[crosscreeksh]

LBM...I so identify with what you are going through. I spent six month with our two dogs going through the same thing. (I'm an RN, so should be TUFF!!) Not! I laid awake so many nights worrying about the dogs, then worrying about how to do the deed itself. Our female was one tough dog when it came to dealing with strangers. I couldn't face the trauma to getting her in our big dually truck and taking her to the vet's office...she HATED to go there for simple stuff and I didn't want hysterics when the vet came here...it took three people and a muzzle for the initial exam here at home! I couldn't face the thought of essentially murdering her by having to have to hold her down for the vet. (Sorry for the graphics). I asked the vet if I could give her some ace before the appointment and it was done that way. When the vet arrived Reno was dozing peacefully/painfree and the vet silently snuck in and gave the injection. It was very stressfree except for the vet and me crying!! What really sucked was when the unrelated male started showing symptoms just two months later and I knew what was coming. Both dogs were only 7+/- years old. I have never lost/PTS a dog in less than mid teens. I loved the GSD's but I don't know if I could face THAT risk again. Apparently GSD's are subject to the problem.
You'll be in my thoughts. Jackie

[Tux61096]

My 14 year old greyhound cross has been battling this for the last year and a half.

Though she is not heavy, the humiliation she showed when not able to get herself out to pee or falling when going was heartbreaking. I cannot say enough good things about this harness, http://wizofpaws.net/helpemup-harness.aspx.

My girl has been living in hers 24/7 for the past 8 months. She really can't walk anywhere unassisted, and can only stand by herself for very short periods. This harness has allowed us to help walk short distances, and allowed her to "relieve" herself in the usual manner with as much or as little assistance as needed. Far superior to the towel or butt only harness, in my opinion.

For now Minnie is a happy, though fairly immobile girl, but I too look fearfully to the day when I must help her one last time.

Best wishes to all of you that have dealt or are dealing with this.

[HydroPHILE]

Our thoughts are with you today, LBM. It's wonderful you had a celebration of life over the weekend.

[LittleblackMorgan]

Our thoughts are with you today, LBM. It's wonderful you had a celebration of life over the weekend.

[lovey1121]

He's been staring into my eyes for a day and I'm not quite sure what he's saying but its not "I'm so content".

I can't stand the frustration in his eyes when he has to drag himself to the door...or when he tries to get over the threshold and falls on his butt and almost flips over...

I know that look...its the "WTF??" look, the "help me" look, the "I am done" look. I've learned not to shy away from it though I dread and fear it, but when that look comes, its always my decision maker.

May your boy have a peaceful crossing. (hugs)