Saying Goodbye to a Pet

I wish I was a wiser woman. Saying goodbye has never been harder. I have seen changes in my dog Max since last year with what looked like Sundowner syndrome, very similar to what adults get. Gabapentin has helped with those symptoms along with Carprofen for pain. But Max is slowly approaching 17 and I see our days together numbered. I had hoped Max would give me a sign, he is still eating, drinking, going for very short walks and getting outside to go to the bathroom. My floors are a patchwork collage of old towels and sheets catching those midnight accidents. We are both struggling to achieve quality in his life. It just isn't something that you think about the day you see this adorable bouncy dog at the shelter barking for attention. I remember walking all the dogs available for adoption 15 years ago. He was the only one who put his head in my lap and gave me a look with those sad eyes as if to say take me home I'm all yours. I had just started taking photos when I captured this image of Max 12 years ago. What a handsome best friend. 

10 Ways You Know when to Say Goodbye to your Pet