The "Goodbye Room"

[Deb_and_Ed_M]

So this morning, my Aussiepoo Jimmy took the Final Ride to the Vet. Yes, it the ultimate price our hearts pay in pain, for all the years of love we receive from our pets; and I've done it way too many times, simply because I can't imagine a life without dogs in it.

But this time was a little different: we were taken to a non-exam room (which usually made any of my dogs a bit anxious to start with) that was decorated like a living room, with a bookcase holding cute pet-themed doodads, there were dog treats, soft lighting, and plenty of Kleenex. Soft music was playing. Jimmy received a shot that slowly made him lay down and go to sleep - I had plenty of time to pet him and say the things a dog needs to hear as they leave this world - it was just the two of us. After a few minutes, the Dr came back in and gave the final shot. It was so peaceful and easy.

So I'm sorry a bunch of you are probably grabbing for tissues, because we ALL know this pain. I just wanted to share because the Goodbye Room (my name for it) made things just a bit easier....

[ReneeG]

Deb and Ed M wrote:
Thanks for the kind words, everyone - we've all had to do this at some point, I suspect. I'm also not sure how long it will take me to get out of "blind dog" mode (pushing chairs back in place, making sure there's nothing in a walking path, etc).

The good news is that Ben (6 yrs old) apparently understood the empty collar meant that Jimmy wasn't coming home; and last night offered a "play bow" and good romp with the puppy who he had been regarding as a leper until that point....LOL!

That's good news about Ben! A 6 year old can teach a puppy how to respect.

[ReneeG]

Awww, I'm so, so sorry. Yes, we too have been there so many times because of our love for dogs as well. We have two now and will probably have more.

Blessings for Jimmy and now that you have little Augie to take care, or take care of you. Lots of love to you.

[Deb_and_Ed_M]

Thanks for the kind words, everyone - we've all had to do this at some point, I suspect. I'm also not sure how long it will take me to get out of "blind dog" mode (pushing chairs back in place, making sure there's nothing in a walking path, etc).

The good news is that Ben (6 yrs old) apparently understood the empty collar meant that Jimmy wasn't coming home; and last night offered a "play bow" and good romp with the puppy who he had been regarding as a leper until that point....LOL!

[colliehauler]

So sorry to hear about Jimmy Lord I know how hard it is to do. I have had to do it twice this year. You gave Jimmy a wonderful life and what more can a dog ask for.

[ScottG]

FWIW, my dear friend has had to say goodbye to two of his dogs in the last few years and he found a service that comes to his home. They get to pass in the comfort and security of their own home with thier loved ones around them.

[magnusfide]

I’m sorry for your loss. I’m tearing up at the beautiful room description too. Our 15yo old Irish terrier made his last trip in June. They didn’t have a Goodbye room but it was nevertheless a gentle experience.

[Crowe]

Thoughts, prayers and hugs heading your way.

[dturm]

So sorry for your loss. I know you have given him as much as possible in his last few years.

[Lwiddis]

May Jimmy Rest In Peace.

[Deb_and_Ed_M]

RBak wrote:
So sorry, Deb and Ed. This was much better than the cold floor at an emergency vet at midnight. At least my present vet has the same kind of facility for when the time comes. Sending hugs.

Rita and her sheltie and her horse

Thank you, Rita...yes, my worst fear was that Jimmie would REALLY hurt himself when my regular vet wasn't available and I'd have to drive an hour to the emergency vet. He did a good job (for a blind dog) of going up and down our stairs; but the single step up onto our deck surely had him black and blue under that fur, for as many times as he crashed into it 😞

[RBak]

So sorry, Deb and Ed. This was much better than the cold floor at an emergency vet at midnight. At least my present vet has the same kind of facility for when the time comes. Sending hugs.

Rita and her sheltie and her horse

[ScottG]

So sorry to hear of your loss.
I've been in one of these new goodbye rooms too many times as well.

S

[wanderingaimles]

Been there too many times, I keep trying to steel myself, but it never works.
My condolences on your loss.
From another Aussum lover.
from this morning when I changed the oil,,,,,,