Last week I had to say goodbye to our 17-year-old Cairn Terrier Lady.
She had been a faithful friend and family member and was cherished by all of us. She was older than all the children and they had not known a time without her.
I was reminded how strong our relationships are with our pets and the immense trust that is placed in veterinary surgeons, especially in these end of life decisions.
Lady arrived into our home when she was ten weeks old. She instantly took over and made sure the other dogs knew she was number one!
She was with us when we set up our practice on Bourne Road.
She produced milk when our first child was born and she used to embarrass me in later life when she would want to take on any dog we met while on walks.
Lady had developed liver problems five years ago but with permanent medication had managed well.
It was only these last few months that she a slowed down and that we knew her time with us was limited.
She was getting increasingly deaf and was losing her sight.
She had episodes when she didn’t know where she was but these soon passed while we comforted her.
I did not want to let her go while she was still eating well and was getting quality time with us.
This is the time when it is difficult to know when it is right to put an animal to sleep.
Obviously an animal must not be allowed to suffer but this can be a very grey area.
Lady had a huge drive for life and I would not make the decision to put her to sleep until I was absolutely sure.
We kept her comfortable but over the weeks she slowly got worse.
Ultimately she suddenly deteriorated in just a few hours and after she had a small fit I knew I had to put her to sleep.
When I put an animal to sleep it is always important that things go smoothly and without distress.
It was one of the hardest things I have had to do while upset myself and in front of my weeping wife and five children. She passed away peacefully on my wife’s lap.
We now have her ashes.
One of my sons read the poem.
Do not stand at my grave and weep;
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain
When you awaken in the morning’ s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
