CrimsonKarter21

I had to drive straight from school today to the vet's office for my dog, who has aged about 10 years this winter. At first, she had these green boogers coming from her eyes, red eyes, dry skin, a monstrous fat deposit with 6-8 smaller ones, constant pee'ing. Since last week she's been on steroids for her skin and inactiveness, and just last night she could'nt pee anymore. So today we took her in to get checked on, and the vet noticed an internal fat deposit that was blocking her urethra, so I made the decision to put her down with no more suffering.
She died in my arms, I've never felt anything so limp and lifeless in my life, and I never want to. She was like my best friend for 10 years, even when I was backstabbed by everyone else she was there.

When I got home, I threw my bike and all of my gear into my truck and headed off a couple of cities over so I could go take out my frustrations on their hills. It was about 35ºF out, I had no leg or knee warmers, no booties, just my short sleeved jersey, an underarmor, summer shorts, summer shoes and an under armor hat. I've never felt so relieved until when I got back. I couldn't feel my feet, snot was frozen to my face, the undersides of my fingernails were screaming in freezing pain, and my legs were in need of thawing, but I felt like a 200lb weight was lifted off of me.
In fact, I'm still cold three hours after the ride, and I'm pretty sure my body temperature went down some, and I still can't feel the toes on my left foot, and my heels are still numb.

Rest in Peace, Lady.

EdZ

Dying pets suck. When I was 12, I had to choose between playing in the county championship little league game or staying with my dying dog. We won, but when I got home my dog was dead.

Dead Extra #2

I'm very sorry to hear about your dog. That's tough.

bdcheung

i've had to put a dog down before, too. i feel your pain.

jjmolyet

Sorry for your pain, June 5th 2007 marks one year since I went through almost exactly the same thing. her name was Madi and she was as loyal as they come! I rode for 60 mile the next day. The ride has a way of clarifying the mind. I saved a dog from a rescue in Findlay, Ohio named Layla shortly after and now I spoil her rotten. It gets easier. Keep your chin up!

spinnaker

Well I could have done without all the gory details (I just ate).

But I know how you feel I lost two best friends. I was devastated both times (and I was an adult when the second one died). One I found, she was hit by a car. A few years later I got another dog . He got too old and my Dad took him to be put down. I can't imagine having to do that myself. It has been many years and I still miss both of those dogs. They were both so well behaved, they probably behaved better than a lot of humans.

It's amazing how those little critters can find a way into your heart.

pelotonracer

First of all, my condolences.

But riding in shorts + SS near freezing is maybe a little masochistic?

Hipcycler

A hug from one dog lover to another.

blonduathlongrl

Im sorry
I have two dogs, they are always with me. I dont know what I'd do.

Big hug.

robbiedob

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. Pets always hold a special part in out hearts.

interceptor

DOGS ARE THE BEST!!! Always there for you NO MATTER WHAT!!

kokomo61

Riding (or running) can really help you cope - about 10 years ago, I went through an awful period in my job and in my marriage. Lost the job eventually, and went through a separation, but we eventually patched things up.....but during that period, running and riding literally saved my life. When I couldn't think straight, I could still ride.

Sorry about your dog - I've lost too many pets, and it's still hard every time....

A DOG'S PRAYER - Beth Norman Harris

Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land, for you are my god and I am your devoted worshiper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should your life be in danger.

And, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest - and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.

Starclimber

Bummer. Years ago, just as I was heading out to ride, my landlord told me that he'd found my cat dead on the side of the road, hit by a car. Asked me if I wanted to see her, but I said no and went for the most gonzo ride ever, eyes filled with tears, in utter disbelief. I feel your pain. It was a cold bleak day, and I felt nothing.

Sucks.

bbattle

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss, CrimsonKarter21. Our pets can get so close to us; they really are part of the family.

Yes, the solitude of riding can be a big help but don't leave out the rest of your family. They are hurting, too.

donhaller 

Been there, done that. It sucks - I know.
I hope you heal quickly, but never forget the happiness that your dog brought to you.

Get some rest and warm up. Keep posting and riding!!!