Sorry to report, I had to say goodbye to Moose on July 16th. He’d been doing really well, then over the first 2 weeks of July his control over his hind end became less and less. We changed his acupuncture and his oral meds but in the span of a weekend he went from being able to walk on his own to not even being able to stand up on his own. Another trip back to the vet and x-rays showed more spondylosis and narrowing of disc spaces in multiple vertebrae, and by the next morning he had completely lost sensation and function from the bottom of his rib cage back. The changes in meds and acupuncture weren’t enough and the pressure on his spinal cord became too much. We discussed spinal surgery for him, but with him already missing the front leg we decided it wasn’t fair for any of us to go through another major surgery that may not be successful or where he may not be able to do the rehab. We discussed carts and the logistics of having a geriatric 115 lb one-legged dog in a cart, but he had lost bladder control and battling bladder expression, future urinary tract infections, catheters, and bed sores wouldn’t be fair to a dog that spent the majority of his life following me around and going places with me.
The kicker was that on the x-rays his lungs showed no evidence of cancer mets, though I know that doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t there. When this all started I never thought paralysis would be the reason we had to say goodbye. I did, however, get to celebrate a full 9 years of having him and 8 months after his cancer diagnosis, which was more than I had hoped for. If I had to do it all again I’m not sure that I would do anything different – I knew he wouldn’t live forever but now I just miss my friend. I know with time the sadness will lessen and there will be other dogs, but there will never be another Moose.
I am so sorry for the loss of Moose!! I know how hard it can be and my heart goes out to you. Take comfort in knowing that you did everything you could for Moose and that you gave him a wonderful home, which he will be ever so greatful for. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I’m sorry to read about your pup’s journey ending 🙁 Many hugs to you while you heal from missing your Moose…
R.I.P. Moose..
Tracy, Maggie’s Mom
Moose was blessed to have you folks. May he run free of pain and rest in peace with all the Tripawd heroes at the Rainbow Bridge.
I’m so sorry to hear of Moose’s passing. He was a strong boy, and I know he fought a hard battle. My thoughts are with you.
Awww, run free Moose! You are a true Tripawd Warrior and we will never furget you! Say hey to Jerry for us, OK?
xoxox to your peeps. Hang in there and thanks for loving Moose!
Codie Rae and the OP +1
I’m so sorry to hear this sad news, my heart goes out to you. It’s heartbreaking to say goodbye and I know Moose’s loss will be felt heavily. I hope you can take comfort in all of the great memories you shared, and the dignity and love you gave him all the way through to his last moments. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey. May his spirit stay in your heart forever. {{{hugs}}}
Jerry has such a way with words. Well said, and felt by all of us.
It is so hard to lose such a good friend. We feel for you and can only hope that all of your wonderful memories will get you through this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
I’m so sorry that it was Moose’s time to journey to Rainbow Bridge. Godspeed Moose. Run free with all of the hero angels that have gone before you.
Hugs and chocolate labby kisses,
Ellen and Charley
I’m so sorry to read of Moose’s loss. I know he leaves a big paw-print shaped hole in your heart, but he will always be with you in spirit.
Jackie, Angel Abby’s mom
I am so sorry to hear that Moose’s time had come. You did everything you could for him and he knew that he was loved.
I know your heart must be breaking. I hope, with time, you will be able to remember the wonderful, special life you had together.
Karen and Spirit Magnum