RIP Mr Jackson

[Ray]

So sorry. It's an aspect of pet ownership that we try not to think about...

[Dollythehun]

Everyone, thank you for your condolences, it means a lot to know someone cares, and has perhaps been there. This will be a long post, so if you don’t have time, stop here.

In early summer, Jack went in for his annual checkup. His teeth needed cleaning and the Vet thought he might have a cavity or an absorption lesion (common in cats). I had put it off a year because of the cost (our vet owns the premier clinic in our area, he is wonderful, and I have a strong relationship with him, but he is not cheap).

We knew he had kidney issues but, his numbers were actually a little better. In retrospect, we both noticed he didn’t seem to bounce back from the cleaning. In spite of doting on him, he continued to decline. He gave up most of his bad habits in favor of sleeping somewhere warm. I noticed he was pretty dehydrated and made sure to add extra water to his food and keep several clean bowls and fountains down. We bought him a sweater, which he hated. I noticed if I would push him out of the way with my bare foot, he would sometimes fall over and cry at me when I picked him up. He was always grumpy so, we didn’t think too much of each symptom as a standalone.

However, our line in the sand was IV fluids. We had gone that route with our beloved girl BC and it just made her more miserable. I was planning on taking Jack into the clinic next week but, then I had another sleepless night and this time I contacted an OB member to “chat.” We talked about Jack a bit and the next morning I talked to a good friend who is a dog trainer and whose daughter is heavily involved in PAWS Chicago. They both suggested it was “time.” The clincher was my friend also said the climate of the household is important, how was Jack affecting the other dynamics with us and the other kids. Yesterday morning I called the vet. Within an couple of hours he came out and very gently, and sweetly, sat on the floor while I held Jack and started the procedure. Jack just went home from my arms.

Like me, Jack had a thing for shoes. He loved my shoes and often slept with on or “in” them. So, my prized Nike box became his resting spot. Dr. suggested that Nate come in to say goodbye. (We’ve had this work both ways). Nate rolled on his back by the box (it’s his way of being cute and getting attention), then he nuzzled the box and Jack’s fur (by then I had lost it completely). He could see me crying and was seemingly torn between comforting me and getting Jack’s attention. Then he gently nipped Jack’s flank a couple times (he liked to torment him to play)…after a few minutes, he seemed to understand.

Thanks for reading. I wouldn’t share this with everyone in my physical circle (I’m the strong one people come to). But, some of you have become special to me and I wanted to share this. Like the song says “Life is short, I want to live it well.” Jack did everything he was created to do and more. RIP Mr. Jackson.

[Pattywack]

I am so very sorry, it is always difficult and sad. Soon you will remember him and smile.

[DeaC]

I'm so very sorry. Your tribute to Jack was how we all feel about our furkids. I think you were very brave to help him pass in the home,something I've yet not been able to do and had many opportunities.But if you love them,you let them go. But the bond is never broken.Peace.

[Leafmite]

I just saw this and I am so very sorry. Poor little kitty.
Reading this makes me just want to lay down and hug my dogs for a while...which is what I am going to do.

[katrina]

It sounds like it was a very peaceful passing for Jack and that is a gift that you have given him. No more pain or suffering and now he is doing his little kitty things w/the others that have passed prior. We'll see them again...I believe it to my core. A big hug being sent your way.

[Dollythehun]

Thanks, all. Thus was waaaay harder than I thought it would be. I am a "suck it up" kind of girl but, I have hardly been able to stop sobbing. When he was well, he had so many bad habits (from his previous owners) that I often thought about strangling him 😉...but now, I miss him like crazy.

[Arizona Jeanie]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I lost my best old dog in March, it's so sad. I am a believer in hospice care toward the end--for them and for us. There is a sad point where making them comfortable and letting go is best. So, my Bailey's ashes are still on the mantel, and I can still cry about losing her.
Oh, the rest of the story--it's taken two little rescue pups to cheer me up, that part is great fun.
Carry on.

[Dollythehun]

Mulling that thought over now. Nathan is grieving too, he's obviously sad. Still...

[Arizona Jeanie]

You can't replace the one you've lost, but the mischief can continue.