General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Pets are 'scared' and look around for their owners in dying moments. [View all]GulfCoast66
(11,949 posts)So I was raised by families from Agricultural and farming backgrounds and spent much of my time on farms. Just never saw pets as family members, probably because so many animals were destined for death, as cruel as it sounds. Pets generally served a purpose like hunting, herding cattle or killing rats.
But, one iron clad law was that it was a sin to allow animals to suffer. Ever. Way too many family members have suffered and died from cancer, most likely because of the chemicals used on the farms. But they knew the score, accepted or not pain medication and generally made the most of their dying days. Animals dont have that luxury. They are just scared. Anyway, in my mind a person that allows an animal to suffer until the end is doing it for themselves, not the poor animal.
So I am not real emotional about pet deaths. I am pragmatic enough to admit we have them for our benefit.
I totally understand those that see their pets as family members and sympathize 100%. No criticism at all. Most of my good Frodo. Just not the way I am.
That said, the idea of taking my wifes cats to the vet to be put down is very distasteful me. They hate going anyway and remember, I think allowing animals to suffer is a sin. Having a stranger come in and poke them with a needle would be better, but they would still be terrified. Not doing that.
My solution? Several years ago I had a shoulder injury. Nothing too bad but when I filled the script the doctor gave me one of the powerful painkillers that are killing too many Americans. No way Im taking that for a shoulder. But I knew then what I was going to do.
When our 18 year old cat is starting to suffer, and it not to far off now, she is quietly going to get one of those pills. Then the few others get taken back to the doctor(never flush them. The drug resides in the sewage). And if I did not have those pills I know vets who would give me a loaded syringe to do it myself. God knows Ive given enough animals shots. Its would not be easy, but taking care of animals is a big responsibility.
I know my experience and background might be an outlier to many on DU. But we all handle these things differently. I wont criticize those who can not stand to be there. And I fully understand not many could do it themselves. I just think it is the most kind way.
Anyway, a rural guys(raised anyway) perspective.
And to the article. I cant see not being there. It seems like the responsible thing to do. But Im not judging.