Red had a hard morning, he stopped eating, vomited and just lay down and stopped moving. He seemed to me to be in pain. There was also considerable foam in his urine.
I am determined that Red will not suffer a minute more than necessary and watched him closely. We are getting close, I think.
When Red refused his food, I put a scoop of peanut butter on a plate and that seemed to wake him up a bit, he licked the plate clean, slowly and deliberately, and without standing.
I put some peanut butter on another plate with some kibble, and he ate some of that as well, but then abruptly stopped eating and is lying still by my chair. A half-hour later, he stood up and went to the door and I walked him out to the pasture – he was moving very slowly.
I kept him far from the sheep, he stood watching them for several minutes and we went back into the house.
I’ll keep an eye on him, my general sense is that he is failing.
yes Jon, I think you are getting close. the signs are becoming more clear.
My heart is so sad. Thank you for sharing Red with us and I will pray for peace for all of you.
This is so hard – to know when is enough. I’m going through the same situation with my beloved, 18 year old cat who has been by my side for so many years. I wish I had a clear answer on what to do next.
I think he should be outside as much as possible. That is where he was happiest. Maybe put a comfy bed outside for him?
Jon is so tuned into Red—he knows him better than anyone. His many posts about Red have always indicated his sensitivity and perceptions in regard to Red. More than anything, what I have garnered from his posts is Red’s closeness to Jon and jon’s closeness to him. Jon certainly knows where Red needs to be/sleep in his final weeks or days, and my guess is it will be close to him. Their relationship is an intuitive and listening one, loyalty, respect, and love…
Trish, thanks. I think Red should be wherever he is most comfortable, that is inside the house, free from bugs, rams, heat and work, resting..we go out once or twice a day if he’s up to it, he calls the shots..
Sad thoughts and love for this beautiful spirit.
Ah, sending wishes for Red’s peaceful transition — XOXOXO to you & Maria, Fate & Bud, & all who love!
Hugs! Your book helped me when my dog had cancer last year, and I hope the good memories you have with Red will help and knowing you gave him the best life possible.
Red has been a good dog to you and Maria and to many others. It is a hard time for you all right now. He has done his job and now is starting to get ready to transition. You gave him a good life and I hope he has a gentle passing.
Jon, Thank You for sharing your Beautiful Boy with us. Kimberly
What a good boy he has always been. And beautiful to boot! Thank you for sharing him. I love Red too!
Thinking of you all! God bless!
I remember Red when you went to evaluate him and take him home as a pup. I will follow you with these updates and be grateful for the home, care and kindness you give to your animals. My best to all of you as you make beautiful memories of his last days with you.
Actually, Justine, that was Fate, I never knew Red as a pup, I got him when he was five or six…I never saw him before he came..