Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Omaha Steve

(109,230 posts)
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:00 PM Nov 2023

We unexpectedly had to put our dog Dug down today


Dug had inoperable cancer. This afternoon he collapsed. He wasn't breathing. He wasn't moving. After about 45 seconds to a minute he started moving and breathing. I carried him to the car to go see the vet. She listened to his heart and lungs. She said she didn't like his breathing. Knowing his end was near, we decided it was time to do the humane thing. I stayed with him through the end.

I posted Dug's story here years ago: https://www.democraticunderground.com/10027865713

OS
89 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
We unexpectedly had to put our dog Dug down today (Original Post) Omaha Steve Nov 2023 OP
Deepest sympathies to you and your family. 50 Shades Of Blue Nov 2023 #1
Deepest condolences The Mouth Nov 2023 #19
It is so very hard saying goodbye to a family member LetMyPeopleVote Nov 2023 #2
So sorry to hear this. MOMFUDSKI Nov 2023 #3
I am so sorry to read your sad news, my dear Omaha Steve . . . CaliforniaPeggy Nov 2023 #4
I'm sorry, Steve. LuckyCharms Nov 2023 #5
I am so sorry for your loss. I have been there. Diamond_Dog Nov 2023 #6
I'm so sorry. onecaliberal Nov 2023 #7
So sorry Omaha Steve montanacowboy Nov 2023 #8
So very sorry... PittBlue Nov 2023 #9
So profoundly sorry for your loss. FalloutShelter Nov 2023 #10
Such a sad time.. Permanut Nov 2023 #11
🕯️ blm Nov 2023 #12
I am so sorry Omaha Steve. Dug will always be in your heart. The memories you two shared together will be with you. debm55 Nov 2023 #13
Dug was a good boy. Eko Nov 2023 #14
I know how rough that is Codifer Nov 2023 #15
Thanks for taking such good care of Dug. ZZenith Nov 2023 #16
Sorry to hear that, Steve. Mr.Bill Nov 2023 #17
Deepest sympathy to you and your family on the loss of Dug💔 virgdem Nov 2023 #18
My heart goes out to you and your family. Dug was certainly a big and loving part of it. Fla Dem Nov 2023 #20
This message was self-deleted by its author niyad Nov 2023 #21
Lady of the Beasts, please take Your little Dug gently home in Your niyad Nov 2023 #22
I'm so very sorry. stage left Nov 2023 #23
Oh dear... 2naSalit Nov 2023 #24
Sorry to see your sad news Marthe48 Nov 2023 #25
Losing my little dog after17 years BigmanPigman Nov 2023 #26
your dog Haru Nov 2023 #27
This is a max suckage moment. OAITW r.2.0 Nov 2023 #28
Saddened. He stayed as long as could. cachukis Nov 2023 #29
I'm so sorry, Steve. Even when we know we're going to lose them soon, it hurts so much to highplainsdem Nov 2023 #30
I'm so sorry, Steve. lapucelle Nov 2023 #31
I am so sorry. MLAA Nov 2023 #32
Deepest sympathy ... Epitaph to a Dog .... George Gordon Byron 1788 - 1824 Hotler Nov 2023 #33
I love Byron's epitaph Laurelin Nov 2023 #49
So sorry, Omaha Steve. BComplex Nov 2023 #34
I am so sorry to read this. Delmette2.0 Nov 2023 #35
I'm so sorry for your loss. mzmolly Nov 2023 #36
Bring the good memories up and savor them. Hermit-The-Prog Nov 2023 #37
So sorry for your sad loss Steve, peacebuzzard Nov 2023 #38
It might be the right thing, but it's never easy Warpy Nov 2023 #39
I am very sorry! DemocraticPatriot Nov 2023 #40
I am sorry PlutosHeart Nov 2023 #41
They are here for us for such a short time Be The Light Nov 2023 #42
(((Dug))) so sorry but your love and kindness Deuxcents Nov 2023 #43
I am so sorry for you I_UndergroundPanther Nov 2023 #44
I know how much it hurts Mick Travis Nov 2023 #45
That is so sad. LoisB Nov 2023 #46
So sorry to hear this Steve. Stuart G Nov 2023 #47
I am so sorry, Steve. I've been there and it never gets easier. Rhiannon12866 Nov 2023 #48
I'm sorry for your loss Laurelin Nov 2023 #50
My heart claudette Nov 2023 #51
Wow I'm very sorry. underpants Nov 2023 #52
Condolences, Steve and family gademocrat7 Nov 2023 #53
I am extremely sorry for this sudden turn of events. sinkingfeeling Nov 2023 #54
So sorry! Especially somewhat unexpected electric_blue68 Nov 2023 #55
My condolences on the crushing loss of your dog, OS. Niagara Nov 2023 #56
It sucks and I'm sorry COL Mustard Nov 2023 #57
I'm so very sorry, Steve. Bumbles Nov 2023 #58
Beautiful story at the link, lucky boy found such a loving forever home to spend his life here. JudyM Nov 2023 #59
Remember what you had. Some things you can't change. Hang in. twodogsbarking Nov 2023 #60
Sending you love....so sorry. May he fly high. Goddessartist Nov 2023 #61
THis is so sad. He knew you were there with him though FoxNewsSucks Nov 2023 #62
Nothing better than a good dog Wild blueberry Nov 2023 #63
We had to put our dog down yesterday, too. Wednesdays Nov 2023 #64
I am sorry for your loss too Omaha Steve Nov 2023 #67
Oh, that's a shock, so sorry, Wednesdays. JudyM Nov 2023 #69
So sorry for your buddy. She will always be in your heart and memories. debm55 Nov 2023 #73
We lost our dog about 10 days ago, same thing. Euthanasia. Saoirse9 Nov 2023 #65
My condolences JudyM Nov 2023 #70
So sorry for your lose. May the memories always remain in your heart, debm55 Nov 2023 #77
Sorry to hear. I know it is always a tough time. Midnight Writer Nov 2023 #66
I'm so sorry OS! You did best by him. CousinIT Nov 2023 #68
I am sorry. murielm99 Nov 2023 #71
So hard to say goodbye... Bundbuster Nov 2023 #72
Dug will live in your heart forever ZonkerHarris Nov 2023 #74
I'm so sorry OS. Losing a fur baby is so hard. Maraya1969 Nov 2023 #75
I bet he had fun being your dog. That's what you need to remember. :) n/t brewens Nov 2023 #76
Hugs Duncanpup Nov 2023 #78
The hits keep coming O Steve AKwannabe Nov 2023 #79
It's so hard to let one's baby go. Condolences to you. nt spooky3 Nov 2023 #80
RIP, Dug. He was a good boy. Ocelot II Nov 2023 #81
We lost our dog yesterday. Grumpy Old Guy Nov 2023 #82
Grumby Old Guy, I am so sorry for you and your wife. Your friend will be in your heart forever. She knew that you loved debm55 Nov 2023 #84
I am sorry for your loss too Omaha Steve Nov 2023 #85
Man, that's rough.. Permanut Nov 2023 #89
So sorry to hear OS. That is the worst feeling ever. My deepest condolences. ED Evolve Dammit Nov 2023 #83
Sorry to hear this bluestarone Nov 2023 #86
I'm so very sorry. cate94 Nov 2023 #87
Godspeed, Dug. What a GOOD friend you are! (((hugs))) samnsara Nov 2023 #88
 

MOMFUDSKI

(7,080 posts)
3. So sorry to hear this.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:03 PM
Nov 2023

You did the right thing. You gave him a good life. Be kind to yourself.

CaliforniaPeggy

(156,620 posts)
4. I am so sorry to read your sad news, my dear Omaha Steve . . .
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:04 PM
Nov 2023

I'm sure he knew you were there and that this eased his crossing.

They sure do leave their pawprints on our hearts.

Diamond_Dog

(40,578 posts)
6. I am so sorry for your loss. I have been there.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:07 PM
Nov 2023

Our sweet fur babies are never with us long enough. Rest in peace, little one. You brought your Dad so much happiness.

PittBlue

(4,795 posts)
9. So very sorry...
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:10 PM
Nov 2023

I enjoyed reading the story of Dug’s rescue. Our pets are family and they give us so much joy. Sending you love and peace.

FalloutShelter

(14,466 posts)
10. So profoundly sorry for your loss.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:10 PM
Nov 2023

That beautiful soul will never leave you. You shared your life, you gave him the rainbow bridge. Love stays.
Sending a hug.

Permanut

(8,391 posts)
11. Such a sad time..
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:24 PM
Nov 2023

It's inevitable with these little guys, but so hard.

I'm sorry for your loss, Omaha Steve

debm55

(60,618 posts)
13. I am so sorry Omaha Steve. Dug will always be in your heart. The memories you two shared together will be with you.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:29 PM
Nov 2023

Last edited Thu Nov 9, 2023, 10:13 PM - Edit history (1)

Embrace the memories and time the both of you had together. Let your grief flow--you lost a companion and a buddy. When the time is right, the memories of Dug might bring you to another buddy. Until then and if then, let your feelings flow. Love ,Debbie

Eko

(9,993 posts)
14. Dug was a good boy.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:29 PM
Nov 2023

I'm glad he was with you for the time he could be.
Keep on keeponing.
Eko.

Codifer

(1,205 posts)
15. I know how rough that is
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:33 PM
Nov 2023

to do.

I hope that Dug will meet up with Underfoot, Ariel and Cody.

They will have fun.

ZZenith

(4,469 posts)
16. Thanks for taking such good care of Dug.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:34 PM
Nov 2023

They deserve our best and I’m sure that’s what you gave him.

Fla Dem

(27,633 posts)
20. My heart goes out to you and your family. Dug was certainly a big and loving part of it.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:52 PM
Nov 2023

Having just lost my cat pal of 17 years 3 weeks ago, I understand the sorrow and sense of loss you are feeling. I expect to see her whenever I come into the house or look at the sofa. But it's getting better and I'm sure it will with you as well.

They stay in our hearts forever.

Response to Omaha Steve (Original post)

niyad

(132,440 posts)
22. Lady of the Beasts, please take Your little Dug gently home in Your
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 09:55 PM
Nov 2023

loving arms, and send peace and comfort to his grieving loved ones.

I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved Dug. Our hearts are with you and Marta.

Marthe48

(23,175 posts)
25. Sorry to see your sad news
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 10:13 PM
Nov 2023

Wish there was no such thing as cancer.

You did the right thing. Be nice to yourself

BigmanPigman

(55,151 posts)
26. Losing my little dog after17 years
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 10:14 PM
Nov 2023

is the worst pain I have ever experienced. I hope you can get through this better than I have.

highplainsdem

(62,147 posts)
30. I'm so sorry, Steve. Even when we know we're going to lose them soon, it hurts so much to
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 10:19 PM
Nov 2023

have to make the decision that's the kindest for them, and nearly unbearable for us.

You gave Dug a great and very loving home - years that must have seemed like heaven on Earth to him.

And I do believe in an afterlife, and reunions with loved ones including pets.

MLAA

(19,745 posts)
32. I am so sorry.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 10:22 PM
Nov 2023

May Dug rest in peace a bit and then soon be getting treats from angels. 💗

Hotler

(13,747 posts)
33. Deepest sympathy ... Epitaph to a Dog .... George Gordon Byron 1788 - 1824
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 10:27 PM
Nov 2023

https://poets.org/poem/epitaph-dog

To mark a friend's remains these stones arise;
I never knew but one—and here he lies.

Laurelin

(897 posts)
49. I love Byron's epitaph
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 06:49 AM
Nov 2023

I read it every time I lose a beloved dog, and all of them were beloved.

BComplex

(9,914 posts)
34. So sorry, Omaha Steve.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 10:51 PM
Nov 2023
Losing a family member is so hard. My sympathies to you and your family.

Delmette2.0

(4,505 posts)
35. I am so sorry to read this.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 11:01 PM
Nov 2023

Dug had a good home with you and your family. Remember the good times.


Hermit-The-Prog

(36,631 posts)
37. Bring the good memories up and savor them.
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 11:11 PM
Nov 2023

It always hurts to lose one.

May your grief be short and fond rembrance be long.

peacebuzzard

(5,870 posts)
38. So sorry for your sad loss Steve,
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 11:12 PM
Nov 2023

I know how painful this is. Dug was just a little angel on earth to share some time with you.I am so very sorry. Thanks for sharing Dug's beautiful story of how he came into your life. And how he left; and how he shared a story of love and hope with his little journey through your life and now you share the moment of life love and loss with your friends. What a beautiful friend and angel on this fragile earth. 💔

Warpy

(114,615 posts)
39. It might be the right thing, but it's never easy
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 11:13 PM
Nov 2023

It sounds like Dug told you he was done and it was time to go.

Letting go is hard, man.

 

DemocraticPatriot

(5,410 posts)
40. I am very sorry!
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 11:19 PM
Nov 2023

I had to do the same thing with my last dog, who was old and had become completely blind in his last days, from cataracts...

The blindness made him more restless--- apparently he was 'searching for the light' and would make the circuit around the house, walking round and round, bumping his head into the wall all the way around...

When it was over, I embraced him and cried.... but it was better to put an end to his pain and frustration.


He will probably visit you in your dreams... savor those moments!

PlutosHeart

(1,445 posts)
41. I am sorry
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 11:23 PM
Nov 2023

Boy oh boy it is has been just an awful pet loss week for so many.
I hope you will be able to remember all of the good and bless you for taking him into your home.

Be The Light

(154 posts)
42. They are here for us for such a short time
Thu Nov 9, 2023, 11:26 PM
Nov 2023

but they love us with all their hearts.

I put my Becca down last year.

Take care of yourself

Deuxcents

(26,918 posts)
43. (((Dug))) so sorry but your love and kindness
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 12:15 AM
Nov 2023

Gave him his best life and he gave you sweet memories. A perfect match 🐾

I_UndergroundPanther

(13,369 posts)
44. I am so sorry for you
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 12:17 AM
Nov 2023

And your pup. Remember he's alive in your heart and memories until you meet again.

Mick Travis

(106 posts)
45. I know how much it hurts
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 12:25 AM
Nov 2023

I had to put my rescue heeler Ellie down a week ago. When she went to bed everything was seemingly normal but she woke up paralyzed. I had only had her for 22 months, and she was dedicated to me more than any human being has ever been. I am still stunned and devastated.

As I always have rescues...Ellie was my ninth dog...you never know when this moment might occur. I have always had medium to large dogs, but I adopted a rescue miniature poodle last week. She is loving and super-smart, but so far continues to chase (no biting) my long-time senior cat, who is putting up with her while wishing she would stop.

My best thoughts to you and Dug. I know how much it hurts.

Rhiannon12866

(255,538 posts)
48. I am so sorry, Steve. I've been there and it never gets easier.
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 04:43 AM
Nov 2023

I know how tough it is, but look back on the life and love that you and Marta gave him - and how lucky he was that he found you.

Laurelin

(897 posts)
50. I'm sorry for your loss
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 06:50 AM
Nov 2023

But glad you had your Dug, and he had you.

Personally I think all dogs go to heaven... not so sure about people.

gademocrat7

(11,940 posts)
53. Condolences, Steve and family
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 08:02 AM
Nov 2023

On the loss of Dug. Our fur babies give us their love and loyalty. Take care.

COL Mustard

(8,222 posts)
57. It sucks and I'm sorry
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 11:23 AM
Nov 2023

Had to do that with one of our cats last month. It's the part about pet ownership that I hate the most. My condolences.

Bumbles

(439 posts)
58. I'm so very sorry, Steve.
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 11:26 AM
Nov 2023

It is always so hard to lose a beloved animal. They ask so little and give so much. I have always felt privileged to be able to be with them at the end.

JudyM

(29,785 posts)
59. Beautiful story at the link, lucky boy found such a loving forever home to spend his life here.
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 11:39 AM
Nov 2023

Wishing you comfort through this painful grief. My heart goes out to you

Wednesdays

(22,603 posts)
64. We had to put our dog down yesterday, too.
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 01:00 PM
Nov 2023

Halloween night, by all appearances Jinx was a completely healthy dog. She was an American Bully, rescue dog from our local shelter, about six years old when we adopted her in 2019.

Best. Dog. Ever. She never snapped at or even growled at anyone or anything, and always greeted strangers with wagging tail. A perpetually happy dog.

Suddenly, last Wednesday she collapsed in a seizure so we took her to the vet. Blood tests and x-rays were normal, but she was shown to have a mammary tumor, which we scheduled surgery for today. Jinx was given an antibiotic and sent home.

Jinx began having seizures again, at first every other day, then every day, then several times a day. By this past Wednesday, she was barely able to stand up. We agreed with the vet that the mammary tumor likely metastasized into a brain tumor. We didn't want her to suffer any further. But it was so hard because it came so suddenly.

Saoirse9

(3,954 posts)
65. We lost our dog about 10 days ago, same thing. Euthanasia.
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 01:21 PM
Nov 2023

He was a rescue with loads of health problems. But we loved him so much. I still keep thinking I see him in his usual spots. He loved to lay on the sofas, at the foot of the bed, and he had two dog beds. He loved luxury and soft blankets. He was a character.

JudyM

(29,785 posts)
70. My condolences
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 02:45 PM
Nov 2023

That is so hard. Glad he enjoyed his life, though, thanks to you. Wishing you a lot of cozy memories like that to help you through your grieving.

Midnight Writer

(25,410 posts)
66. Sorry to hear. I know it is always a tough time.
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 01:55 PM
Nov 2023

Take comfort in knowing you gave him his best possible life, and you did the best thing for him right up to the end.

CousinIT

(12,541 posts)
68. I'm so sorry OS! You did best by him.
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 02:19 PM
Nov 2023

He went loved and was not alone and you didn't let him suffer. That's all you could have done.

Rest in Peace dear Dug

AKwannabe

(6,890 posts)
79. The hits keep coming O Steve
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 04:13 PM
Nov 2023

Better days ahead friend.
DU got your back.

Peace and comfort for you and your angel’s peeps.

Grumpy Old Guy

(4,319 posts)
82. We lost our dog yesterday.
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 05:31 PM
Nov 2023

Sadly, we were on vacation and couldn't be there for her. A dear friend who loves her took care of her for us. We are brokenhearted because we feel that we let her down. We would have given anything to have been there and held her. Life will not be the same without her.

debm55

(60,618 posts)
84. Grumby Old Guy, I am so sorry for you and your wife. Your friend will be in your heart forever. She knew that you loved
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 05:38 PM
Nov 2023

her, You showed her during her life that you loved her, She knew it and loved you also.

Permanut

(8,391 posts)
89. Man, that's rough..
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 09:07 PM
Nov 2023

Life isn't the same, I know. I will always miss Sassafras the chicken stealer, Oscar the runner, Murphy the clown and Joey the all around dork. Now we have Jake, the rescue, who is a Momma''s boy, a 10 pound chihuahua with a 100 pound attitude. They're all different, and all give us such wonderful memories.

I spoiled every one of 'em rotten; that was my part of the deal.

samnsara

(18,767 posts)
88. Godspeed, Dug. What a GOOD friend you are! (((hugs)))
Fri Nov 10, 2023, 07:37 PM
Nov 2023

No matter how old we are or how prepared we are these things never get any easier.
I'm so very sorry.

Latest Discussions»The DU Lounge»We unexpectedly had to pu...