let him rest. Last week, we started to worry. His hip area was really swollen, and he was in a lot of pain. We got him throuth that night, and after spending the previous days just laying down, the next morning he was up and about, with his tail wagging. It looked like Pirate was back!
Unfortunately over the weekend he was in even more pain, and he could barely get out of his doggie bed. Yesterday my wife took him to the vet, and we both knew in our hearts what the outcome was going to be. We are very sad, and we will certainly miss him. But he is without pain now. Pirate was just over 4 years old.
The first picture shows his personality, he was a HAM!! The second picture is the last one I took of him Sunday night. The kitties knew he was hurting and were trying to comfort him.

Welchmoore · 10-27-2009, 07:51 AM

I'm so sorry to hear about your dog, as a dog owner I know how you feel. We have a 12 year old german shepherd and have repaired knees, a hip, thyroid issues and the list goes on and on. We would do anything for our dog and she would walk thru fire if needed for us. I dread the day when her time comes. They are such loyal and loving friends and give way more than they ask for in return. It sounds like you did everything you could for Pirate.

SIKSUKR · 10-27-2009, 08:09 AM

Oh Chip, I thought this was going to be a happy story. So very sorry about losing Pirate. After reading this, I just found out how close to the surface my loss of putting down my Cebe 2 years ago was. Cebe was also run over by a car less than a year old and it looked all but over. Somehow she managed to live for 10 years. I need a kleenex now. So sorry.

Pineedles · 10-27-2009, 09:29 AM

Chip you did the right thing. I see too many pet owners struggle with that decision and opt not let their charge sleep peacefully. So sorry.

BroadHopper · 10-27-2009, 09:37 AM

it is difficult to put down such a young dog. Rest assure he is in peace now and not suffering from terrible pain.

I put Bette away last month. She had severe hip athiritis and reumatoid cancer. She was 12 years old. I kept her comfortable as long as I could. She loves her daily treat of Yoghound. When she started having trouble going out to do her duty. It was time. I can see Bette and Pirate chasing each other in doggie heaven.

mcdude · 10-27-2009, 09:43 AM

It was one of the most difficult things I ever did when I had to put my friend down a few years back. We know how you feel. It ain't easy. My condolences. McD

eillac@dow · 10-27-2009, 11:12 AM

Chip, I am so sorry for your loss. It is just so sad.

When I started reading this, I too, thought it was going to be a story with a happy ending. I was so shocked as I continued reading. Pirate sounds like he lived a good life with you in his 4 years. Sounds like he was pretty well taken care of. Making the decision you did, just proves what one will do for someone they love. Pirate is at peace.

Take care.
eillac@dow

WinnDixie · 10-27-2009, 01:22 PM

I will add my condolences, also. It takes me back four years ago when our sheltie got sick from what they feel was pancreatitis. It came on fast, and we spent two days trying everything...our vet during the day, the emergency place overnight...and finally had to face the heartbreak the third day, and say goodbye. You did the right and brave thing, but it is beyond hard,and so human to hold as long as possible. It is terrible pain. We were subsequently blessed with a new sheltie...a gift of God, we feel...and she has taken over the job of "life brightener". I will wish for you the same fortune, somewhere down the road. One thing is for sure: somewhere out there there is an eager heart on four paws waiting to love you.

chipj29 · 10-27-2009, 01:34 PM

Firstly, sorry for the giant pic. When I posted it, I tried to shrink it, but got frustrated and gave up.

More importantly, thank you all for the nice words. We still have 2 more dalmatians in the family, Carrie (8) and Ace (6). And of course we still have 3 cats. Marshmellow is about 10, Boo Boo is about 7, and Quinny is a little more than a year old. In the giant picture, Boo Boo is on the pillow, and Quinny is snuggled up against Pirate. She seemed to want to hug him where he was hurting. Almost like she knew.

Thanks again.
Chip

brk-lnt · 10-27-2009, 05:40 PM

Sorry to hear about that. We just lost one of our Boxers, just shy of her 12th birthday, but had another a few years back that didn't quite make it to 5, so I can relate to what you went through.

It doesn't matter if they live to 4 or 40, it never seems long enough...

tis · 10-27-2009, 05:48 PM

I am so sorry too, I can't see to type through the blur in my eyes. It is so hard to lose a pet, they are like our kids.

Argie's Wife · 10-27-2009, 10:26 PM

Chip - I don't have the words to night to convey my sympathy to you and your family on the loss of Pirate. Your love for him was manifested in your post. I'm sure he will be missed and was more than loved during his time here on earth.

Hugs to you.

dpg · 10-28-2009, 06:15 AM

Chip - I'm also sorry to hear about your pal. It's a beautiful picture with your cat, sad. What's worse is watching them suffer just for our peace of mind that their still with us. Although a difficult decision he must of been really suffering.

jr616 · 10-28-2009, 02:48 PM

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

DRH · 10-28-2009, 06:25 PM

Very sorry, Chip. The decision you had to make is one of the hardest we pet owners will ever have to make, but you did the right thing ... for his sake. We've been there, and we know how difficult it is.

SteveA · 10-28-2009, 06:40 PM

Chip,

We are very sorry for you and your family. All of us "pet people" know that someday we will be responsible to make the tough decisions about our pets.

I can remember so clearly how badly we felt when when we had to make those decisions.

Island Life · 10-28-2009, 07:26 PM

Thanks for the therapeutic cry. I still tear up when I think of putting our two dear dogs down 4 and 6 years ago, respectively. So sorry you and your family are going through this.

dpg · 10-29-2009, 06:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jr616

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

All I can say is oh my god!!!! Kleenex please...

chipj29 · 10-29-2009, 06:27 AM

Thanks all.
It really wasn't a difficult decision believe it or not. We saw the pain that he was in. Once the vet told us that there was nothing we could do, we knew what we had to do. The decision...not hard. Dealing with it however is very hard. The feeling that we will never have him home again takes a while to settle in.

I was OK the other day until I got home from work. I saw the invoice from the vet, which had the words "euthanasia" and "cremation" next to the name "Pirate". And it all came back.

SIKSUKR · 10-30-2009, 10:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chipj29

Thanks all.
I was OK the other day until I got home from work. I saw the invoice from the vet, which had the words "euthanasia" and "cremation" next to the name "Pirate". And it all came back.

Been 2 years for me and it all came back like it was yesterday with this thread Chip.I also did the cremation and took her box off the mantle last night to reflect.Very emotional still.

WinnDixie · 10-30-2009, 11:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chipj29

I was OK the other day until I got home from work. I saw the invoice from the vet, which had the words "euthanasia" and "cremation" next to the name "Pirate". And it all came back.

Ouch! Wish there was a better way for vets to handle that, but not sure how. When we went through it I wanted to pay right then, as I didn't want to have to go back at all, though they were very good to us. While I was writing the check a lady, with her own little dog, came up to me and quietly said "God bless you". I definitely don't "wear my religion on my sleeve", but I was very surprised by how kind and comforting that simple gesture was. I wish the same to you.

SIKSUKR · 10-30-2009, 01:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WinnDixie

While I was writing the check a lady, with her own little dog, came up to me and quietly said "God bless you".

We had the same experience. Walking out of the room with wet eyes, 2 customers looked right at us and knew and sadly sad "so sorry".

Ropetow · 10-31-2009, 09:33 PM

Chip: I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are a major part of our lives and our families. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.

jr616 · 11-02-2009, 01:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SIKSUKR

We had the same experience. Walking out of the room with wet eyes, 2 customers looked right at us and knew and sadly sad "so sorry".

Our vet was lovely enough to let my husband pay while I was outside. We opted for burial on our land and a few days after received a beautiful Orchid plant from Flowersdirect courtesy of the vet with their sympathies. Not sure if they do this for everyone but like that they thought of us as more than just clients.

The orchid blooms all year in my bathroom (the only place the cats won't get to it.)

I think sometimes we forget that Vets are "Pet" people too!

10-27-2009, 07:30 AM	#1
chipj29 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Bow Posts: 1,874 Thanks: 521 Thanked 308 Times in 162 Posts	Pirate's Story At just a year old, our youngest dog Pirate was run over by a car. He had serious leg injuries, but it was nothing that surgery couldn't fix. He had pins in his left ankle, and screws in his right knee. He had some painful days, but overall it was nothing he couldn't get through. We knew the pain would always be there, so we always kept a close eye on him. As you can see in my avatar pic, he was the trouble-maker in the house. He was quite a character. A couple weeks ago, he was running around the yard and collided with one of our other dogs. His right hip, near the tail, swelled up, and he wouldn't put any weight on his leg. A trip to the vet told us that there wasn't really anything we could do other than to let him rest. Last week, we started to worry. His hip area was really swollen, and he was in a lot of pain. We got him throuth that night, and after spending the previous days just laying down, the next morning he was up and about, with his tail wagging. It looked like Pirate was back! Unfortunately over the weekend he was in even more pain, and he could barely get out of his doggie bed. Yesterday my wife took him to the vet, and we both knew in our hearts what the outcome was going to be. We are very sad, and we will certainly miss him. But he is without pain now. Pirate was just over 4 years old. The first picture shows his personality, he was a HAM!! The second picture is the last one I took of him Sunday night. The kitties knew he was hurting and were trying to comfort him. Attached Images __________________ Getting ready for winter!

10-27-2009, 08:09 AM	#3
SIKSUKR Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 5,075 Thanks: 215 Thanked 903 Times in 509 Posts	Oh Chip, I thought this was going to be a happy story. So very sorry about losing Pirate. After reading this, I just found out how close to the surface my loss of putting down my Cebe 2 years ago was. Cebe was also run over by a car less than a year old and it looked all but over. Somehow she managed to live for 10 years. I need a kleenex now. So sorry. __________________ SIKSUKR

10-27-2009, 09:37 AM	#5
BroadHopper Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Laconia NH Posts: 5,562 Thanks: 3,180 Thanked 1,098 Times in 791 Posts	Condolence to the family it is difficult to put down such a young dog. Rest assure he is in peace now and not suffering from terrible pain. I put Bette away last month. She had severe hip athiritis and reumatoid cancer. She was 12 years old. I kept her comfortable as long as I could. She loves her daily treat of Yoghound. When she started having trouble going out to do her duty. It was time. I can see Bette and Pirate chasing each other in doggie heaven. __________________ Someday may never be an actual day.

10-27-2009, 09:43 AM	#6
mcdude Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Rock Haven Lake - West Newfield, ME Posts: 5,367 Thanks: 374 Thanked 1,054 Times in 494 Posts	It was one of the most difficult things I ever did when I had to put my friend down a few years back. We know how you feel. It ain't easy. My condolences. McD __________________

10-27-2009, 01:34 PM	#9
chipj29 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Bow Posts: 1,874 Thanks: 521 Thanked 308 Times in 162 Posts	Firstly, sorry for the giant pic. When I posted it, I tried to shrink it, but got frustrated and gave up. More importantly, thank you all for the nice words. We still have 2 more dalmatians in the family, Carrie (8) and Ace (6). And of course we still have 3 cats. Marshmellow is about 10, Boo Boo is about 7, and Quinny is a little more than a year old. In the giant picture, Boo Boo is on the pillow, and Quinny is snuggled up against Pirate. She seemed to want to hug him where he was hurting. Almost like she knew. Thanks again. Chip __________________ Getting ready for winter!

10-27-2009, 07:51 AM	#2
Welchmoore Junior Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Masschusetts Posts: 5 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts	I'm so sorry to hear about your dog, as a dog owner I know how you feel. We have a 12 year old german shepherd and have repaired knees, a hip, thyroid issues and the list goes on and on. We would do anything for our dog and she would walk thru fire if needed for us. I dread the day when her time comes. They are such loyal and loving friends and give way more than they ask for in return. It sounds like you did everything you could for Pirate.

10-27-2009, 09:29 AM	#4
Pineedles Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Moultonborough & CT Posts: 2,541 Thanks: 1,071 Thanked 667 Times in 366 Posts	Chip you did the right thing. I see too many pet owners struggle with that decision and opt not let their charge sleep peacefully. So sorry.

10-27-2009, 11:12 AM	#7
eillac@dow Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Dow Island & Weymouth, MA Posts: 365 Thanks: 295 Thanked 94 Times in 48 Posts	Chip, I am so sorry for your loss. It is just so sad. When I started reading this, I too, thought it was going to be a story with a happy ending. I was so shocked as I continued reading. Pirate sounds like he lived a good life with you in his 4 years. Sounds like he was pretty well taken care of. Making the decision you did, just proves what one will do for someone they love. Pirate is at peace. Take care. eillac@dow

10-27-2009, 01:22 PM	#8
WinnDixie Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Huntsville, AL Posts: 239 Thanks: 44 Thanked 75 Times in 17 Posts	I will add my condolences, also. It takes me back four years ago when our sheltie got sick from what they feel was pancreatitis. It came on fast, and we spent two days trying everything...our vet during the day, the emergency place overnight...and finally had to face the heartbreak the third day, and say goodbye. You did the right and brave thing, but it is beyond hard,and so human to hold as long as possible. It is terrible pain. We were subsequently blessed with a new sheltie...a gift of God, we feel...and she has taken over the job of "life brightener". I will wish for you the same fortune, somewhere down the road. One thing is for sure: somewhere out there there is an eager heart on four paws waiting to love you.

10-27-2009, 05:40 PM	#10
brk-lnt Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: South Down Shores Posts: 1,944 Thanks: 543 Thanked 570 Times in 335 Posts	Sorry to hear about that. We just lost one of our Boxers, just shy of her 12th birthday, but had another a few years back that didn't quite make it to 5, so I can relate to what you went through. It doesn't matter if they live to 4 or 40, it never seems long enough... __________________ [insert witty phrase here]

10-27-2009, 05:48 PM	#11
tis Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 6,654 Thanks: 747 Thanked 1,440 Times in 1,001 Posts	I am so sorry too, I can't see to type through the blur in my eyes. It is so hard to lose a pet, they are like our kids.

10-27-2009, 10:26 PM	#12
Argie's Wife Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Alton Posts: 1,908 Blog Entries: 1 Thanks: 533 Thanked 579 Times in 260 Posts	Chip - I don't have the words to night to convey my sympathy to you and your family on the loss of Pirate. Your love for him was manifested in your post. I'm sure he will be missed and was more than loved during his time here on earth. Hugs to you.

10-28-2009, 06:15 AM	#13
dpg Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 2,589 Thanks: 150 Thanked 229 Times in 166 Posts	Chip - I'm also sorry to hear about your pal. It's a beautiful picture with your cat, sad. What's worse is watching them suffer just for our peace of mind that their still with us. Although a difficult decision he must of been really suffering.

10-28-2009, 02:48 PM	#14
jr616 Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Posts: 87 Thanks: 18 Thanked 18 Times in 11 Posts	Pirate Will be waiting for you . . . Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... Author unknown...

The Following 4 Users Say Thank You to jr616 For This Useful Post:
CGI3 (10-29-2009), dpg (10-29-2009), robmac (11-03-2009), trfour (10-28-2009)

10-28-2009, 06:25 PM	#15
DRH Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Meredith, NH Posts: 1,686 Thanks: 1,198 Thanked 675 Times in 178 Posts	Pirate Very sorry, Chip. The decision you had to make is one of the hardest we pet owners will ever have to make, but you did the right thing ... for his sake. We've been there, and we know how difficult it is. __________________ DRH

10-28-2009, 06:40 PM	#16
SteveA Deceased Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Gilford, NH Posts: 2,311 Thanks: 1,070 Thanked 2,054 Times in 497 Posts	Pirate Chip, We are very sorry for you and your family. All of us "pet people" know that someday we will be responsible to make the tough decisions about our pets. I can remember so clearly how badly we felt when when we had to make those decisions. __________________ "Before you criticize someone, walk a mile in his shoes. That way, if he gets angry he'll be a mile away and barefoot!" unknown

10-28-2009, 07:26 PM	#17
Island Life Senior Member Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 273 Thanks: 12 Thanked 6 Times in 2 Posts	Thanks for the therapeutic cry. I still tear up when I think of putting our two dear dogs down 4 and 6 years ago, respectively. So sorry you and your family are going through this. __________________ Island Life the way my grandparents' grandparents enjoyed it - but with a faster boat!!!

10-29-2009, 06:27 AM	#19
chipj29 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Bow Posts: 1,874 Thanks: 521 Thanked 308 Times in 162 Posts	Thanks all. It really wasn't a difficult decision believe it or not. We saw the pain that he was in. Once the vet told us that there was nothing we could do, we knew what we had to do. The decision...not hard. Dealing with it however is very hard. The feeling that we will never have him home again takes a while to settle in. I was OK the other day until I got home from work. I saw the invoice from the vet, which had the words "euthanasia" and "cremation" next to the name "Pirate". And it all came back. __________________ Getting ready for winter!

10-31-2009, 09:33 PM	#23
Ropetow Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Rochester, NH / Bartlett, NH Posts: 322 Thanks: 228 Thanked 33 Times in 13 Posts	Chip: I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are a major part of our lives and our families. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.