I'm sitting at my computer with my little French Bulldog Maggie at my feet. She's been my constant companion for 11 years. We've just gotten back from our vet's office, one of many trips we've made since September 13th when she was diagnosed with pneumonia. She's been on a roller coaster ride of showing improvement and slipping back down the rabbit hole ever since. This morning she began to slide back quickly. After taking another x-ray our vet told me that there is nothing more we can do. She gently told me that it is her time.
My husband is on his way home from work. This is a decision we'll need to make together. This is a kindness to our little girl we'll both need to undertake together. Even though I understand this all from an intellectual perspective, it's taking an emotional toll I'm ill-equiped to handle. It truly is the hardest thing I've ever had to do.
Update: With all the turmoil and awfulness happening in this world, I'm truly humbled and slightly embarrassed that my diary made the rec list. We were able to spend some beautiful last moments together before we took her back to the vet. I was terrified at the prospect, but I must say it was a very gentle, peaceful and dignified process. Thank you all very much for your support this afternoon. I hope it comes back to each of you 100 fold.
P.S. I just made a donation to our local Humane Society on behalf of Daily Kos in honor of all of you.