For anyone with a pet approaching the end

[dinahsmum]

this is very sad, but I think it is what they would say to us.

IF I SHOULD GROW FRAIL

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain does keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done
for this - the last battle -can't be won.

You will be sad I understand
But don't let grief then stay your hand.
For on this day, more than the rest
Your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.

Take me to where my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end.
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must now be you
Who has to decide this thing to do.
We've been so close - we two -these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

(author unknown)

[logoes]

That poem has helped me a number of times. I first read it in the Dobermann Club Year book years ago, and the Vet I went to in Scotland always had copies on hand for those people who had had to make the final decision.

It still chokes me up each time I read it, brings back all my 'gone-befores'

Logoes.

[Elaine]

Because I'm only human,
it's sometimes hard to be
the wise, all knowing creature
that my cat expects of me.

And so I pray for special help,
to somehow understand
the subtle implications,
of each proud miaowed command.

Oh, let me not forget that chairs
were put on earth to shred;
and what I like to call a lap
is actually a cat-bed.

I know it's really lots to ask
but please, oh please, take pity;
and though I'm only human,
make me worthy of my kitty!

...Author Unknown

[truthisouthere]

That's lovely. My boy's holding his own at the mo, seems to have a new lease of life since that visit to the homeopath, but i know i will have to let him go shortly, in his own time, and I will print this off and keep it to hand when that time comes..Until then he's enjoying the garden abd the sunshine...and his 'new lease of life'!