A goodbye
As anyone who has ever shared their life with a pet knows, there comes a time when a hard decision has to be made. Yesterday was one of those days at our house.
Willard had been a big part of our family for more than 12 years...he was almost a year old when we got him--he'd started life as a show dog, but his handler was moving so he needed a home. And we were so lucky that he moved in with us and became Willard Scott.
Willard spent most of his time with me--and made it abundantly clear that he was MY DOG. Nevertheless, he loved all of his people...
And until darn close to the end was a master at trash-stealing...here he is enjoying every molecule of ice cream left in an already rinsed out container.
We know this had to be done...Willard knew it too, and was ready.
Still, it's gonna be a sniffly and teary weekend around here.
posted by Elizabeth at 9:13 AM
35 Comments:
I'm so sorry to hear about Willard Elizabeth - it such a hard thing to have to deal with and have been there too.
Big hug.
I am so sorry for your loss. Anyone who has lost a pet knows what you are going through.
{{Hug}}
My heart aches for you, E. Love and hugs to you - m
So sorry for the loss of Willard - you'll have wonderfully fond memories of him and may he rest in peace...
I'm so sorry for your loss. Big hugs.
Oh Elizabeth. Hugs for you. . . big. long. hugs.
I know what you mean about just knowing. . . & when he lets you know too. . . but it still hurts.
When I had to say goodbye to Korby. . . someone gave me this poem. . . & you can find it here:
http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
And remember. . . he understands & knows how much you loved him.
xo, Bren
I know. Poor sad old man. I'll miss his enthusiasm.
Sorry to hear your news...It's so sad when you lose a family pet. I'll keep you all in my thoughts at this difficult time.
I am so terribly sorry! Praying that you will soon find joy in your heart.
Oh, Willard was a beautiful dog. I'm sorry to learn of your loss. A few tears are to be expected.
Elizabeth,
I am so sorry to hear about Willard. He looks so cute in his photos...I know he had a wonderful life with you and your family.
Cindy
Oh Elizabeth, I'm so sorry. I know how much it hurts to say goodbye to a pet. What you did for Willard, as hard as it was, it the kindest thing you could have done. It shows how much you cared and loved him. He was so lucky to have you as a mom. I'm so sorry for his loss.
I am so very sorry Elizabeth, Willard was obviously much loved.
It is always difficult to make those kind of decisions. It will be sad but you will have so many happy wonderful memories of him too. HUGS!!
Oh, dear, I'm so very sorry. This is such a difficult decision to make, but one that needs to be done at times. We did this for our Marjorie and as difficult as it was, we knew that we did it out of love, as you did it for dear, sweet Willard.
breaks my heart, I'm so sorry. (((hugs)))
I am so, so sorry. We had to make the same decision a bout three years ago and I still miss Bailey. My prayers will be with you for peace in your heart and mind. It is so hard to say goodbye even when we know its for the best. Know that you and your family are lifted up in our thoughts and prayers.
Jean in Virginia
I'm so sorry, I have walked down that path before, and will again. It is never easy, but it is right.Bless you.
I am so sorry for your loss.
oh, elizabeth...i'm sitting here and am in tears - i can imagine how you must feel now. big, big hugs from over the pond, it's so hard to make such a decision ...hope (believe) willard is now at a good place...
you are in my thoughts,
Julia
...who had to make the same decision about three years ago for her best friend Amsel...
My heart goes out to you. I had to make the same decision for my beloved kitty who was my best friend for 18 years. He's been gone now for about a year and a half, but I still miss him. Blessings to you, and may God bring you comfort at this time. ~Stacey
Elizabeth, my heart hurts for you for your loss. It is always so very difficult to have to make decisions like this. He is a beautiful little man and I know he must have brought you such joy for the years he got to spend with you. Sad face and teary eyed here for you.... Willard will be with you again in Heaven, this I believe.
((((a big hug))))
Becky
*hugs* That's among the hardest things one has to do. My thoughts are with you.
Oh gosh Elizabeth--I've been in the same boat and it really is so sad. Hard to believe we go out and get puppies knowing full well what that leaves in store for us, but of course it is a natural circle of life. hugs to you.
Oh, I'm so sorry Elizabeth. Was Willard a Sealyham? Love your pictures -- he's a beautiful dog!
Elizabeth, I'm so sorry to hear about Willard - he looks like such a sweet puppy. We have an elderly cat who has been slowing down a lot lately. I dread the time we have to make this decision. SuzK
i am so sorry to hear about the loss of your willard scott. hope time will heal your pain.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.He was such a beautiful dog I am sure he wil be missed.
Brenda
Elizabeth - my heart broke when I read your post. Having gone through it in the past I can relate to your loss.
I know the many wonderful memories you have of Willard it help you through your grief.
I am so sorry for your loss. We are so close to our pets that the loss of the daily interaction is hardest of all. Keep the good memories close and hang in there.
Oh Elizabeth, I'm so sorry you lost your little Willard. I know how much we can love our pets.
Elizabeth,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know that you loved Williard greatly and that he brought much joy to your family. With deepest sympathy,
Sharon
Elizabeth... I'm so sorry for the loss of Willard. Take comfort in knowing that he knows how much you love him and that there will always be a place in your heart for him.....they become such a big part of our lives. Take Care, Nurse Payne
My heart goes out to you ..
Big Hug,
Danny
elizabeth.
sorry to hear about your family losing your wonderful dog.
it looks like everyone loved him and he had a good home and was well taken care of.
thanks for sharing those great photos with us.
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