Aster

[Labman]

Well the day finally came. I had our Lab Aster put to sleep this morning. She was 15 last month and hadn't done well all year. Last winter brought out the worst in her arthritis. Then early this year the vet found cancer in her jaw. Still, up until a month ago I think she was enjoying life. She had many good swims this summer. She could no longer walk the mile to the pond, so I drove her. I had a ramp making it easier for her to get in and out of the truck. One of the highlights of the summer was working the dog guide booth at the state fair. As a retired dog guide, people were free to pet her, unlike the working dogs we had.

A few weeks ago, i realized her swollen belly was more than indulging her with extra food. An X-Ray at the vet revealed a huge tumor, likely on her liver. Over the weekend, she quit eating, and we decided it was time. Her partner from her days as a dog guide met me at the vets to say good by to her. It is unusual for the family that raised a puppy to live in the same area and be friends with a guide dog's partner. The family that had her mother also lived in the area, and the 3 families enjoyed many visits together over the last 15 years. Aster is gone, but the friendships will continue.

[BetterDog4U]

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Chip was almost 15.5 when i had to put him down. When they go after that long it can be tough.

It sounds like she had a great, fun and very full life. Remember the good times!

[sandyb]

It's the worst decision you ever have to make isn't it? It sounds like Aster had a good life - it's just never long enough for us. I can certainly sympathise with you, as I expect many others on this site can. RIP Aster.

[saveawolf]

I hope this helps


I just wanted to let you know that I made it home. The journey wasn't an easy one, but it didn't take too long.

Everything is so pretty here, so white, so fresh and new I wish that you could close your eyes and that you could see it too. Please try not to be sad for me. Try to understand God is taking care of me...I'm in the shelter of His hands.

Here there is no sadness, no sorrow, and no pain. Here there is no crying and I'll never hurt again. Here it is so peaceful when all the angels sing. I really have to go for now... I've just got to try my wings.

[Furbilator]

My sympathy goes out to you in this difficult time. It is one of the hardest decisions of your life but it was the best and kindest decision for Aster. May she rest in peace.

With affection,
Furbs and Cassie

[elsasmom]

My thoughts are with you; this is truly the hardest thing to do as well as the kindest thing to do. I promise each new fur baby that I will never let them suffer when there is no more hope of recovery. The promise helps me do what I need to do when the time comes. Blessings

[Jr_K9_Expert]

I'm really sorry Labman. I'm sure that it was a hard decision, but it seems that you knew when it was time... Its good to keep an attitude like yours, just remembering the good times.

[hcromley]

sorry u had to make that decision i know its hard. remember the good and how much joy she brought. im sure her memory will live on in ur home

[cockermom93]

I send my condolances. I am sorry you are going through this but is sounds like you and Aster had a great time together and she had a good long life. Again I send my sympothy.

[Shells_k]

RIP Astor.

http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd13/brendagoodmum/sympathy/sym5.jpg

[lucysnewmum]

so sorry for your loss Labman...its a tough call but one we all face at some point or another...what a great age he was and by the sounds of it what a great life he had. console yourself that you did the best you could for him and always carry fond thoughts in your heart...then he will always be alive to you... puppy hugs from across the ocean

[dogforever]

ia am very sorry for your loss.it is really very bad news.

[eeyore]

So sorry for your loss, sounds like you had a good life together just hold on to them memories and good times and she will always be with you.
((((HUGS))))

Sarah x

[k9mania]

So very sorry for your loss. It appears that you knew when the time was right and how to handle the situation for all those who loved Aster. You are right the memories will live on in your heart and carry you through these days.